OPM icon Hajji Alejandro dies at 70

Metro Manila, Philippines - Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon Hajji Alejandro has died at age 70, his family said on Tuesday, April 22.

The Alejandro family shared a statement posted by the manager of singer Rachel Alejandro, Hajji’s daughter.

Details of his death have yet to be released.

“At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as our family grieves this tremendous loss. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time,” the family said in a statement.

Alejandro reportedly battled colon cancer. He celebrated his 70th birthday in December.

Called “Kilabot ng Kolehiyala” (teen heartthrob), Alejandro began his career in the 1970s. Among his most notable hits were “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” “Nakapagtataka,” and “Tag-Araw, Tag-Ulan.”

Mourning Alejandro’s death

Fellow OPM icons mourned Alejandro and honored his legacy.

“Concert King” Martin Nievera said the industry lost “such a wonderful beautiful man.”

“He was always so kind and supportive, not to mention humble and extremely fun to be around. I have learned so much from this man,” he wrote on Instagram.

Veteran singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid said he was saddened by the successive deaths of OPM icons.

Alejandro is the third OPM legend who died in the last two weeks, following Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor.

OPM hitmakers Nonoy Zuniga, Marco Sison, and Rey Valera, meanwhile, thanked their good friend for sharing the stage.

“You bravely took the final bow my friend but your music will surely live on,” they said in a statement.