FREDDIE AGUILAR’S ESTATE: WILL HIS CURRENT WIFE RECEIVE EVERYTHING OR WILL HIS CHILDREN HAVE A CLAIM TOO?

MANILA, Philippines – The death of Freddie Aguilar, the legendary OPM artist behind timeless classics like “Anak,” has not only left the nation grieving but has also raised pressing legal questions about the future of his estate. At 72, Aguilar passed away on May 27, 2025, leaving behind a complex family structure and a substantial legacy that includes real estate, royalties, and intellectual property rights. As fans pay tribute to the music icon, many are now wondering: Who inherits his wealth?

Aguilar was survived by his wife, Jovie Albao, whom he married under Islamic rites in 2013 after his conversion to Islam. Their relationship was both romantic and controversial, particularly due to their significant age difference. But Jovie is just one part of the inheritance equation. Freddie Aguilar had multiple relationships and six children from three different women. Among them are his children from a previous marriage: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko — all of whom may be entitled to a share of his estate.

Understanding the Legalities of Inheritance in the Philippines

Philippine inheritance law is rooted in the Civil Code, which strictly protects the rights of “compulsory heirs” — the surviving spouse, legitimate children, and even illegitimate children who have been recognized. The law ensures that these heirs receive what’s legally called the “legitime,” a guaranteed share of the estate that cannot be denied, even by a will.

Here’s how the estate would typically be divided:

Legitimate children: They receive a large portion of the estate and are entitled to equal shares.

Surviving spouse: Jovie Albao qualifies as a compulsory heir and is entitled to a share equal to that of one legitimate child.

Illegitimate children: If Aguilar had other recognized children born out of wedlock, they too are considered compulsory heirs. However, their share is typically half of what a legitimate child would receive.

This means Jovie Albao, despite being Aguilar’s legal wife, cannot inherit the entire estate. The law guarantees that all compulsory heirs — children both legitimate and illegitimate — will get their rightful portions.

What If Freddie Aguilar Left a Will?

Should there be a last will and testament, it would only have control over the “free portion” of the estate. For example, if half of Aguilar’s estate is reserved for the compulsory heirs, then the remaining half can be distributed according to his wishes — whether to friends, foundations, or specific beneficiaries like Jovie.

However, if no will exists, the estate will be divided according to intestate succession, meaning the law strictly outlines who gets what. In this case, each heir’s legal status (legitimate or illegitimate) plays a critical role in determining their share.

Royalties and Intellectual Property Rights

One of the most valuable assets Aguilar leaves behind is the copyright and royalties to his music catalog. His song “Anak” alone has been recorded in over two dozen languages and continues to generate income. These intellectual property rights will be inherited just like physical assets and will be a key component of the estate.

Complex Family Structures, Complicated Divisions

Aguilar’s life reflected a diverse and complex family structure — a reality for many Filipino families. With children from multiple partners and a spouse from a later marriage, it’s likely that the estate settlement will require careful legal navigation. Each child must be legally recognized to claim their share, and disputes can arise if any of the relationships are contested.

A Shared Legacy, Not a Sole Ownership

While the love story between Freddie Aguilar and Jovie Albao captivated many, the law ensures that his wealth is not passed on to one person alone. Instead, his estate — including future royalties — will be shared among his recognized heirs, preserving his legacy across the multiple generations he influenced and nurtured.

As the legal proceedings unfold, one thing remains certain: Freddie Aguilar’s cultural impact transcends his personal life. His music, spirit, and now his estate will continue to echo through the lives of those he left behind — not just through sentiment, but through legal entitlement.

How do you feel about the fairness of inheritance laws in cases involving multiple partners and children?