Manila: Folk singer and songwriter Freddie Aguilar passed away on Tuesday at the age of 72. He was renowned in the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) scene for his influential songs and enduring contributions to Filipino music.

According to Philippines News Agency, Aguilar's wife, Jovie Albao, recently took to social media to announce his confinement at the Philippine Heart Center, though she did not disclose details regarding his condition. Aguilar is survived by his four children from a previous marriage: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko.

Freddie Aguilar was celebrated as an OPM icon, famed for timeless songs such as "Anak," "Magdalena," "Kumusta Ka," and "Ipaglalaban Ko." His musical legacy was further cemented last year when he received numerous accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement in Music Award at the Amerika Prestige Awards Hollywood, the Outstanding International Legendary Singer and Performer at the Southeast Asian Achievement Award, the Global Music Icon Award at the Amerika Music Awards Hollywood, and the Premier Achiever Remarkable Composer and Singer of the Year at the Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award.

Born in Santo Tomas, Isabela, Aguilar's musical journey began at the age of 14 when he started writing songs. His impactful music and contributions to the industry have left an indelible mark on both the local and international music scenes.