Philippines observes day of mourning for Nora Aunor

State funeral honors for Nora Aunor at Arroceros Forest Park in Manila on April 22, 2025. BONG GO

The Philippines paid tribute to one of its most revered artists, Nora Aunor, on Tuesday (April 22), as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. declared a Day of National Mourning in honor of the late National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts. Aunor, born Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, died on April 16 at the age of 71. Her remains were given state funeral honors at the Arroceros Forest Park in Manila on Tuesday morning, followed by a necrological service at the Metropolitan Theater. Marcos ordered all government buildings and installations in the Philippines and abroad to fly the national flag at half-mast on April 22. “The passing of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, also known as Nora Aunor, is a great loss to the Filipino people and to the nation's cultural and artistic community,” Marcos said. He praised Aunor for her immense influence in shaping the Philippine entertainment industry, stating: “Her artistry, depth, and dedication as a performer elevated the standard of excellence in the fields of arts and culture, and inspired generations of actors, filmmakers, and audiences, both in local and international stage.” Aunor rose to stardom in the 1960s as a powerful singer before dominating the Philippine film industry with groundbreaking roles in Himala (1982), Bulaklak sa City Jail (1984), The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995), and Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos (1976). In 1990, she achieved a rare “grand slam” by winning Best Actress from all major film awards for Andrea, Paano Ba ang Maging Isang Ina?. Her career spanned over 170 films, numerous awards, and international acclaim, including Best Actress at the 2013 Asian Film Awards for Thy Womb. Aunor was named National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022 under a presidential proclamation signed by former president Rodrigo Duterte. She was last seen in the horror film Mananambal, released in February 2025. She is survived by her children Ian, Lotlot, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth. Her marriage to actor Christopher de Leon, with whom she had son Ian, was annulled in 1996. ICA/Expat Media