The nation stood still as Nora Aunor, the Philippines’ undisputed “Superstar,” was laid to rest in a historic state funeral at the Libingan ng mga Bayani—a rare and prestigious honor reserved only for national treasures. The day was filled with grief, pride, and unforgettable tributes as fans, celebrities, and national leaders came together to bid their final goodbye.

💔 A Nation in Mourning

From the moment her passing was confirmed, an outpouring of sorrow swept across the Philippines. Nora Aunor wasn’t just an actress or singer—she was a symbol of hope, excellence, and Filipino resilience. Her state funeral became a national moment of reflection on a life that touched millions.

A week-long public viewing was held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, where thousands lined up day and night to offer flowers, tears, and prayers.

Fans sang her iconic songs like “Paano Kita Mapasasalamatan” as they clutched memorabilia and photos.

🕊️ State Honors for a National Artist

In an unprecedented move, Malacañang approved a state funeral, recognizing Nora as a National Artist for Film and Music. This marked one of the very few times a Filipino entertainer was granted such honor.

The Philippine flag was draped over her casket.

Members of the Armed Forces rendered a 21-gun salute, typically reserved for presidents and national heroes.

President and First Lady were in attendance, alongside cabinet members and prominent figures from the arts and culture sector.

📍 Final Journey to the Libingan ng mga Bayani

On the day of her interment, Nora’s casket was carried by a military hearse as hundreds walked behind her in a solemn procession.

Streets from CCP to Taguig were filled with banners reading “Salamat, Guy” and “Our Superstar Forever.”

Chants of “Mabuhay si Nora!” rang out from emotional fans.

Her final resting place was beside other National Artists, a testament to her status as a cultural icon whose impact transcended generations.

😢 Celebrity Tributes That Moved the Nation

Some of the most emotional moments came from her colleagues and friends who spoke during the funeral rites:

Christopher de Leon, her former husband, broke down in tears as he whispered:

“Thank you for the love, the pain, and the journey. I will always love you.”

Tirso Cruz III placed a single rose atop her casket and said:

“Part of me is buried with you today.”

Lotlot and Matet de Leon, her daughters, delivered heartfelt eulogies recalling both the brilliance and brokenness of their mother:

“She gave everything to the world. But very few knew the battles she fought silently.”

🎬 A Legacy Etched in the Soul of a Nation

Nora Aunor leaves behind not just films and songs, but a legacy of bravery, authenticity, and unmatched artistry. From her humble beginnings selling water on trains to becoming the face of Philippine cinema, she embodied the dreams and struggles of every Filipino.

Her grave is now a shrine of remembrance for fans who continue to visit daily, lighting candles and singing her songs—proof that her spirit lives on.

🕯️ Final Message From the Nation: “You Will Never Be Forgotten”

As the bugle played “Taps” and the flag was folded and handed to her family, there was not a dry eye in sight. The Superstar was gone—but her light will never dim.

“She was more than a star,” said one fan tearfully. “She was our voice, our heart, our Nora.

National Artist Nora Aunor, escorted to the Libingan Ng Mga Bayani
“Farewell, Guy.” Ian de Leon received the Philippine flag from the Armed Forces of the Philippines when Nora Aunor was escorted to her final destination at the Libingan ng mga Bayani this Tuesday afternoon, April 22, 2025.

Ian is Nora Aunor’s only biological child with ex-husband Christopher de Leonl

The government granted Nora the farewell for a hero and Departure Honors as an Artist of the National Film and Broadcast Arts.

Nora’s funeral was attended by her family, friends, and fans who braved the hot sun and humid weather to witness the burial of the actress they idolized. “Farewell, Guy!” were the words heard from Nora’s supporters, who simultaneously sang “Handog” and “Superstar ng Buhay Ko” before the casket containing the actress’s remains was placed in the grave.

Nora passed away at the age of 71 on April 16, 2025. Nora Aunor’s casket lowered to her grave at Heritage ParkNORA AUNOR NECROLOGICAL SERVICE
A “Pagpugay ng Bayan” was held at the Manila Metropolitan Theater in Manila in honor of Nora before her body was taken to the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

Fellow National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee was among those who paid a heartfelt and commendable tribute to Nora.

Because of Ricky’s story, people learned that Nora was conceived by her mother in the Mater Dolorosa or Mother of Sorrows.

“Once, when I asked Guy why his eyes were always sad and full of emotion, he said that his mother conceived him from the Mater Dolorosa.

“The virgin with seven daggers in her heart, maybe that’s why even when she laughed, there was still sadness in her eyes,” Ricky said.

Ricky knew Nora very well because their friendship began in 1982.RICKY LEE TRIBUTE TO NORA AUNOR
They worked together on the film Himala, which Ricky wrote and Ishmael Bernal directed.

Ricky’s description of Nora: “Guy is full of contradictions, simple but complex. Always smiling but inside there is a lot of fear.

“Very shy but the center of attention. Very tall and on a pedestal, but very easy to reach.

“An ordinary person who is extraordinary.

“For almost three decades, he has also made us ordinary people extraordinary, so perhaps we often don’t know what to do with him.

“Are we just going to admire him? Worship him? Imitate him? Study him?

“We claimed him even when he was a child.

We demanded his voice, his entire life and that of his family. His silence.

“We interfered with his every move. We demanded that he be this way, that way.

“We called him names.

“His voice was taken away until he could no longer sing.

“He was denied the opportunity to become a National Artist twice.

“Many producers avoided him because he was said to have many illnesses, and it was difficult to work with him.

“Stories are spread about how generous Guy was.

“When someone needed him, he immediately lent him money.

“He gives his salary to the crew and other people on the set.

“He gave money to the prisoners during the shooting of Flor Contemplacion.

“Guy’s life has not been easy these past few years.

“He had many illnesses and suffered. He had almost no possessions.

“But he still never stopped thinking about the welfare of others.

“He wanted to set up a foundation that would help fans and others in need.

“Guy’s entire life, he gave and gave, until he had almost nothing left.

“And we, because we are used to him being the one who gives, often forget that he also has needs.

“So in the midst of our mourning today, we want to say to him, ‘Guy, on behalf of the millions of people you have inspired, embraced, wiped away tears, changed lives, accept our eternal gratitude.’

We are grateful that we lived in a time when you were here.

“A Nora Aunor only happens once.

“But your story is not over, it is just beginning.

“Your name is a name that we will always say tirelessly to future generations so that they will never forget, that once upon a time, there was an unfading star that shone in the sky of our lives.

“You loved us so much that there was almost nothing left for yourself.

“Let us love you too forever.

“Thank you.”

Read: FULL TRANSCRIPT: Ricky Lee tribute to Nora Aunor