Stars’ heartfelt tribute to a celebrated icon
With a career that spanned over seven decades, Pilita Corrales wasn’t just a celebrated icon — she was a mentor, a mother figure and a source of strength and inspiration to generations of Filipino artists. Her unmistakable voice, her signature backbend and her warmth have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege to know and work with her. Today, the industry pauses to reflect on her immeasurable impact as celebrities share their heartfelt messages of gratitude and love.
MARTIN NIEVERA
“Thank you for giving me my first pair of wings. Because of you, I could fly into my dreams.”
Martin Nievera reminisced about how Pilita Corrales played a pivotal role in the early days of his career. With deep gratitude, he credited her for giving him the encouragement and inspiration to believe in himself.
“You were the very first to show me what it meant to dream without fear. Your encouragement gave me the courage to reach for the stars. Now, I ask the entire showbiz industry to join me in doing the ‘Pilita bend’ — not just a signature move, but a symbol of your grace and power. Today, we bend in honor of a woman whose presence commanded respect and radiated love. A million thanks to you, Tita Mamita. I will never forget our last duet. That memory will live with me forever.”
DINGDONG AVANZADO
“’Kapantay ay Langit’ was the first OPM song I ever learned to sing.”
Dingdong shared how Pilita’s music planted the seeds of his love for Original Pilipino Music.
“Her elegance on stage was only matched by her humility off stage. I admired her even more when I met her during our Kundirana days. She was always so supportive, offering her time and wisdom. But what I cherished most were our conversations, especially as fellow Bisaya — we connected deeply, and she always listened with genuine interest. She never looked down on anyone; she made everyone feel special. Pilita Corrales inspired me to pursue a career in music and taught me that true artistry is found in humility and heart. We’ve lost a legend, but heaven has gained a voice that never fades. Rest well, Tita Pilita. Your light will always shine through your music.”
CES DRILON
“When I sing, I give my all,” Pilita told Ces in a 2012 interview.
Ces shared a rare glimpse of Pilita behind the scenes — strong, elegant and deeply human.
“She was the heart and soul of every performance. Her story is a testament to resilience — beginning her singing career at 16, stepping up for her family after her father’s sudden passing. She was a woman of strength, dignity and grace. Even as a celebrated icon, she remained grounded, warm and welcoming. Her home was filled with music, laughter and love. Her life, her voice and her legacy will forever be woven into the cultural fabric of our nation. Rest in peace, Pilita. Your voice may be silent now, but your song lives on.”
JODI STA. MARIA
“You brought life, laughter, and kindness into every room.”
Jodi Sta. Maria described working with Pilita as an unforgettable blessing.
“You had the rare ability to make everyone feel seen and valued. Even with your legendary status, you were never distant. You made us laugh with your stories, taught us with your wisdom and touched our lives with your kindness. You were a living legend who never lost sight of the human connection. Working with you was one of the greatest gifts of my life. Thank you, Mommy La. Your memory will live in our hearts, always.”
SOFRONIO VASQUEZ
“’Kapantay ay Langit’ will always be one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever heard.”
Sopronio recalled singing Pilita’s classic hit during the pandemic as a form of comfort and connection.
“No one else could sing it like she did. Her voice had the power to heal, to uplift and to connect. Sharing my cover again today is my way of saying thank you — for the melodies, for the memories and for the soul you poured into every performance. You weren’t just a singer; you were a storyteller who gave voice to our joys and heartbreaks. Thank you, Ms. Pilita, for the music. Thank you for inspiring so many of us.”
BERNADETTE SEMBRANO
“The strength of a woman lives on in her daughter.”
Bernadette focused on the legacy of Pilita through her daughter, Jackie Lou Blanco.
“Pilita Corrales was more than an icon — she was a survivor, a fighter and a beacon of unconditional love. Jackie Lou often reflects on the unimaginable strength her mother carried, facing life’s hardships with grace. Whenever Jackie Lou finds herself in doubt, she asks, ‘What would Mama do?’ — and that alone gives her the courage to carry on. Through her daughter, Pilita’s light continues to shine. We don’t just remember her for her music — we honor her for her strength and love. Rest in peace, Pilita. Your story continues through every life you touched.”
JOEY ALBERT
“Your heart was too big for this world.” Joey’s words were simple yet powerful a quiet goodbye to a woman who inspired generations.
“You were our North Star in the industry — a guide, a mentor and a mother to many of us. The void you leave is immeasurable, but your spirit remains. ‘A Million Thanks,’ Tita Pilita — for showing us what it means to live with purpose and sing with soul.”
JERICHO ROSALES
“It was a great honor to have met her.”
Jericho spoke on behalf of fans and loved ones alike.
“Her music was the soundtrack of my mother’s life. And through Janine, I came to know how deeply loved and respected she was. Her voice went beyond melodies — it carried memory, meaning and legacy. To the family of this incredible woman, I offer my deepest condolences and love.”
ZSA ZSA PADILLA
“Dearest Tita Pilita… Thank you for your greatness.”
Zsa Zsa shared a moving tribute to someone she admired and eventually called a friend.
“From the moment I met you, I knew I was in the presence of greatness. But what touched me most was your humor, your honesty, and the way you made everyone feel like family. You taught me not just about music, but about life. You reminded me to laugh, to love and to always give my best. I will never forget the warmth of your embrace and the wisdom of your words. You live on in every note we sing and every story we tell. Maraming salamat. I love you, Tita Pilita.”
JAYA
“Mamita… you changed my life.”
In a deeply emotional tribute, Jaya poured out her heart.
“You believed in me when no one else did. When I had lost hope, you gave it back to me. You lifted me up, sheltered me and gave me love without condition. You opened your home, your heart and your life to me — and I am forever changed because of you. Behind the icon was a friend, a sister, a mother who listened, laughed and cried with me. Living with you, singing with you and simply being by your side were the most precious chapters of my life. I will carry your love with me forever. Rest now, Mamita, in the arms of our Heavenly Father. I love you, endlessly.”
Pilita Corrales was not just Asia’s Queen of Songs — she was the heart of Philippine music. Her legacy of artistry, strength and love will live on for generations. As her voice echoes through the songs that shaped a nation, we say, with one voice:
A million thanks, Mamita. Rest in everlasting harmony.
