National Artist Nora Aunor, also known as “Ate Guy,” passed away on the night of April 16, 2025, at the age of 71. She had been admitted to The Medical City Ortigas in Pasig on April 10 and died of acute respiratory failure one day after undergoing a coronary angioplasty procedure.

According to her son, Ian de Leon, she experienced difficulty breathing after the procedure, which led to a decline in her condition and eventually to acute respiratory failure. In addition, she had also been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a common illness that causes breathing difficulties and is often found in the elderly.

Earlier, in 2023, Nora Aunor shared that she had a serious incident when her oxygen levels dropped drastically, causing cardiac arrest for three minutes. She recalled that when she was brought to the hospital, no one responded quickly enough to help, and when she regained consciousness, she was already in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

After her death, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared April 22, 2025, as a “National Day of Mourning” in her honor. A state funeral was held at the Manila Metropolitan Theater, and she was laid to rest at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) in Taguig.

 

A heartbreaking piece of news tonight has shaken the world of showbiz — the passing of National Artist Nora Aunor, more popularly known as Ate Guy.

In a post by Ate Guy’s son, Ian de Leon, he sorrowfully announced the passing of his beloved mother:
“We love you, Ma. God knows how much we love you. Rest now, Ma. You will always remain in our hearts and minds.”

“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, also known as Nora Aunor, who left us today, April 16, 2025, at the age of 71. She was the heart of our family — a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth.

Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever. Further details will be announced tomorrow.”

In your farewell, they sing for you — you are the superstar, the light in the darkness, the strength in hardship. It’s hard to find someone like you. You are the superstar, the star of my life.
It’s hard to find someone like you.