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My Two New Angels: Janine Gutierrez Reflects On Losing Grandmothers Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor

by Alexa Villano
April 24, 2025

Janine Gutierrez thanked her followers for the support after losing her grandmothers, Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor, on April 12 and 16

It’s been a rollercoaster ride of emotions for the family of actress Janine Gutierrez in the last two weeks. After losing her grandmother, Pilita Corrales, whom she fondly calls Mamita, the family also had to contend with the death of their other grandmother, Nora Aunor.

Screenshot from Janine Gutierrez’s vlog

Grief During Holy Week

On her Instagram channel on April 23, Janine wrote that the day was the first time in 10 days that she was not in a wake, pointing out that they lost their grandmothers during Holy Week.

“My siblings and I lost two lolas, Mama and Papa’s mothers. Kakauwi lang namin galing sa wake ni Mamita ng mga alas kuwatro ng hapon ng April 16. Pagdating ng alas-diyes ng gabi, tumatawag na ulit yung kapatid ko sa chapel para naman kumuha ng kuwatro para kay Mama Guy,” she recalled.

“It’s been difficult and even unbelievable, but all throughout, you’ve helped us so much with your support and love,” she continued. “ Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers. We love you so much, everyone who sent a message, dropped by, or had us and our lolas in your mind.”

The Lavender Fields actress shared that she initially blocked the week to go on vacation until both grandmothers died. As she resumed work, Janine wrote that she was thinking of them.

“I think of my two new angels and how they powered through. I think of how I can continuously make them proud. It gives me comfort to know that there are many of us who will always have them in our hearts.”

Their Legacy Lives On

Pilita Corrales, known as Asia’s Queen of Songs, died on April 12 at 87. Her children Jackielou Blanco and Ramon Christopher, confirmed that she died in her sleep.

Nora Aunor, tagged as the country’s Superstar, passed away on April 16 at 71. Her son Ian de Leon confirmed that she died due to acute respiratory failure.

The Superstar was formally buried on April 22 at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani as part of her honor as National Artist for Broadcast and Film.

Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday, April 23, that Aunor, Corrales, along with the late actress Gloria Romero and chef Margarita “Gaita” Fores will be honored with the Presidential Medal of Merit, which will be awarded on May 4.