The world of Filipino showbiz is in mourning as it comes to terms with the heartbreaking news of PILITA CORRALES’ passing — a true icon, a living legend whose voice once captivated generations and whose presence shaped the very foundation of OPM (Original Pilipino Music).

But while the nation remembers her legacy, it was her final moments that left family, friends, and fans in shock — especially Janine Gutierrez, her beloved granddaughter, who couldn’t hold back her tears during her last goodbye.

💔 A Nation in Shock: “Asia’s Queen of Songs” Bids Farewell

At 85 years old, Pilita Corrales lived a full and impactful life. Known as “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” she was the first Filipino artist to record in Australia, and her contributions to music, television, and culture spanned over six decades.

Her death, although not sudden, struck a deep chord among many who grew up with her music and charisma.

“She was a symbol of grace and power,” one fan wrote. “A part of our cultural soul.”

🕯️ The Final Hours: Surrounded by Love

According to close sources, Pilita Corrales spent her final moments surrounded by family, including children, grandchildren, and longtime colleagues in the industry.

Despite her declining health in recent months, she reportedly remained “lucid, serene, and smiling,” even as her strength faded.

But it was her final conversation with Janine Gutierrez that broke everyone’s hearts.

😭 Janine Gutierrez: “I tried to be strong… but I couldn’t stop crying.”

Janine, one of today’s brightest young stars, has always spoken about the special bond she shared with her lola Pilita. In a tearful post shared on her Instagram story just hours after Pilita’s passing, Janine wrote:

“I held her hand. She looked at me. She smiled. I told her I loved her… and she nodded. I wanted to be strong, but I just couldn’t stop crying.”

“She wasn’t just my lola. She was my hero.”

Fans flooded Janine’s page with messages of support, many sharing their own stories of how Pilita’s songs touched their lives.

🎤 A Voice That Echoed Through Generations

Pilita Corrales wasn’t just a singer — she was a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a cultural treasure. Her performances in classic hits like “Kapantay ay Langit” and “A Million Thanks to You” became staples of Filipino homes.

She mentored some of the biggest names in the industry and remained active in television well into her later years, known for her class, wit, and unmistakable voice.

🌹 A Legacy Etched in History

The family has yet to release details about the funeral, but there are talks of a state tribute or cultural memorial concert, in honor of Pilita’s contributions to Philippine arts.

Government officials, fellow artists, and fans nationwide have expressed grief and admiration for her legacy.

“There will never be another Pilita,” one senator stated.
“She was more than a singer. She was the voice of our nation’s soul.”

🕊️ Final Goodbye

As the country says farewell to one of its greatest treasures, the pain is matched only by the gratitude — for the decades of music, for the memories, for the laughter, for the grace.

And as Janine Gutierrez — wiping away her tears — whispered her last words to her lola, it was clear this wasn’t just a goodbye.

Janine Gutierrez on being the granddaughter of Pilita Corrales: ‘I love you mamita’
As a granddaughter of the OPM singer known as “Asia’s Queen of Song” Pilita Corrales, Janine Gutierrez considers her grandmother (whom she lovingly refers to as “mamita”) as a living icon on and off screen. She shared how much she loves her 85-year-old grandmother in her Instagram post last November 7.

She wrote, “I spent a good amount of my childhood in Mamita’s walk-in closet trying on her pvc heels and hiding behind her gowns. I remember the smell as I type this. And I also want to cry a little bit. When I got big enough to fit into her clothes, every time I would visit, she’d give me handfuls. Everything is fine with me. (Yes, she is really biased. She also thinks I sing well, which confirms her bias.) I love her so much and feel so lucky to have her in my life. She’s been the most generous person, even to this day agreeing to do stupid vlogs with me. Don’t forget to watch my latest vlog now up on my YouTube channel.”

Even in previous posts, Janine has already shared some of her bonding moments with her famous grandmother and posting throwback photos from Pilita’s career which has already spanned more than six decades.

After starring in the ABS-CBN projects Marry Me, Marry You and Sleep With Me earlier this year, Janine is set to be part of the cast of the upcoming series Dirty Linen along with Zanjoe Marudo, Francine Diaz, and Seth Fedelin.