Matet de Leon Publicly Reveals the True Cause of Mother Nora Aunor’s Passing

Veteran actress Nora Aunor has passed away at the age of 71, as confirmed by her daughter Matet de Leon.
“We love you, Mommy.” This was the simple yet emotional message shared by actress Matet de Leon after the death of her mother, Philippine cinema’s “Superstar” Nora Aunor.

The heartbreaking news shook the entire nation, as Nora Aunor, who was widely regarded as the Superstar of Philippine cinema, passed away at the age of 71. Her son Ian de Leon also confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post on Wednesday night.
“We love you, Ma. Annie—Ian. God knows how much we love you. Rest now, Ma. You will always remain in our hearts and minds.”

Nora Aunor was declared a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022 in recognition of her over five decades of contribution to film and television. With countless films and accolades under her name, she became a true legend in the industry.

Born Nora Cabaltera Villamayor in Iriga City, Camarines Sur, Aunor rose to fame after winning the talent show “Tawag ng Tanghalan” in 1967. Some of her iconic works include Himala (1982), Bulaklak sa City Jail (1984), The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995), and Andrea: Paano Ba ang Maging Isang Ina? (1990), for which she earned a grand slam for Best Actress.

In a 2023 interview, Nora shared a traumatic experience:
“I already died,” she said, referring to a time when she lost oxygen and had to be rushed to the hospital.
“I didn’t know what was happening. No one helped. They didn’t rush to give me oxygen. When I woke up, I was already in the ICU,” she recalled during her interview with Boy Abunda.

Despite having faced death multiple times, Nora always bounced back, becoming a symbol of strength and inspiration for many. Recently, she appeared in the films Mananambal and Tiyeka, although she was no longer able to promote them.

She was previously married to actor Christopher de Leon and had five children—one biological and four adopted: Ian, Lotlot, Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth. Her passing adds to the sorrow already felt by the entertainment industry, which is still mourning the death of Asia’s Queen of Songs, Pilita Corrales, who passed away on April 12.

As of now, the Aunor family has yet to release final details regarding the wake and burial. Meanwhile, circulating reports have raised questions about the true cause of Nora Aunor’s death. According to some sources, she may not have died due to illness, but allegedly due to foul play.

Although this has not yet been officially confirmed, reports are already spreading regarding the matter. It’s said that Nora was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead upon arrival. Medical findings allegedly revealed bruises on her body, raising suspicions that her death may not have been natural.

Currently, Nora’s body is undergoing an autopsy to determine the exact cause of her sudden passing. Authorities are now also involved in the investigation of the incident. However, the police have not yet released any official statement regarding these reports.