Superstar Nora Aunor Passes Away at 71
Table of Contents
- Nora Aunor’s Passing
- Tributes from Family and Friends
- Final Film Appearances and Political Endeavors
- Health Struggles and Personal Reflections
- Early Life and Rise to Stardom
- Career Highlights and Awards
Nora Aunor’s Passing
National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Nora Aunor, affectionately known as Ate Guy, passed away on April 16, 2025, at the age of 71. The news was confirmed by her son, actor Kristoffer Ian De Leon, through a heartfelt Facebook post.
“We love you Mom… God knows how much we love you… Rest now, Ma… You are just here in our hearts and minds,” Ian wrote.
He later posted a formal announcement of her passing, highlighting her role as the heart of their family—someone whose love, wisdom, and spirit touched many lives. The family said further details would be shared the next day.
Tributes from Family and Friends
One of the most emotional tributes came from her longtime screen rival and close friend, Vilma Santos-Recto, who wrote:
“Our sincerest condolences and prayers. Rest in peace, mare. Ms. Nora Aunor! Our Superstar and National Artist … Maraming salamat!”
Her death sent shockwaves through the Philippine entertainment industry, already mourning the recent passing of Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Songs, who died just four days earlier on April 12.
Final Film Appearances and Political Endeavors
Nora’s last movie appearance was in the horror film “Mananambal,” under Viva Films. Though she was not able to join the promotion, younger co-stars including Bianca Umali, Kelvin Miranda, and Jeric Gonzales took on the task. She also starred in the 2023 drama “Piyeta,” directed by Adolf Alix Jr.
Nora had also made a foray into politics and was initially set to run as a nominee for the People’s Champ Guardians Party-list in the midterm elections. However, she later decided to withdraw.
Health Struggles and Personal Reflections
In an August 2023 interview, Nora assured fans she was in good health but admitted to regretting past habits, particularly smoking.
“Naabuso ko noon ang sarili ko… Kaya kayo huwag kayong maninigarilyo,” she advised.
“Hindi na talaga ako naninigarilyo. Namatay na ako eh… Palagay ko may misyon pa ako sa buhay. Marami pa tayong pasasayahin na tao.”
Previously, she had been hospitalized for breathing difficulties, prompting doctors to advise her to quit smoking.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Born Nora Villamayor on May 21, 1953, in Iriga, Camarines Sur, she rose to fame after winning the Tawag Ng Tanghalan singing competition in 1967. From a humble beginning, she became one of the most iconic figures in Philippine entertainment.
Career Highlights and Awards
Nora Aunor enjoyed a career spanning decades, earning critical acclaim for her performances in legendary films such as:
- Himala
- Bona
- The Flor Contemplacion Story
- Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos
- Thy Womb
- And God Smiled At Me
- Bulaklak Sa City Jail
In 1992, she was inducted into the FAMAS Hall of Fame, followed by a FAP Lifetime Achievement Award in 1993. By 1999, she received the Centennial Honors for the Arts from the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Internationally, Nora became the first Filipino actor to be inducted into the Asia Pacific Screen Academy after winning Best Actress at the 6th Asia Pacific Screen Awards in 2012. She also bagged Best Actress honors at the 7th Asian Film Awards.
In 2022, after years of nominations, she was finally declared a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, alongside luminaries like Ricky Lee and the late Marilou Diaz Abaya.
