Once estranged, Nora Aunor reunites with children as she celebrates 70th birthday

MANILA — National Artist Nora Aunor marked her 70th birthday on Saturday with a rare family reunion and a heartfelt prayer for a longer life and continued good health.

All five of the iconic actress’s children were present at the ‘70s-themed celebration held at Seda Hotel in Quezon City. In attendance were Ian de Leon along with his wife Jennifer Orcine and their children; Lotlot de Leon and her husband Fadi El-Soury; Matet de Leon with her husband Mickey Estrada and their children; as well as Kiko and Kenneth.

Once estranged from their mother, Lotlot, Matet, and Ian each expressed their unconditional love for Aunor. In turn, Aunor expressed deep gratitude to her children for supporting her, especially during her recent hospitalization due to a respiratory illness.

“Good health is always my birthday wish for Mommy,” Lotlot told ABS-CBN News. “Even if you call me at 2 or 3 in the morning, I’ll get up—I’ll be there for you! I’m here because of you.”

“All’s well that ends well,” Lotlot agreed, echoing the sentiments of the intimate group of guests who had witnessed the family’s ups and downs over the years.

Ian also reflected on his mother’s unique way of expressing love. “Sometimes, we—even she—don’t fully understand it. But she sees beauty and goodness in everyone, even in darkness,” he said in his tribute. “This, I humbly accept and embrace without judgment.”

In a lighter moment, Matet drew the loudest laughter when she admitted she was often the most outspoken in her disagreements with her mother. “I’m the one who always says the most about Mommy,” she said.

“We’re always chatting, so I end up telling her everything,” Matet added, referring to a now-resolved issue involving their rumored rivalry in selling bottled tuyo (dried fish). “But Mommy, we love you so, so much! Forever!”

Aunor, for her part, expressed nothing but gratitude for the gift of extended life following her health scare. “The Lord is still there, watching over me. My only wish is to live longer, to do more projects, and to help those in need,” she told ABS-CBN News.