Senator Christopher “Bong” Go expressed deep sorrow over the passing of National Artist and acclaimed actress Nora Aunor, who died on 16 April at the age of 71.

In a statement, Go extended condolences to the family, friends, and admirers of the Superstar, acknowledging her immense contribution to Philippine cinema and culture.

“Napakabigat po sa puso ang pagkawala ni Ate Guy. Sa kanyang mga mata, ramdam mo ang bawat kirot ng ating lipunan. Hindi siya artista lang — isa siyang institusyon, isang boses para sa mga tahimik na nakikipaglaban sa buhay,” said Go.

("It is heavy on the heart to lose Ate Guy. In her eyes, you can feel every pain of our society. She was not just an actress — she was an institution, a voice for those silently struggling in life.")

Aunor, who rose from humble beginnings in Iriga City to become one of Southeast Asia’s most acclaimed actresses, starred in over 170 films. Her performances in "Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos," "Himala," "Minsa’y Isang Gamu-Gamo," "Thy Womb," "The Flor Contemplacion Story," and "Dementia," among others, earned local and international acclaim.

Go, who witnessed Aunor’s conferment as National Artist by then-president Rodrigo Duterte in 2022, praised her as a symbol of the resilience and brilliance of the Filipino spirit. Aunor was also honored with international accolades, including Best Actress awards from the Asia Pacific Screen Awards and the Asian Film Awards.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is preparing a state necrological service to pay tribute to Aunor’s legacy in Philippine arts.

Go also recalled a Facebook post Aunor made on 29 March, where she praised his public service and compassion. “Siya po ang taong walang pinipiling lugar, walang pinipiling oras, at lalong walang pinipiling katayuan sa buhay ng isang tao,” Aunor wrote. “Hindi po pilit at higit po sa lahat ay SERBISYONG MAY MALASAKIT. Iyan po si Kuya Sen. Bong Go.”

("He is the person who does not choose a place, does not choose a time, and most especially does not choose the status of a person's life." "It is not forced, and most importantly, it is SERVICE WITH COMPASSION. That is Kuya Sen. Bong Go.")

The senator responded by saying her words continue to inspire him. “Maraming salamat po, Ate Guy. Napakalaking karangalan po ang inyong mga salita. Lalo po akong na-inspire na ipagpatuloy ang aking adbokasiya ng ‘bisyo ang magserbisyo’ — isang tapat at may malasakit na pagseserbisyo para sa ating mga kababayan,” he said.

("Thank you very much, Ate Guy. Your words are a great honor. I am even more inspired to continue my advocacy of 'service as a vice' — honest and compassionate service for our fellow Filipinos.")

Go also said he sees Aunor’s advocacy reflected in his work on public health and social welfare. “Nakikita ko po ang kahalagahan ng sining, kalusugan, at sports sa pagbabago ng buhay. Gaya ng iniambag ni Nora Aunor sa kultura, gusto ko pong mag-iwan ng ambag sa kalusugan at kabuhayan ng ating mga kababayan,” he said.

("I see the importance of art, health, and sports in changing lives. Just like what Nora Aunor contributed to culture, I also want to leave a contribution to the health and livelihood of our fellow Filipinos.")

“Maraming salamat po sa inspirasyon, Ate Guy. Isang karangalan na makilala ka at makasama sa ilang mahahalagang sandali ng iyong buhay. Isa kang huwaran na hindi matitinag,” Go added.

("Thank you very much for the inspiration, Ate Guy. It has been an honor to know you and be part of some important moments in your life. You are an unshakable role model.")