Lotlot de Leon Honors Mother Nora Aunor on 40th Day: ‘It’s Still Hard, Ma’

Forty days after the passing of her mother, legendary actress Nora Aunor, Lotlot de Leon took to Instagram to honor the woman who shaped not just her life, but an entire era of Philippine cinema. In a heartfelt tribute posted earlier this week, Lotlot expressed the lingering pain of losing her mother and the enduring love their family continues to carry for her.

Nora Aunor, a multi-awarded actress and National Artist for Film, passed away in April 2025 at the age of 71. Her son, Ian de Leon, earlier revealed that her death followed a medical procedure. Her passing was met with a national outpouring of grief, with tributes flooding in from colleagues, fans, and cultural institutions across the country.

In her emotional message, Lotlot shared that not a day has gone by without her thinking of her mother. Despite the 40-day mark, a significant period in Filipino mourning traditions symbolizing the soul’s final journey to the afterlife, the pain remains fresh.

“A simple and solemn gathering was held at your final resting place,” Lotlot wrote, referring to the family’s private memorial held at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, where Nora is buried. “The weather was kind—warm, but the breeze carried a gentle peace that comforted us. I know this is what you would’ve wanted—simple and solemn.”

The family was joined by a priest from Palawan who celebrated a special mass for Nora. According to Lotlot, it reminded her of the advice Nora once gave her and her siblings: “Magmahalan kayong lima, ha.” (“You five, love one another, okay?”)

“Ma, hanggang ngayon, yang bilin mo—susundin at isasabuhay namin. Sure na sure naman ’yan,” she added, promising that the family will continue to uphold the values their mother taught them.

Surrounded by flowers arranged by close friends and family, the solemnity of the occasion reflected the quiet grace with which Nora carried herself, both on- and off-screen. The actress was known not only for her powerful portrayals in films but also for her unwavering dedication to her craft and her deep love for her children.

Lotlot admitted that even after more than a month, the grief has not lessened. “It’s still hard, Ma,” she confessed. “There are moments when I have so much I want to say, I can’t put it into words.”

Still, amidst the sorrow, there is also acceptance. Lotlot shared that thinking of her mother being reunited with their grandmother brings her a sense of peace. “I know you’re in a better place—kasama na sila Lola—somehow, I find peace,” she wrote.

The post ended on a note of strength and resolve, with Lotlot affirming their commitment to honor Nora’s legacy, not just through remembrance but by embodying the values she lived by.

“Rest now, Mommy. Kakayanin namin ‘to. Kaya namin—dahil dala-dala ka pa rin namin sa puso namin,” she concluded.

Nora Aunor’s passing has left a void in Philippine cinema, but her influence endures—in her body of work, in the lives she touched, and in the hearts of her family. Through Lotlot’s moving tribute, it’s clear that Nora’s legacy lives on, not only as a cultural icon but as a deeply loved mother.