OPM icon Freddie Aguilar dies at 72 due to multiple organ failure
Filipino music legend Freddie Aguilar has passed away at the age of 72 due to multiple organ failure. The news was confirmed by his former partner, Josephine Quiepo, in a message relayed by host Boy Abunda on 'Fast Talk with Boy Abunda.'
'Pumanaw na po ang OPM icon na si Freddie Aguilar sa edad na 72. Kinumpirma po ito sa amin ng kaniyang ex-partner at ina ni Maegan Aguilar na si Josephine,' Abunda said. He added that Aguilar died Monday night at the Philippine Heart Center.
Aguilar's wife, Jovie Albao, had previously posted updates from the hospital and expressed gratitude to those who offered prayers and concern for the singer's condition.
Freddie Aguilar is survived by his wife Jovie and his four children from a previous marriage: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko.
A towering figure in Original Pilipino Music (OPM), Aguilar is best remembered for his song 'Anak,' which gained international recognition and was translated into several languages. His other notable works include 'Bulag, Pipi At Bingi,' 'Mindanao,' 'Katarungan,' and 'Magdalena.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
an hour ago
- Sharjah 24
Nahyan bin Mubarak celebrates Philippine Independence in Dubai
The event, organised by 'Emirates Loves Philippines' with Dubai Police, welcomed over 40,000 attendees, including Filipino community members, diplomats, and UAE officials. Honouring Filipino contributions In his speech, Sheikh Nahyan congratulated the Filipino community and praised their impact on UAE society across healthcare, education, business, and the arts. He emphasized the shared values of the UAE and the Philippines—respect, optimism, and community. New writing initiative: 'What the UAE Means to Me' Sheikh Nahyan launched a new competition with Sandooq Al Watan, inviting residents to share stories, poems, or essays about life in the UAE. Open to all ages and nationalities, winning entries will be published and honored at a national event. Dignitaries and performances Philippine officials including Secretary Hans Cacdac, consuls, and UAE dignitaries attended. Stars from The Filipino Channel and UAE-based performers showcased Filipino talent through music, dance, and cultural presentations. A festival of culture and unity The 12-hour celebration featured live shows, food stalls, cosplay, raffles, and family activities. 'Kalayaan' served as a symbol of the strong UAE–Philippine friendship and the UAE's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Al Etihad
14 hours ago
- Al Etihad
Nahyan bin Mubarak attends 'Emirates Loves Philippines' celebration marking 127th Philippine Independence Day
1 June 2025 21:13 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended a major celebration marking the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence 'Kalayaan 2025.'Hosted at Dubai World Trade Centre and organised by the 'Emirates Loves Philippines' platform in collaboration with the Dubai Police, the event brought together over 40,000 members of the Filipino community in the UAE, along with government officials, diplomats, and social and economic figures from the community. Strong and growing UAE–Philippines relationship In his opening speech, His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak congratulated the Filipino community on this important national day and said, "I am delighted to be with you this evening to celebrate the 127th Anniversary of Philippine Independence.""On behalf of the people of the United Arab Emirates, I extend our heartfelt congratulations and warmest greetings to the people of the Philippines here and around the world. This day marks not only your independence, but your enduring spirit of resilience, community, and optimism. It is a day of pride, and one you have every reason to celebrate, said His Excellency."He added that the UAE is pleased to call the Philippines a close friend and valued partner. "Across this nation, and across the decades, hundreds of thousands of Filipino people have made their mark. Your knowledge, skills, creativity, and compassion have enriched many sectors of our society – from healthcare and education to hospitality, finance, entrepreneurship, and the arts."His Excellency emphasised that "although our two countries may be separated by geography, we are united by shared values: openness, optimism, mutual respect, and a belief in the dignity of every individual."He noted that the UAE's success story is a shared story. "We are a global crossroads. A place where more than 200 nationalities live and work side by side. A place where peace and prosperity are made possible by welcoming people from every walk of life."He affirmed that under the visionary leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and with the unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, and of all of our national leaders, the country has embraced human fraternity, coexistence, compassion, and achievement as national pillars."This celebration today,' His Excellency stated, 'is a reflection of that vision. It is a reflection of how the UAE honours every culture and every heritage that we host in our country, as well as the role that each community plays in building this great nation."He went on to say, 'In that spirit of inclusion, unity, and celebration, I would like to share with you a new national initiative that is very close to my heart.'Announcing the initiative, His Excellency said that as Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and in partnership with Sandooq Al Watan, a writing competition titled 'What the UAE Means to Me' has been clarified that this initiative, aligned with the Year of Community, is a call to every resident – young and old, citizens and expatriates, professionals and students – to share their story and their voice.'This competition,' he explained, 'invites participants to reflect on what the UAE has meant to them. Submissions can be a short story, a poem, a letter, an essay, or another creative expression, and written in either Arabic or English.'He expressed confidence that many of the most moving and powerful entries will come from the Filipino community – from those who arrived with a dream and built a future, from mothers and fathers raising families, from nurses and teachers, from innovators and caregivers, and from artists and engineers.'Your stories matter,' His Excellency emphasised, 'and the rest of us would love to hear from you.'He urged everyone to visit the website and submit their called on the audience, saying, 'Please encourage your families, your children, your co-workers, and your neighbours. Invite them to put into words their experience of life in the UAE. Let your stories inspire others, and let your words help express what makes our country so uniquely united in diversity.'He further stated that winning entries will be published in two commemorative book series, one in Arabic and one in English, and winners will be celebrated at a major national ceremony and will receive meaningful prizes."This is more than a competition," he concluded. "It is a legacy. It is a national expression of who we are, together."In closing, His Excellency reiterated his deepest thanks and warmest congratulations, saying that the Filipino community represents everything the UAE stands for: courage, generosity, family, achievement, and the belief that when we come together across cultures and borders, we can build a more tolerant, inclusive, and prosperous world.'As I look around this joyful celebration tonight,' he remarked, 'I see the colours, sounds, and soul of the Philippines, right here in the UAE. It makes me happy to stand with you. And it fills me with pleasure to be part of your celebration.' 'What the UAE Means to Me' Writing Competition The 'What the UAE Means to Me' writing competition, supported by the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence and Sandooq Al Watan invites UAE citizens and residents to share their personal stories and experiences, celebrating the nation's vibrant culture, heritage, and values of tolerance. Participants can submit entries in various formats—short stories, articles, Nabati and classical poetry, reflections, or letters, focusing on their connection to the UAE's cohesive community and national identity. This initiative aims to strengthen social bonds, promote cultural diversity, and foster pride in the UAE's unique qualities. Selected writings will be published and widely distributed, amplifying voices that embody the UAE's spirit of unity and coexistence, making it a meaningful contribution to community engagement and national pride. Full Day of Celebrations Also speaking at the event, Honourable Hans Cacdac, Secretary of the Department of Migrant Workers of the Philippines, added, "Kalayaan not only commemorates our independence but also highlights the strong partnership that enables Filipinos to contribute meaningfully to both nations." Supported by The Philippine Business Council - Dubai and Northern Emirates, Dubai Police, and Dubai Immigration, the event was further distinguished by the attendance of His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate for Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai. The event also saw the attendance of Honourable Arvic V. Arevalo, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi; Honourable Marford Angeles, Consul General of the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and Northern Emirates; and Manal Obaid Bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team of the UAE Food Bank. Performances by renowned artists from The Filipino Channel, including Kai Montinola, Jarren Garcia, Julia Barretto, and Mj Cayabyab of VIVAONE, electrified the crowd, showcasing the incredible talents of the Filipino event also featured cultural and modern performances from Filipino artists across the UAE, as well as contributions from Filipino businesses and small-scale entrepreneurs."Kalayaan is an event by the community for the community. It has become the ultimate showcase of the best of the Filipino spirit, uniting us all in celebration," said Elena C. Cruz, Founder and CEO of Infinite 12-hour celebration was a vibrant tribute to the Filipino spirit. Attendees enjoyed a wide range of cultural, musical, and traditional performances. The programme featured singing, folk dancing, kids' entertainment zones, cosplay shows, video gaming corners, art exhibitions, food stalls serving Filipino favourites, and a dedicated education area for Filipino included an exciting stunt bike, raffles, and the special 'Cargo Village' area, a space that brought together leading shipping companies under the umbrella of the Philippine Business event highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the UAE and the Philippines, and reflected the respect, appreciation, and space that the UAE gives to all communities living on its was a celebration of cultural diversity, tolerance, and the friendships that make the UAE a home for strong bond between the two countries predates official diplomatic relations, which were formally established on 19 August 1974. The Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi opened in 1980, followed by the UAE Embassy in Manila in 1989. Since then, bilateral cooperation has expanded significantly, and today the UAE is home to hundreds of thousands of Filipinos who play a vital role in many key sectors and in the country's continued development journey.
Filipino Times
14 hours ago
- Filipino Times
Philippine Independence Day celebration: Highlights at Kalayaan 2025 in Dubai
Thousands of Filipinos from across the UAE gathered at the Dubai World Trade Centre to mark the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence through Kalayaan 2025. Held on June 1, the annual celebration brought together community groups and leaders, cultural performers, public officials, and Filipino residents for a meaningful day of reflection, recognition, and unity. From inspiring messages and cultural showcases, Kalayaan 2025 served as a reminder of the strong Filipino presence and spirit abroad. Here are some of the key highlights from this year's celebration: Star-studded performances Flying in from the Philippines, celebrities Kai Montinola and Jarren Garcia of PBB Gen 11, actress Julia Barretto, and singer MJ Cayabyab joined the celebration to perform for overseas Filipinos. They delivered a variety of performances, including singing and dance numbers, that captivated the audience throughout the event. Kai Montinola and Jarren Garcia Julia Barretto MJ Cayabyab Parade of Filipino organizations Filipino schools, cultural groups, businesses, and community organizations joined a colorful parade that filled the venue with music, cheers, and pride. Many participants wore traditional outfits such as the Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana, embodying the rich .. of the occassion. Cultural and modern performances The event featured a range of performances—from folk dances to pop numbers, showcasing the blend of tradition and modernity that characterizes today's Filipino identity. Booths and exhibits Visitors explored booths offering Filipino food, art, products, and community services. Small businesses, local initiatives, and cultural craftsmanship, were also highlighted, giving attendees a chance to reconnect with familiar tastes and talents. PH and UAE leaders gracing Kalayaan 2025 During Kalayaan 2025, dignitaries from both the Philippines and the UAE delivered heartfelt messages celebrating the strength, resilience, and contributions of the Filipino community in the UAE. Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac expressed appreciation for the host country, saying, 'We have nothing but overflowing gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for giving our people a home—a meaningful home. A place where they can walk the walk of friendship, of productivity, of harmony. Where they can sing songs not just of Filipino culture, but also of Philippines-UAE friendship.' His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, highlighted the strong ties between both nations, stating, 'This day marks not only your independence, but your enduring spirit of resilience, community, and optimism. It's a day of pride and when you have every reason to celebrate, we at the UAE are pleased to call the Philippines a close friend and valued partner across this nation, across the decades.' Hon. Marford Angeles, Consul General in Dubai Mr. Arvic Arevalo, Deputy Head of Mission of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi Hon. Marford Angeles, Consul General in Dubai, and Mr. Arvic Arevalo, Deputy Head of Mission of the Philippine Embassy in Abu Dhabi, also recognized the large Filipino population in the UAE.
