The who's who in Philippine showbiz, past and present, gathered at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theater to pay their final respects to one of the greatest pillars of the industry—National Artist Nora Aunor.
As early as 8:00 A.M. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, a solemn procession of industry icons, colleagues, and fans began arriving—each one bearing memories of a woman whose voice, presence, and spirit helped reshape Philippine cinema.
From long-time collaborators to younger artists she inspired, the star-studded crowd was united in a collective grief wrapped in silence, reverence, and a personal tribute to the Superstar.
Read: Nora Aunor’s legacy: a Superstar onstage and onscreen
Nora Aunor's FAMILY
Nora’s children—the de Leon siblings Ian, Lotlot, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth—were present at the service, walking solemnly behind the coffin as it was brought into the Metropolitan Theater.
They were joined by the next generation of their family, including Janine Gutierrez and her siblings.
Read: Janine Gutierrez mourns death of two lolas, Pilita and Nora
TRIBUTES FROM INDUSTRY GREATS
Among those seen arriving early at the Metropolitan Theater were acclaimed director Joel Lamangan, celebrated screenwriter Ricky Lee, and veteran actress and media executive Charo Santos-Concio—each linked to key chapters of Nora's storied career.
They were tasked to honor Nora through personal tributes during the program.
Read: Lotlot de Leon, nag-alala kahit sinabi ni Nora Aunor: "Okay ako"
FULL PROGRAM OF NORA AUNOR'S STATE NECROLOGICAL SERVICE
The formal program began with the national anthem and an invocation shortly after the arrival honors, which happened at 8:30 A.M.
Cultural Center of the Philippines Vice Chairperson Carissa Coscolluela opened the tribute with her remarks, followed by a symbolic flower offering by Nora's fellow National Artists.
From there, the program unfolded like a love letter to Nora’s life and legacy—highlighted by a heartfelt tribute from Ricky Lee, stirring renditions of “Walang Himala” and “Handog” by Aicelle Santos and the Philippine Madrigal Singers, and a solemn ceremonial changing of the guards.
Next was director Joel Lamangan's anecdotes, followed by Charo Santos-Concio’s moving words about their decades of collaboration and kinship.
Singers Jed Madela and Angeline Quinto performed “Superstar ng Buhay Ko,” a song long associated with Nora’s larger-than-life presence.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), represented by Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo, also gave tribute.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivered his message through NCCA Chair Victorino Mapa Manalo, followed by the ceremonial transfer of the National Artist medallion.
CCP President Kaye C. Tinga then closed the service with a final tribute, leading to a solemn recessional by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.
Read: Nora Aunor and her politics, both popular and unpopular