Filipino Folk Icon Freddie Aguilar Passes Away

Manila, Philippines — Filipino folk musician and Original Pilipino Music (OPM) icon Freddie Aguilar has passed away. He was 72.

Born Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar on 05 February 1953, he died at 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27 at the Philippine Heart Center.

He is survived by his wife Jovie and their children.

Considered an OPM pillar and music legend, Aguilar is best known for his hit songs "Bayan Ko," "Magdalena," and "Anak" which sold 33 million copies worldwide and translated into other languages.

For supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Aguilar is known for his signature Duterte anthem "Duterte ( Para Sa Tunay Na Pagbabago )."

His wife Jovie, in a Facebook post four days ago, wrote a statement from the Philippine Heart Center saying "Stay strong, things will get better. It may be stormy now, but it can't rain forever."

Actress Vivian Velez posted her sympathies for the bereaved on Tuesday "Our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. His music will forever live on in our hearts.”

Freddie Aguilar last shared a post about himself on social media on May 10 when he shared a YouTube link to his 2007 ASEAN Summit performance of "Anak."

Salamat at paalam, Ka Fredddie Aguilar!

Photo Source: Freddie Aguilar FB