Manila, Philippines – The Philippine music industry and the entire nation are grieving the heartbreaking loss of a true legend. Freddie Aguilar, the iconic singer-songwriter whose timeless anthem “Anak” transcended generations and borders, passed away in the early hours of May 27, 2025, at the age of 72. He died at around 1:30 a.m. at the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City.

According to official reports, the cause of death was cardiac arrest, which was triggered by complications from pneumonia and kidney problems. The news was confirmed by Atty. George Briones, general counsel of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), where Aguilar held a leadership position as national executive vice president.

A Voice of the Filipino Soul

Freddie Aguilar, born Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar on February 5, 1953, in Santa Fe, Cebu, became a household name not just in the Philippines but across the globe. He first captivated audiences in the late 1970s with the release of “Anak,” a deeply emotional song about parental love, regret, and redemption. The song was an instant hit and became one of the best-selling Filipino songs of all time. It was translated into over two dozen languages, earning international acclaim and establishing Aguilar as one of the Philippines’ most prominent cultural ambassadors.

But Aguilar was more than just a balladeer. He was a fearless artist who used music as a tool for social and political commentary. His rendition of “Bayan Ko” became a protest anthem during the 1986 People Power Revolution, embodying the voice of a nation yearning for freedom.

A Complicated but Passionate Life

Throughout his life, Freddie Aguilar remained devoted to his roots and to expressing the truth through his music. He often challenged authority and took bold stances on national issues. Despite controversies—including his relationship with a much younger woman, which drew public scrutiny—Aguilar remained unapologetic and authentic, continuing to write and perform music that spoke to the Filipino spirit.

In recent years, Aguilar had taken a step back from public life, focusing more on his family and health. His wife, Jovie Albao, had kept fans updated about his condition, especially in the weeks leading to his death. In social media posts, she expressed both concern and gratitude for the overwhelming support the family received from fans and friends.

Tributes Pour In

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from artists, political leaders, and fans worldwide. Fellow musicians described Aguilar as a “father figure” in OPM, someone who paved the way for generations of Filipino artists. His music, they said, carried messages that remain as relevant today as they were decades ago.

Celebrities and political figures took to social media to share heartfelt messages. Vice President Sara Duterte wrote, “Freddie Aguilar’s voice was the voice of the nation. His songs will live forever in our hearts.” OPM artists like Gary Valenciano, Noel Cabangon, and Gloc-9 also expressed their grief and honored Aguilar’s contributions to Filipino music and culture.

Fans gathered at impromptu vigils outside the hospital and Aguilar’s home, bringing flowers, candles, and handwritten notes. Many sang “Anak” in unison, some with tears streaming down their faces.

A Legacy That Will Never Die

Freddie Aguilar’s influence on music, society, and national identity cannot be overstated. He turned personal stories into universal anthems, gave voice to the voiceless, and reminded Filipinos of their dignity and resilience. His death is not just the passing of a man, but the end of an era.

Plans for a public memorial are underway, with the Philippine government considering declaring a National Day of Mourning in his honor. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whose family Aguilar once criticized through his music but later supported politically, has called Aguilar “a national treasure whose music unified and inspired the Filipino people.”

Final Words

Freddie Aguilar is survived by his wife, children, and millions of fans whose lives were changed by his music. As the nation says farewell, one thing remains certain: the songs of Ka Freddie will echo through time, forever reminding us of who we are as a people.

OPM icon Freddie Aguilar dead at 72 — report

MANILA, Philippines — Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon Freddie Aguilar has passed away at the age of 72.

Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP) general counsel George Briones confirmed the news to Manila Standard.

Freddie was a former national executive vice president of PFP.

According to Atty. George, Freddie died at around 1:30 a.m. on May 27 at the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City.

A Philippine Heart Association source confirmed to Philstar.com that “Ka Freddie” was transferred to the Philippine Heart Center from another hospital due to an alleged blocked artery.

Philstar.com reached out to Philippine Heart Center for confirmation, but the hospital advised to wait for official announcement from Ka Freddie’s family, citing the Data Privacy Act that protects against leaking patients’ personal information.

Preparations are reportedly underway for burial within 24 hours, in accordance with Aguilar’s Muslim faith.

Ka Freddie was known for his song “Anak,” which has been translated into many other languages.

He was appointed by former President Rodrigo Duterte as Presidential Adviser on Culture and the Arts