One of the most iconic voices in Filipino music has fallen silent. Freddie Aguilar, legendary folk singer and cultural icon, has passed away at the age of 71 due to multiple organ complications.
His death was confirmed by close friends and family on May 27, 2025, sending grief and mourning across the country. Known for his deep, emotional ballads and powerful nationalistic songs, Aguilar is leaving behind a legacy that has shaped generations of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
Rest In Peace, Ka-Freddie
Best known for his 1978 hit “Anak,” Aguilar’s music went beyond language and borders. The song, which speaks of a child’s remorse and a parent’s love, became an international hit and has been translated into multiple languages and beloved around the world.
Beyond Anak, Freddie Aguilar’s music was a voice for the poor, the oppressed, and the hopeful. Songs like Estudyante Blues, Magdalena, and his iconic cover of Bayan Ko served as anthems for protest movements and personal struggles.
In Visayas and Mindanao, where his music is deeply in karaoke machines, jukeboxes, and memories, Freddie Aguilar was not just a musician, he became a part of our daily life, our heartbreaks, our healing.
Aguilar’s family has yet to release full details on the funeral arrangements as of this writing, but one thing remains, his music will continue to sing our hearts, as Filipinos and bisag asa sa kalibutan.
