Renowned Filipino folk musician and singer-songwriter Ferdinand Pascual Aguilar or most known as Freddie Aguilar has passed away at the age of 72 on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
According to a report by RH Val Gonzales, musician and close friend of Aguilar, Anthony Castillo confirmed to DZRH that the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) legend died at around 1:00 a.m.
Aguilar was reportedly accompanied by his assistant, Ka-Nelson, and family members at the Philippine Heart Center at the time of his passing.
Shortly afterward, George Briones, general counsel of the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas (PFP), also confirmed Aguilar’s death.
Aguilar’s music career spanned over five decades, beginning in 1973 when he performed in local folk venues and bars such as the iconic Hobbit House in Ermita, Manila.
He rose to national and international prominence with his heartfelt songs that touched on themes of family, patriotism, and social justice.
Among his most celebrated works are the iconic hit “Anak,” which was translated into 27 languages and released in over 50 countries, and his rendition of “Bayan Ko."
In recognition of his contributions to Filipino culture, Aguilar was appointed as a commissioner of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) by then-President Rodrigo Duterte in July 2016. He was later named Presidential Adviser on Culture and the Arts, where he advocated for the promotion of Filipino heritage and values.
Aguilar’s family is expected to release further details regarding the passing of the OPM icon.
