The grand halls of the Metropolitan Theater in Manila will echo with tributes and remembrances on Tuesday, 22 April 2025, as the Philippines prepares to bid a final farewell to the incomparable Nora Cabaltera Villamayor — more fondly known as Nora Aunor — National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts.

The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) have organized a necrological service to celebrate the extraordinary life and indelible legacy of the beloved "Superstar."

The day will begin with arrival honors at 8:30 AM, followed by a tribute program at 9:00 AM, where colleagues, admirers, and the nation will gather to honor the artist who graced the silver screen, television, and stage with unmatched talent and passion.

The solemn journey will culminate with state funeral rites at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, where she will be laid to rest among the country’s most revered heroes.

Nora Aunor, who passed away on 16 April 2025, at the age of 71, leaves behind a cinematic and cultural treasure trove that profoundly shaped the Philippine arts landscape. Her rags-to-riches story began with her captivating voice in amateur singing competitions, culminating in her victory at the iconic television talent show "Tawag ng Tanghalan" in 1967. This triumph, along with her appearances on "Darigold Jamboree," catapulted her to stardom and earned her the legendary title of "Superstar" of Philippine cinema.

Her filmography includes masterpieces that not only garnered critical acclaim but also resonated deeply with audiences. Films such as "Bona" (1980), which notably closed Cinemalaya 2024, "Himala" (1982), "Bulaklak sa City Jail" (1984), and "The Flor Contemplacion Story" (1995) — all featured in the CCP’s Cine Icons program — stand as testaments to her exceptional artistry and commitment to portraying the human condition with authenticity and depth.

In 2022, the Office of the President conferred upon her the Order of National Artist (Orden ng Pambansang Alagad ng Sining), the highest national recognition for Filipino individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of Philippine arts. This accolade cemented her status as a cultural icon and national treasure.

The public is warmly invited to participate in this momentous occasion at the Metropolitan Theater. Due to limited seating, interested attendees are encouraged to register through the link that will be released on Monday via the official social media pages of the CCP and NCCA.

For those unable to attend in person, the necrological service will be livestreamed on the official Facebook pages of both the CCP and NCCA, allowing everyone who wishes to pay their respects to join in honoring the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Nora Aunor. The nation mourns the loss of a true artist, but her contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.