Freddie Aguilar Dies at 72: The Philippines Mourns

The Philippines music industry mourns as one of the music icons in the country, Freddie Aguilar, died on Sunday, May 25. He was 72. The bereaved family confirmed this heartbreaking news through ABS-CBN. The musician passed peacefully due to complications related to diabetes and hypertension. Aguilar’s loved ones surrounded him at a hospital in Quezon City.

Freddie Used His Music to Say What Others Couldn’t

Freddie will always be remembered whenever his hit song “Anak” is played. This song changed the music scene in 1978. It narrates the life of a teenager who leaves home as a teenager and the aftermath of his bad decisions. The track captured the pain of parental regret and generational gaps, resonating with families across cultures. It became the most commercially successful Filipino song ever, with versions recorded in over two dozen languages and an estimated 30 million copies sold globally.

‘Bayan Ko’ Became His Anthem for Freedom and Resistance

Aguilar was also known for writing songs that challenged power during the Marcos years. His iconic “Bayan Ko” became an anthem of resistance, played during rallies and at the funeral of Ninoy Aquino. During the 1986 People Power Revolution, his music echoed through crowds demanding change. Through his lyrics, he tackled poverty, corruption, and injustice—topics many were too afraid to speak about.

Through the years, Aguilar remained committed to using music as a platform for social change. His songs often addressed themes of nationalism, social justice, and Filipino identity, influencing generations of artists and activists. His contributions to Filipino music and society have left an indelible mark. His legacy continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.