Lotlot, Matet, and Ian De Leon React to Heartwarming Tribute by Chinese Chef to the Late Nora Aunor

In an emotional and unexpected twist during the nationwide mourning of legendary actress Nora Aunor, a Chinese-Filipino chef has gone viral for his heartfelt culinary tribute to the Superstar. The gesture, which included a specially crafted multi-course meal inspired by Aunor’s films and legacy, deeply moved the public — and more importantly, her children.

Lotlot De Leon, Matet De Leon, and Ian De Leon, all prominent figures in showbiz and beloved children of Nora, gave their heartfelt reactions to the tribute, expressing gratitude, surprise, and pride in how their mother continues to inspire people from all walks of life — even outside the entertainment industry.

The Tribute: A Taste of the Superstar’s Legacy

The tribute was organized by Chef Liu Wei, a Chinese-Filipino culinary artist based in Binondo, who has long admired Nora Aunor’s artistry. Held at a private dinner event with limited guests, Chef Liu presented a seven-course Filipino-Chinese fusion meal, with each dish representing a theme or iconic film from Nora Aunor’s six-decade career.

Among the dishes were:

“Himala Soup” – a bold, clear consommé symbolizing spiritual clarity and sacrifice

“Bona Braised Pork” – a home-style comfort dish inspired by Aunor’s role in Bona

“Superstar Sweets Platter” – desserts designed to reflect her sweetness and strength

Chef Liu ended the evening by playing a classic Nora song while offering incense and a simple message:

“To the woman who taught us emotion, silence, and power through her eyes — thank you.”

Videos and photos from the tribute quickly went viral on TikTok and Instagram, sparking emotional reactions from longtime Nora fans and the general public.

Lotlot De Leon: “Mom Touched So Many, Even Beyond the Screen”

Lotlot De Leon, Nora’s adopted daughter and actress in her own right, shared the viral tribute video on her Instagram stories, adding a tearful caption:

“Wow. I didn’t expect this. Thank you, Chef Liu, for honoring my mom in such a beautiful and unique way. She truly touched so many hearts, not just through acting, but through the spirit she carried.”

Lotlot later said in an interview that it reminded her of the many people her mother quietly helped, many of whom she never met in person.

Matet De Leon: “This Means the World to Us”

Matet, known for her candid personality and openness about her relationship with Nora, also praised the tribute. In a short message on Facebook, she wrote:

“Nakakaiyak naman ito. Ang mga ganitong pagkilala, lalo na galing sa taong hindi artista, mas tumatagos. Maraming salamat po.”

(“This really made me cry. Tributes like these, especially coming from someone outside the showbiz world, hit differently. Thank you so much.”)

She added that their family continues to receive tributes and messages from fans across the country and abroad — a testament to the Superstar’s timeless impact.

Ian De Leon: “She Was More Than an Actress”

Ian De Leon, who has kept a more private profile in recent years, released a short statement via a family friend and confirmed his appreciation for the gesture:

“My mother was always about sincerity and heart. She would have loved this tribute — not because it was grand, but because it came from a place of pure respect.”

Ian emphasized that Nora Aunor was more than an icon; she was a symbol of resilience, of fighting through silence, and of giving voice to the voiceless.

Chef Liu Speaks: “Nora Aunor Spoke to My Soul”

When asked why he decided to prepare such a tribute, Chef Liu Wei said he grew up watching Nora’s films even without fully understanding Tagalog.

“Her eyes spoke to me. Her pain, her pride, her silence — I understood them through her acting. She was my first connection to Filipino storytelling,” he said.

He added that the tribute was his own way of saying goodbye to a woman who shaped his artistic soul.

“I may not be an actor, but I am an artist through food. And this was my canvas for her.”

Conclusion: A Superstar Remembered in Every Language

The tribute by Chef Liu is a touching reminder that Nora Aunor’s legacy transcends borders, language, and even art forms. She wasn’t just a movie star — she was, and remains, a deeply human voice in a world that needs more empathy.

And for her children — Lotlot, Matet, and Ian — the tribute served as one more affirmation of their mother’s lasting power to move people, even in the quietest, most unexpected ways.

*“It wasn’t a red carpet or a big show,” Matet said, “but it was one of the most beautiful tributes we’ve seen.”