Tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry as Filipino celebrities expressed their grief and paid homage to the late iconic and beloved actress Nora Aunor, who passed away at the age of 71.
Among the first to express their sorrow was actress and fellow screen legend Vilma Santos, who shared a heartfelt message on social media.
“Our sincerest condolences and prayers.. Rest In Peace, Mare. Ms. Nora Aunor! Our Superstar and National Artist… Maraming Salamat!” Santos wrote on Facebook.
Veteran actress Charo Santos-Concio also paid tribute to Aunor’s long and decorated career in a lengthy and emotional post on Instagram which began with an iconic line from the late actress’ well-known 1982 film, “Himala.”
“Nora, salamat sa sining. Salamat sa puso. You were never just an actress. You were our mirror. Our voice. And always, our Superstar. 💖,” Charo wrote.
Seasoned stars Eugene Domingo and Maricel Soriano also expressed their Ate Nora by sharing photos of them together accompanied by heartfelt messages.
Younger stars also shared their admiration for Aunor, including actress Lovi Poe who shared a heartfelt tribute for Nora with whom she famously starred together with in the 2012 Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Thy Womb.”
“She was not only an icon, but also one of the most humble, gracious, and kind human beings I’ve ever met… Maraming salamat po, Ate Guy. You will forever be remembered, honored, and loved,” she wrote.
Actor Dingdong Dantes looked back on working with the veteran star by sharing photos of them working together in the 2015 teleserye “Pari ‘Koy.”
“She didn’t make me feel like I had to prove anything. She made sure I was okay. She was generous with her presence—not just in the scene, but in that in-between space where actors wait and breathe,” wrote Dantes on Instagram. “For me, it wasn’t just about the scene. It was about that ten-minute ‘standby actors’ moment with Ate Guy on a chilly August night in 2015.”
Director Jun Robles Lana also joined in remembering Aunor not only for her powerful performances but also for her courage to challenge norms and give voice to the marginalized.
President Bongbong Marcos also released a statement honoring Aunor’s lifetime contribution to the arts as a National Artist.
“I offer my heartfelt condolences to Nora Aunor’s family, friends, and the film industry itself. Let us pray together for the eternal repose of the soul of our beloved National Artist,” President Marcos’ statement read.
Meanwhile, fans gathered online and at various public spaces to celebrate Aunor’s life, sharing their favorite scenes, film stills, and music, making her name trend across social media platforms.
Aunor’s wake and burial, along with a public viewing will take place at The Chapels at Heritage Park in Taguig City, scheduled from 10 AM to 4 PM on April 19 and 20, 2025, as announced by her daughter Lotlot De Leon.
