Janine Gutierrez with her Grandmas – Asian’s Queen of Songs, Ms.Pilita Corrales and Philippine “Superstar” and National Artist, Nora Aunor. – Photo Courtesy of Janine Gutierrez, Nora Aunor and Pilita Corrales Facebook.
The celebrated actress pays tribute to the two towering matriarchs who helped shape her life, her artistry, and a nation’s cultural history.
In an emotionally charged week that left much of the Filipino entertainment world in mourning, actress Janine Gutierrez experienced the unimaginable: the passing of both her grandmothers—Nora Aunor and Pilita Corrales—within just four days of each other.
The twin losses come not only as a personal tragedy for Janine, but as a cultural reckoning for an industry shaped by these two women.
As artists, they were national treasures. As matriarchs, they were guiding lights to their family and grandchildren.
On April 12, Pilita Corrales—Asia’s Queen of Songs—passed away peacefully at the age of 85.
Four days later, on April 16, the nation was stunned by the passing of Nora Aunor, the Superstar of Philippine cinema and a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, at 71.
Two Grandmothers, Two Legacies
Janine Gutierrez’s family tree reads like a who’s who of Philippine entertainment royalty.
She is the daughter of actor Ramon Christopher Gutierrez, son of Pilita Corrales and Eddie Gutierrez. Her mother, actress Lotlot de Leon, is the adoptive daughter of Nora Aunor and Christopher de Leon.
Through her grandmothers, Janine inherited not just fame, but two distinct legacies: Corrales’ international musical acclaim and commanding stage presence, and Aunor’s deeply resonant storytelling that transformed Philippine cinema.
Pilita Corrales was the first Filipino artist to perform at the Sydney Opera House and among the earliest to break into international markets including Latin America and Australia. She became a beloved fixture on Philippine television and live performances, endearing audiences with her signature back-bending bow, impeccable comedic timing, and multilingual songs that showcased her global appeal.
Nora Aunor—a five-time FAMAS Best Actress awardee, Gawad Urian Hall of Famer, and officially proclaimed National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts—captivated audiences with unforgettable performances in Himala, Bona, and Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos.
Rising from humble beginnings, she became not only one of the most decorated and revered actors in Philippine history, but also a symbol of artistic excellence and national pride.
A Granddaughter’s Grief and Gratitude
Photo credit – Janine Gutierrez/instagram
Janine turned to social media to share her grief and gratitude, beginning with a heartfelt tribute to Pilita Corrales:
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved Mami and Mamita, Pilita Corrales,” she wrote on April 13.
“Pilita touched the lives of many, not only with her songs but also with her kindness and generosity. She will be remembered for her contributions to the entertainment industry, but most of all for her love of life and family.”
Just days later, Janine honored Nora Aunor with a loving message she posted on April 17:
“With sorrowful hearts, we share the passing of our grandmother, Mama Guy. A treasure to our family but truly always more to the people than ours. She had a life of giving her immeasurable love to everyone she touched whether on screen, through music, or in person. We find comfort in knowing she, the one and only Superstar, will be forever loved.”
In past interviews, Janine has spoken about how both women inspired her artistic journey.
She reminisced about playing dress-up in Pilita’s walk-in closet, donning sequined gowns and high heels.
Of Nora, she recalled being awestruck watching her grandmother transform into powerful characters on screen, while remaining loving and grounded at home.
Preserving Their Legacies
Even before her grandmothers’ passing, Janine had begun producing a documentary about Pilita Corrales—an effort now carrying even more weight. “She gave so much to the world,” Janine said in a recent interview. “I want to make sure her story is told with the same beauty and joy she brought to so many lives.”
As for Aunor, Janine encourages younger generations to watch her films—not just for entertainment, but as powerful cultural narratives. “She reflected who we are as a people. And that’s something we should never forget.”
The World Mourns With Her
Tributes have poured in from every corner of the industry.
Actress and Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos, once considered Aunor’s cinematic rival, called her “a national treasure whose brilliance will never be dimmed.”
Artists across generations paid tribute to Pilita Corrales, remembering her as a trailblazer who brought elegance and excellence to every performance.
The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) has confirmed that Nora Aunor will be honored with state necrological services and a state funeral, underscoring her enduring contribution to the country’s cultural identity.
Carrying the Torch
Janine Gutierrez, herself an award-winning actress—having won Best Actress at both the FAMAS and Gawad Urian Awards—now stands at the crossroads of public mourning and personal memory.
While the world honors her grandmothers’ legacies, Janine carries them forward, both through her work and through the stories she continues to share.
Aside from her acclaimed work as an actress, Janine is also a proud college graduate. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in European Studies from the Ateneo de Manila University—one of the Philippines’ most prestigious academic institutions.
Her academic background reflects a well-rounded foundation that goes beyond the entertainment spotlight. Janine has often spoken about the importance of education, particularly for young women pursuing careers in the arts, emphasizing that intellect and curiosity can—and should—coexist with creativity.
Her grandmothers, who were not only icons but also lifelong learners in their own right, would no doubt be proud—not just of her artistic achievements, but of the woman of depth, substance, and integrity she has become. Their influence is imprinted in the way Janine walks through the world—with poise, heart, and purpose.
“Grief this deep means the love was even deeper,” she wrote.
“And that love, I’ll carry for the rest of my life.”
