Nora Aunor, National Artist, passes away at 71

NORA Cabaltera Villamayor, more widely known as ‘Nora Aunor,’ whose unique voice and acting on film and stage captivated and endeared her to millions of fans during her prime has passed away. She was 71 years old.

Aunor, who came from a poor family with 8 other siblings in Iriga, Camarines Sur, Bicol Region, was born on May 21, 1953.

Gifted with a ‘Golden Voice,’ she won the National Finals of the then highly-popular, ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ in 1967, a victory that would soon propel her not only to national, but also, international popularity.

Aunor would also be remembered and recognized for her acting skills, having been inducted to the ‘Hall of Fame’ of the FAMAS (Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences), the equivalent of the ‘Oscar’s Award’ in Hollywood, five times after being nominated for ‘Best Actress’ at least 17 times for her film works.

Nora was also recognized in various regional and international film festivals such as the Cairo International Film Festival Award, Asia Pacific Screen Award, and the Asian Film Award.

For her achievements, she was recognized as a ‘National Artist’ for Film and Broadcast Art in 2022,

Her son, Ian de Leon by actor Christopher de Leon, said Nora passed away “peacefully” last April 16, surrounded by her children and “by people who loved her the most.”

As a National Artist, Nora would be laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on April 22, mainstream media reports said.

Her passing comes just four days after another famous and respected Filipina singer and actress, Pilar Garrido ‘Pilita Corrales,’ passed away last April 12 at the age of 88.