National Artist Nora Aunor dies at 71

Metro Manila, Philippines - Nora Aunor, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts and widely recognized as the “Superstar” of Philippine show business, has died at the age of 71.

Her son, Ian de Leon, confirmed her passing in a Facebook post Wednesday night.

“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora C. Villamayor ‘Nora Aunor’ who left us today, April 16, 2025 at the age of 71,” he said.

“She was the heart of our family — a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever,” De Leon added.

Details of the funeral will be announced Thursday.

Under Executive Order No. 131, National artists like Aunor are considered heroes entitled to a state funeral—with appropriate honors and expenses covered by the government—upon their death. Malacañang has yet to issue a statement.

Humble beginnings

Born Nora Cabaltera Villamayor on May 21, 1953 in Iriga, Camarines Sur, she began her entertainment career at a young age. Aunor rose to fame after winning Grand Champion in Tawag ng Tanghalan in 1967.

Her iconic voice and acting range made her a household name and earned her the title "Superstar."

Big screen icon

Aunor was declared national artist in 2022. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts lauded her filmography and the countless honors she received both locally and internationally.

Among her most acclaimed works are ”Himala” (1982), “Bulaklak sa City Jail” (1984), and ”The Flor Contemplacion Story” (1995). She swept the Best Actress awards in 1990 for “Andrea, Paano ba ang Maging Isang Ina?“ and won the coveted title at the Cairo International Film Festival in 1995.

Political foray

In 2021, Aunor filed to run under the NORAA Party-list for the 2022 elections. She later became the second nominee of the People’s Champ Guardians Party-list for the 2025 polls, but withdrew earlier this year.

Family and legacy

Aunor married actor Christopher de Leon in 1975. They had one son, Ian, and four adopted children: Lotlot, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth. Their marriage was annulled in 1996.