Iriga City: In Iriga City in Camarines Sur, where Nora Aunor was born, the Philippine flag was lowered to half-mast on Monday morning as Bicolanos mourned the passing of the legendary "Superstar," whose voice and filmography captivated an entire nation for generations.
According to Philippines News Agency, when dusk came, family, friends, and fans gathered at the plaza to celebrate the life and legacy of its brightest star, whose brilliance lifted Iriga from the shadows, thrusting the city into the spotlight as the soil that birthed the country's National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts. Mayor Wilfredo Rex Oliva expressed in Filipino how she inspired generations through her talent and humility.
Renowned Bicolano author Frank Pe±ones Jr., also from Iriga, emphasized that no one can match Nora Aunor's artistry. Her rise to stardom-from a young girl selling water by the Bicol Express train station to a national sensation after winning Tawag ng Tanghalan in 1967-has inspired many to pursue their dreams. Her entry into the film industry at a time when it favored the typical mestiza opened doors for morena artists, making her a local icon in her hometown.
As Pe±ones Jr. revealed in his latest work, "Iriga: Essays and Selected Poems," Nora's name has become synonymous with perfect timing in local lingo. Her nickname 'Guy' might have originated from the Bicolano word 'migay,' meaning friend, as shared by her classmates.
Shirley Maloles, chair of the Performing Arts Department at Bicol University, praised Nora's artistry as the gold standard. Her subtlety in acting and natural singing voice were seen as gifts, not needing exaggeration to impress. Bicolano theater icon Julio Mendoza echoed these sentiments, highlighting her boldness in taking on challenging roles that provoke thought and invite meaningful discussions.
Veteran Bicol-based journalist Anacito Dematera noted that despite the spotlight, Nora never forgot her roots, speaking her native language with pride. Ramil Chavenia, chair of the Humanities Department at Bicol University, highlighted Nora's use of her star power to spotlight Bicol's culture and identity, particularly in the 2016 film Hinulid.
Nora Aunor remains Bicol's most treasured star, a description fitting for the native daughter of Iriga who conquered the spotlight as Philippine cinema's most awarded actress. Though her light may have dimmed, her legacy will remain in the collective memory of Filipinos.
