E-Paper
Sign In
State funeral for Nora Aunor, one of Philippine cinema's biggest stars, who died aged 71
Aunor's death on Wednesday was announced by her children on social media
- PUBLISHED: Thu 17 Apr 2025, 9:12 AM
Nora Aunor, who became one of the biggest stars of Philippine cinema during a career that spanned seven decades, has died at the age of 71.
Aunor died Wednesday, according to social media posts from her children.
Recommended For You
"She touched generations with her unmatched talent, grace, and passion for the craft. Her voice, presence, and artistry shaped a legacy that will never fade," her daughter and actor Lotlot de Leon said on Instagram.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Nora Aunor's son, Kristoffer Ian De Leon, remembered her as the ‘heart of our family’. "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. 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."
On Thursday, President Ferdinand Marcos described her as "a gift to the Filipino nation", and the government's National Commission for Culture and the Arts said she would receive a state funeral.
"Throughout her splendid career that spanned more than 50 years, she was our consummate actress, singer, and film producer," Marcos said. "Her golden voice was a balm for all. Her genius was a gift to the Filipino nation."
What is Nora Aunor's cause of death?
The cause of death for the 71-year-old has not been officially confirmed by either her family or local authorities. According to Inquirer.net, she had been admitted to a hospital in Pasig for a medical procedure, though specifics about the treatment remain undisclosed.
Nora Aunor's career
Born into a poor family in the city of Iriga, Aunor established a career in television, music and film over seven decades. She was named National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022 — the Philippines' highest honour for the arts.
She first found fame as a singer in the 1960s, later transitioning to acting, where she built an impressive career with over 200 film and television roles.
Among her standout performances was the 1995 film 'The Flor Contemplacion Story', which told the harrowing tale of a Filipino domestic worker executed in Singapore for the alleged murder of a fellow maid.
Her powerful portrayal earned both local and international acclaim, adding to the dozens of awards she collected throughout her illustrious career.
Aunor was acting as recently as last year, starring in the film 'Mananambal' ('The Healer') and appearing on the TV series 'Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law'.
She was married to actor Christopher de León from 1975 until 1996. She is survived by their children Lotlet, Ian, Matet, Kiko and Kenneth de León