Pilita Corrales, Asia’s Queen of Songs, Dies at Age 85

Photo: Instagram/@pilitacorrales

Pilita Corrales, the famous Filipino pop singer, actress, and TV personality known as “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” has passed away at the age of 85. Her granddaughter, actress Janine Gutierrez, shared the sad news on Instagram on Saturday, April 12.

Janine wrote a heartfelt message saying, “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved mami and mamita, Pilita Corrales. Pilita touched the lives of many people, not just with her beautiful songs, but also with her kindness and generosity. She will be remembered for her work in the entertainment industry, but most of all for her love of life and family.”

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Pilita was born in Cebu City on August 22, 1939. She had a long and successful career that lasted over 60 years. She became famous for her powerful voice, timeless elegance, and her special move on stage where she would bend backward while singing. This move became famous and is closely linked with her name. Pilita’s popular songs included Kapantay ay Langit, A Million Thanks to You, Ang Pag-ibig ay Mahiwaga, and Dahil Sa'yo, which helped make her one of the biggest stars in the Philippines.

But Pilita’s influence went beyond music. She also became a beloved TV personality. She hosted a show called An Evening with Pilita and later helped young talent as a judge on Philippine Idol. Pilita also acted in movies with Filipino movie legends like Fernando Poe Jr. and Dolphy, making her an important part of Philippine culture.

In 1963, Pilita married Gonzalo Blanco, a Spanish businessman. They later separated, and Gonzalo passed away in 1981. Pilita is survived by her two children—actress Jackie Lou Blanco and actor Ramon “Monching” Christopher Gutierrez—who are both well-known in the entertainment world. Her granddaughter, Janine Gutierrez, is also continuing the family’s legacy in show business.

After hearing about Pilita’s death, many fans, friends, and fellow artists shared their tributes online. They remembered Pilita for her incredible talent, kindness, and warm personality. Actor Richard Yap shared that Pilita was a “wonderful person with so much light, love, and energy.” Actress Kristina Concepcion also said that Pilita was “loving, kind, spunky, and just wonderful.”

The family has not yet shared the details for Pilita’s funeral or memorial services.

Although Pilita’s voice is now silent, her music and the way she lived and performed will live on forever. Pilita Corrales was a true national treasure, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations.