Manila, Philippines – In a deeply emotional scene that brought both tears and reflection, Lotlot de Leon, along with her siblings, quietly gathered to celebrate the birthday of the late Nora Aunor—the legendary “Superstar” of Philippine cinema—at her final resting place. Meanwhile, the conspicuous absence of John Estrada, who was instead spotted in Eastwood on the same day, has stirred a wave of speculation and sadness among fans.

The bittersweet tribute took place in a peaceful cemetery in Quezon City, where the de Leon siblings came together to honor the memory of their beloved mother, who passed away leaving behind a legacy that transformed Philippine showbiz forever.

A Quiet Yet Powerful Gathering

Lotlot, visibly emotional, was seen placing flowers and lighting candles on her mother’s grave. In photos that have since gone viral, she is joined by her siblings, each holding onto memories only they truly understand. The family prayed in silence, shared stories, and even sang one of Nora’s favorite songs in a moment that moved those in attendance.

“We miss her every single day,” Lotlot was quoted saying. “But on her birthday, the longing becomes heavier. We just wanted to be close to her… even if it’s just here.”

Fans flocked to the comments section of the photos posted online, many expressing heartbreak and admiration for the way Nora’s children continue to carry her name with grace and quiet strength.

Where Was John Estrada?

While the de Leon family stood in solemn remembrance, questions quickly surfaced about the absence of John Estrada, who had maintained a close personal and professional connection with Nora Aunor in her later years.

Instead, John was reportedly spotted in Eastwood, attending a casual social event. Dressed in relaxed attire, he was seen laughing with friends—unaware that his public appearance would spark backlash among fans who expected him to show up at the gravesite of a woman he once called a “second mother.”

“This isn’t about drama,” one netizen wrote. “It’s about respect. Nora Aunor was not just a Superstar—she was his friend. Why wasn’t he there?”

Unanswered Questions and Lingering Emotions

The reasons behind John’s absence remain unclear. Some insiders say he was unaware of the family’s plans, while others suggest a rift may have formed in the months following Nora’s passing. Neither John nor his management team have released a statement as of this writing.

But whether accidental or intentional, his absence on such a significant day has cast a shadow over what should have been a purely heartfelt remembrance.

The Legacy Lives On

Despite the pain, the gathering of the de Leon family reminded the public that Nora Aunor’s presence continues to be felt—in the lives of those she raised, in the art she created, and in the love she left behind.

“We will keep celebrating her, year after year,” Lotlot said. “Because love doesn’t die with the person—it stays with us, forever.”

Lotlot, Matet de Leon pay tribute to Nora Aunor on her birthday

The children of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Art Nora Aunor took to social media to remember on her 72nd birthday, yesterday May 21.

Nora passed away last April 2025 and according to her son Ian de Leon, she passed away due to “acute respiratory failure.”

Lotlot de Leon and Matet de Leon posted on Instagram that they visited the grave of their late mother on her birthday.

The mother of Janine Gutierrez wrote in the captions of her post, “Happy birthday in heaven, mommy! I will always love you.”

The late actress had four adopted children with ex-husband Christopher de Leon namely Lotlot, Matet, Kenneth, and Kiko. Meanwhile, Ian de Leon is their biological son.

Christopher de Leon’s marriage with Nora Aunor was annulled by the court in 1996.