Amidst the intense mourning over the passing of Superstar **Nora Aunor**, an unexpected event shook her family and fans. While cleaning and preparing her old mansion for a memorial exhibit, the late actress’s family reportedly discovered a **secret room under the house** — and inside, a **box full of old jewelry, antique documents, and gold coins**!

According to reports, the mansion’s caretaker first noticed it when he noticed a strange echo on a part of the floor. When Ian de Leon and Lotlot de Leon, along with some workers, investigated, they discovered a **trapdoor** under an old bookcase in the house’s library.

When they opened the wooden door, they were greeted by a **narrow but sturdy iron staircase** that looked like it had not been used for decades. Beneath it, a **cold and dusty room** was revealed — filled with items that were clearly hidden by anyone who knew about it. But the darkest and most terrifying thing at the same time? **a box made of old narra, engraved with ancient letters and symbols.**

When the box was opened, everyone was stunned — its contents were **gold necklaces, pearls, several pieces of what appeared to be ancient money, and documents with Spanish and Spanish signatures**. There were also love letters and what appeared to be journals written in old Tagalog, which are suspected to still belong to Nora Aunor’s ancestors.

**”It doesn’t seem like it’s just a coincidence. It’s like a treasure that has been hidden for a long time — and maybe, there’s a reason why Mama never revealed it,”** said Ian de Leon, his voice trembling in an interview.

Many are now asking: **Is this part of Nora’s family history? Is it an inheritance from her ancestors? Or is there a deeper reason why it was kept secret for so long?**

According to several historical experts who advised the family, it is possible that the items found were **formerly owned by illustrious Filipinos during the colonial era**, and may have connections to prominent families during the Spanish era. The box is currently undergoing forensic and historical verification to determine its true origin.

While the entire nation mourns the loss of a legend, it seems that the Superstar’s story continues to revolve. The **treasure found** is not just material, but could be **a door to the deeper history of her family and the country.**

At this point, the question that troubles everyone: **Why did Nora Aunor never mention this? What is the hidden truth behind this treasure?**

Only one thing is clear — even though she is gone, her legend continues to live on… and this further envelops the mystery.

‘Ate Guy’ is remembered as an icon whose legacy of resilience, humility and artistry will never be forgotten

NEW YORK — The recent passing of three beloved Filipino icons has left a deep sense of loss.

Gloria Romero, the queen of Philippine cinema, died in January, setting a somber tone for the year. Just a few months later, in April, we lost Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Songs, and Nora Aunor, a legendary superstar and national treasure – both gone within days of each other.

At 71, many of us Filipino fans still feel unprepared to say goodbye to her. Her death represents a monumental loss to Philippine show business – an absence that will be felt for generations.

Why does this hit differently for me?

Nora was someone I knew, worked with and called “Ate Guy” – her affectionate nickname. Losing her felt like losing a part of my own history.

My mother’s favorite actress, Nora was a staple in our family’s movie nights in Cebu. Little did I know that in the 2000s, my mother and I would meet her backstage at a concert in the Bay Area.

The author with Ate Guy backstage during her intimate show in San Francisco in 2004. Despite her petite stature and humble demeanor, her notable name and status were evident. Photo by Edwina Aniag

Despite her fame, Nora was humble and warm. Short in stature – barely five feet – she radiated kindness and down-to-earth charm.

I remember visiting her at Epee Rafanan’s house, a festival producer and Ate Guy’s longtime friend based in San Francisco. She insisted on washing dishes, saying she loved chores and couldn’t sit still. Her humility and warmth shone through, contrasting sharply with her on-screen persona.

Ate Guy with longtime friend Epee Rafanan in San Francisco | Photo from Epee Rafanan/Facebook

Her life was not without struggles. A year after then San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom honored her, proclaiming a “Nora Aunor Day” in the city in 2004, she was arrested at the Los Angeles International Airport for drug possession.

CONTRIBUTED

The 2005 arrest was a dark chapter, but many fans responded with understanding rather than judgment. Her case was dismissed in 2007 after she completed a court diversion program. That incident, however, did not diminish her contributions to Philippine culture.

Her journey to recognition was long. In 2022, she was finally named a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts – a testament to her impact. Her initial exclusion in 2014, due to her drug issue, was controversial, but her artistic legacy remained undeniable. Despite imperfections, her contributions to film, music and television are immeasurable.

Ate Guy’s career spanned over seven decades, with more than 200 movies and countless performances. She was a singer, actress and producer— touching millions. Films like “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos,” “Bulaklak sa City Jail” and “The Flor Contemplacion Story” earned her awards across Asia and beyond. She is the only Filipino actress to win international awards from five continents – a record of her global influence.

During the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, Nora’s records comprised up to 60 percent of national sales, according to Alpha Records Philippines. She held the record for the most singles in Philippine history, with over 260 singles and 500 songs recorded. Her 1971 cover of “Pearly Shells” sold around one million units, becoming one of the country’s best-selling singles.

Among the Superstar’s most memorable films are “Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo” and “Himala.”

Nora Aunor in ‘Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo’ | CONTRIBUTED

“Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo” (1976), directed by Lupita Aquino-Kashiwahara, is a groundbreaking protest film set near Clark Air Base, highlighting the social and political impact of the US military presence. It was the first major film to address this issue and advocate for the closure of US facilities.

Himala is considered one of the greatest Filipino films, telling the story of Elsa, a village woman who claims to see a divine miracle, sparking faith and chaos. Nora’s performance as Elsa received international acclaim, and the film was named the Best Film of All Time from the Asia-Pacific region at the 2008 CNN Awards.

Both films showcase Nora’s talent and her ability to bring socially relevant stories to life, cementing her legacy as a cinematic icon.

Many who knew her share memories that speak to her enduring legacy.

My Noranian friend Clifford Silagan from the UK said, “Nora’s death is a big loss to showbiz. Who will be our next superstar?”

Former National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) Chair Brendan Flores, who used to manage Nora’s gigs in Las Vegas, shared his thoughts about the late superstar. Though their time working together was brief, Brendan said managing “Tita Guy” was never about handling a superstar – it was about caring for family.

Brendan and Ate Guy, after a fun visit to the Stratosphere Tower in Las Vegas, one of many unforgettable moments shared beyond the spotlight. Photo from Brendan Flores

“She carried herself with the grace of a true icon, but behind the legend was a woman so full of heart, humility and warmth,” Brendan told Inquirer.net USA.

“She treated every project with purpose and intention, always asking thoughtful questions and striving to give her very best – not for applause but because she genuinely cared. Despite her stature, she never made you feel small. She listened. She trusted. She welcomed new ideas with open arms and quiet strength.”

Brendan described his “Tita” as someone who remained beautifully grounded despite her fame – forever generous and gracious. To him, she was more than just a star; she was a blessing in his life and a true coach’s dream.

“This is why she was, and will always be, the Queen of all Queens – the shiniest star of them all…our one and only Superstar.”

In Manila, Manny Tonogbanua, a former advertising executive, recalls a 1984 parade when she was reported missing. Despite the chaos, seeing her get off the Nora Aunor Foundation bus, giggling and happy, was a treasured moment. He says, “Her kindness and spirit shone through even in those simple moments.”

Filipino film festival organizer and journalist Janet Nepales, based in Los Angeles, shared how Nora’s influence extended beyond her films: “She played a special part in my life, bringing my Lola Celing and me closer because my Lola loved her movies. Nora became my bridge to love and life.”

Janet Nepales with Nora Aunor | Photo by Peter Gonzaga/Pacific Rim Photo/Video

Janet Nepales interviewing Nora Aunor | Photo by Peter Gonzaga/Pacific Rim Photo/Video

Janet also recalled meeting her in LA, feeling her presence was more than just that of an artist – she was an inspiration and symbol of resilience.

Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, veteran concert promoter Vic Perez remembered working with Nora during a concert. “Her song, ‘Minsan Ang Minahal Ay Ako,’ will forever be etched in my heart. Her departure leaves a void, but her spirit and music will live on.”

Nora’s artistry, humility and resilience have created a lasting legacy of love and strength that continues to inspire Filipinos and fans worldwide