Metro Manila — Tension arose during the wake of late music legend Hajji Alejandro as close family members reportedly barred singer-actress Alynna Velasquez from attending the first night of the vigil held in Quezon City.

The unexpected restriction shocked many in the entertainment industry, especially given Velasquez’s known history with Alejandro. Despite no official statement released by the family, witnesses claim that security personnel were instructed to deny Velasquez entry into the wake.

Sources close to Velasquez revealed that the actress arrived quietly around 7:30 p.m., dressed in black, and carrying white lilies. She was stopped at the gate by a private security team. Several attempts to clarify the reason for the restriction were allegedly met with silence.

“She didn’t argue. She just stood there for a while, trying to understand what was happening,” said one witness. “It was heartbreaking. She left without saying a word.”

Velasquez, known for her poise and grace, has maintained a low profile following the incident. Her management declined to issue a formal comment, saying only that she respects the wishes of Alejandro’s family during their time of mourning.

Speculation now surrounds the nature of her strained relationship with Alejandro’s immediate kin. Rumors have swirled in recent years about unresolved issues and personal misunderstandings between Velasquez and Alejandro’s children.

While the singer’s bond with Hajji Alejandro was never officially confirmed, many fans believed their friendship was deep and long-lasting. They were often seen together at musical events and award ceremonies, and Alejandro had once described Velasquez in an interview as “a woman of incredible spirit and soul.”

Fans took to social media to express sympathy for Velasquez, with hashtags like #LetAlynnaSayGoodbye and #RespectAlynna trending on local platforms. Many questioned the family’s decision, calling it unfair and “too harsh,” especially given the emotional significance of the event.

“She had every right to be there,” wrote one fan. “Alynna was part of his life. Denying her a chance to pay her respects was cruel.”

Others, however, defended the family, asserting that the wake is a deeply personal affair. “The family is grieving. We don’t know the full story,” commented another user.

As the wake continues throughout the week, some speculate that Velasquez may be allowed to attend on the succeeding nights. Others say she may choose to pay her respects privately, far from the public eye.

No confirmation has been made whether Velasquez will return. Insiders suggest that she is deeply hurt but unwilling to stir controversy during a sensitive time.

Friends of both Alejandro and Velasquez expressed disappointment over the turn of events. One longtime colleague described the situation as “tragic in every way,” adding, “In times like this, unity should matter more than pride.”

Hajji Alejandro, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 70, was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Original Pilipino Music (OPM). His death marks the end of an era in Filipino music.

The wake will be open to the public for the next four nights, with a private family service scheduled before the cremation.

Whether reconciliation between the Alejandro family and Alynna Velasquez will happen remains uncertain. For now, the silence from both parties continues to raise questions — and emotions — among those who loved and followed their intertwined legacies.