Freddie Aguilar, OPM icon, dies at 72

Metro Manila, Philippines - OPM icon Freddie Aguilar has died at age 72.

His death was confirmed to NewsWatch Plus on Tuesday, May 27, by Governor Jun Tamayo, president of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), where Aguilar served as national executive vice president.

On May 22, Aguilar’s wife Jovie posted a photo of a coffee cup at the Philippine Heart Center with the caption: “Stay strong, things will get better. It may be stormy now, but it can't rain forever.” 

Aguilar’s daughter Shiaianne also said his father was giving his “best fight” in what appears battling a medical condition.

“it may be hard, but i know you have the strength and courage to face this,” Shiaianne wrote on Facebook. “please focus on getting better. we want you back at your best self. we are all here for you. love you!”

Aguilar was behind the song “Anak,” a folk-rock song reflective of Filipino family values. The hit sold 33 million copies worldwide, and was translated in 20 languages and released in 53 countries.

The folk singer was also known for his rendition of “Bayan Ko,” which became a protest anthem opposing the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in the 1970s.

In 2013, Aguilar, who was 60 years old at the time, converted into Islam and married then 16-year old Jovie Albao.

Media reports said there were ongoing preparations for Aguilar’s burial within 24 hours, in accordance with his Muslim faith.