Ian De Leon Pays Sad Tribute to Mother Nora Aunor

On Wednesday, April 16, 2025, Philippine cinema’s “Superstar” Nora Aunor passed away at the age of 71. Her passing has brought great sadness to her family, fans, and the entire Philippine film industry.

One of Nora Aunor’s sons, Kristoffer Ian de Leon, gave a heartfelt message in memory of his mother. On his official Facebook page, Ian shared a colorful photo of his mother and gave a message full of love and gratitude.

According to Ian, his mother was the center of their family—a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. He described Nora as a kind, intelligent, and beautiful spirit who touched everyone who knew her. She added that the loss of her mother is a grief that cannot be measured in words and her memory will remain forever. Nora Aunor, who was born as Nora Cabaltera Villamayor on May 21, 1953, began her career as a singer and became famous for her films such as “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos,” “Ina Ka ng Anak Mo,” “Himala,” and “Thy Womb.” In her seven-decade career, she has produced more than 200 films and television shows, and has received numerous awards throughout her career.

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In 2022, Nora Aunor was awarded the title of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts by virtue of Proclamation No. 1390 signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte. This recognition is a testament to her contribution to the film and television industry in the Philippines.

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Ian de Leon’s message shows the depth of love and respect for her mother. Her words brought comfort and strength to fans and industry colleagues who are grieving the loss of a legend in the arts and film.

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Despite the sadness, the memory of Nora Aunor will continue to inspire future generations of Filipino artists and film fans. Her life and contributions to the arts will remain in everyone’s hearts.

‘It hurts’: Ian de Leon, emotional message to mother Nora Aunor
MANYILAH — Ian de Leon got emotional as he gave a message to his mother, Nora Aunor, the recognized “superstar” of Philippine showbiz.

In his live session on YouTube on Sunday, December 13, titled “The Bitter Truth,” Ian shared the reason why he didn’t show up to the party his mother had prepared for him for his birthday.

Ian celebrated his 45th birthday just last December 11.

Ian said he decided to give his side because of the hurtful words he received from other people.

According to Ian, he just wanted his reunion with his mother after a long time to be private.

“Mom, I love you so much. That won’t change. But it hurts. I can’t keep quiet anymore. Especially (for) my siblings,” Ian said.

“Let’s not play games anymore. First of all, even though our family is in the show business industry, my family and I prefer to be private. For me, all I want is for our occasions to be as a family, I want it to be just us. First of all, my mom called. I was so happy because we hadn’t spoken in years. I was so happy, we said I love you, we said I miss you. We talked. She planned to prepare for my birthday, which didn’t happen for a few years. I was truly happy, overfilled with joy. She even said, ‘Son, I’m sorry for all my shortcomings, for all my sins.’ And of course, as a son, I’m the same. ‘I’m sorry too, Mom,’” Ian admitted.

Ian admitted that he was hurt when after their phone conversation, his mother texted him to let him know that their meeting would be put on a vlog.

“Bitter truth: Your phone call hurt me. The next day you texted me, can I make a vlog of what we talked about,” said Ian.
“I know you were hurt, I hurt you because I didn’t show up. You prepared. Best effort Ma. Hands down, I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart,” said Ian.

Ian’s plea to the actress to be a mother to her siblings and a grandmother to her grandchildren.

“Ma, I know you’re watching. I’ll say it again, I love you very much. That will never change, Ma. I just beg you to give your family a chance. Give us the opportunity to take care of you, love you, and pamper you, every day. Please, Ma. Those people around you, get rid of them, they’re your family. I’m begging you, as your child, as your child who loves you,” said Ian.

“My only wish for my birthday is that you be Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, not Nora Aunor. I want your grandchildren to experience the love you can share. I want you to be with them while we still have strength,” Ian added.

Ian is Aunor’s son with her ex-husband Christopher de Leon.