Kenneth de Leon’s Emotional Tribute to Nora Aunor: A Son’s Final Words That Touched a Nation

Kenneth de Leon, the youngest adopted son of the late Superstar Nora Aunor, delivered a heartfelt eulogy that moved mourners to tears during the actress’s memorial service. Known for being the most affectionate among Nora’s children in her final years, Kenneth’s words reflected not only his deep personal loss but also the immense gratitude he felt toward the woman who raised him as her own.

A Quiet Son, A Loud Tribute of Love

Unlike his more public siblings Lotlot, Matet, and Ian de Leon, Kenneth has mostly lived his life out of the spotlight. However, those close to the Aunor family know how strong his bond was with Nora, especially in her later years. His loyalty and care did not go unnoticed — in a 2020 vlog, Nora Aunor herself tearfully thanked Kenneth for staying by her side through emotional family challenges.

In his eulogy, Kenneth began humbly, thanking everyone who came to honor his mother. Then, with a voice trembling from grief yet grounded in love, he addressed Nora directly:

“Ma, thank you.
Thank you for choosing to raise me even when you didn’t have to.
Thank you for every meal, every reminder, every quiet act of love that helped shape the man I am today.
You were my strength, Ma. Even when you were tired, you were my mother in every way that mattered.”

His words resonated with the crowd, many of whom were visibly emotional. As Kenneth continued, he reminded everyone of the quiet but powerful love that often goes unseen — the daily sacrifices, the silent strength of a mother, and the unconditional bond between a parent and child.

“Ma, it hurts to let go, but I know you’re finally resting now.
I will carry you with me—in how I live, in how I love, and in how I move forward.
Rest easy now, Ma. We love you always. I love you.”

The Family Dynamic and a Hint of Humor

After the emotional tribute, Kenneth lightened the mood by calling on his siblings to take the stage. In a touching and slightly humorous moment, he teased the absence of Kiko:

“So… where is Kiko now? Matet too. Oh—hello, sis. I don’t think he’s coming. Maybe after 100 years, we’ll still be here waiting for our brother.”

The mix of grief and levity gave a full picture of a grieving family — human, raw, but united in their love for the woman who gave them all so much.

He also acknowledged Senator Robin Padilla, who prepared a special tribute video for Nora Aunor, which was to be shown later that evening.

A Creative Legacy

While Kenneth is not a household name like some of his siblings, there are rumors that he may be John Kenneth de Leon — the credited head writer and creator of the 2025 TV series Slay, starring Matet de Leon. If true, this would be a powerful continuation of Nora’s artistic legacy through the next generation.

Regardless of his public visibility, one thing is certain: Kenneth de Leon was one of Nora Aunor’s greatest sources of comfort and love during her final years. His tribute was not just a son’s goodbye — it was a reminder to the world of the quiet devotion that defines true family.

As the lights dimmed and the tribute video played, Kenneth’s words lingered in the air:

“I will carry you with me… in how I live, in how I love, and in how I move forward.”