A sad episode has engulfed the Blanco family after actress Jackielou Blanco confirmed the passing of her mother, Pilita Corrales, the so-called Asia’s Queen of Songs, at the age of 85.

According to a family statement, Pilita Corrales passed away at her home surrounded by loved ones. The veteran singer had been battling a long-term illness, but the family chose to keep it private until her last moments.

Jackielou expressed her deep grief through an emotional message on social media. “The heartache of losing a mother is indescribable. Mama was the light of our lives – not only for our family but for the entire music and film industry,” she said.

Jackielou added, “Until the last moment, we felt her love, and even though she is no longer with us, her voice and memory will remain in the hearts of the Filipino people.”

Pilita Corrales was recognized not only in the Philippines but throughout Asia as one of the most popular and respected singers. In her career spanning over six decades, she released hundreds of songs, appeared in numerous films, and was one of the first Filipinas to achieve success on the international stage.

Condolences have already poured in from showbiz friends, fans, and industry colleagues. Among those paying tribute were Sharon Cuneta, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Gary Valenciano, and Lea Salonga who shared their memories of Pilita and how she inspired their own careers.

A series of tributes for Pilita Corrales are expected in the coming days, including a public viewing where her fans can pay their last respects.

Pilita Corrales’ passing is truly a loss to the music world, but her legacy will live on — a voice that will never be forgotten.

Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Songs, dies at 85
Pilita Corrales, dubbed “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” died on Saturday. She was 85.

Born in Cebu on August 22, 1939, Corrales was widely regarded as a trailblazer in Philippine music and had recorded more than 135 albums over a career that spanned more than six decades.

She was the first Filipino artist to top the Australian pop charts and win international recognition at the Tokyo Music Festival in 1972.

Her influence extended into television and film, with her variety show “An Evening with Pilita” considered a landmark in Philippine broadcasting.

Corrales received multiple accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI) and an honorary Doctorate in Music from the University of Visayas.

She is remembered for timeless hits such as “A Million Thanks to You” and “Kapantay ay Langit,” and is widely credited with helping bring Filipino music to international audiences.

Actress Janine Gutierrez paid tribute to her grandmother and honored her legacy both as a public figure and a family matriarch.

“Pilita touched the lives of many, not only with her songs but also with her kindness and generosity,” wrote Janine. “She will be remembered for her contributions to the entertainment industry, but most of all for her love of life and family.”

“Please join us with your prayers and kind thoughts as we celebrate her beautiful life,” she added.

The family has yet to release details regarding memorial services.

Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Song, dies at 85.”