Pilita Corrales, the iconic Filipino singer and actress known as “Asia’s Queen of Songs,” passed away on April 12, 2025, at the age of 85. Her passing was announced on social media by her grandchild, Janine Gutierrez.

Born María del Pilar Garrido Corrales on August 22, 1939, in Lahug, Cebu, Pilita Corrales enjoyed a remarkable career spanning over six decades. She was celebrated for her unique vocal style, signature “backbend” during performances, and her significant contributions to Original Pilipino Music (OPM).

Pilita Corrales recorded 135 albums in multiple languages, including English, Filipino, Spanish, and Cebuano. Her 1963 hit “A Million Thanks to You” was one of the first local songs to top the Philippine charts. In 1972, she became the first Filipino artist to win at the Tokyo Music Festival.

Beyond music, Corrales made her mark in television and film, hosting the long-running show ‘An Evening with Pilita‘ and appearing in numerous movies. She was also a judge on ‘Philippine Idol‘ and the inaugural ‘Asian Idol.’

Pilita Corrales is survived by her children, Jackielou Blanco and Ramon Christopher Gutierrez, who both have made a name for themselves in the Entertainment industry. Her granddaughter, Janine Gutierrez, once part of the Kapuso network, is active in showbiz, as well.

Pilita Corrales leaves behind a rich legacy that has shaped the landscape of Filipino music and culture.

Following her passing, celebrities and public personalities honor Pilita’s memory and pay tribute to her lasting legacy.

Zsa zsa Padilla

Actress and singer Zsa zsa Padilla recalled her moments with her idol and inspiration, Pilita Corrales.

She wrote on social media, “I’ll never forget the first time we worked together–what an honor it was to finally get to know you beyond the icon I had long admired. You were always so candid, so funny, so full of life. I will miss your stories deeply.”

Jericho Rosales

Actor Jericho Rosales shared an Instagram Story remembering Pilita Corrales’s music, he wrote, “Her songs engraved in my mother’s heart. Beyond grateful for this artist.”

Jessica and Max Gutierrez

Jessica and Max Gutierrez, grandchildren of Pilita Corrales also announced their grandmother’s passing. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved mami and mamita, Pilita Corrales. Pilita touched the lives of many, not only with her songs but also with her kindness and generosity. She will be remembered for her contributions to the entertainment industry, but most of all for her love of life and family. Please join us with your prayers and kind thoughts as we celebrate her beautiful life.”

Janno Gibbs

Actor and musician Janno Gibbs remembers his moments with the late Pilita Corrales, “Honored to have recorded this duet version of her song. She was thrilled to make her 1st ever music video in her career. Love you Tapilits Your voice stayed golden till the end.”

Senator Grace Poe

Senator Grace Poe also extended her condolences to the family of Pilita Corrales. “Si Pilita ang halimbawa na ang tunay na ganda at talento ay hindi kumukupas sa pagdaan ng mga taon. Sa kanyang anim na dekada niya sa showbiz, nakatatak sa kaisipan ng mamamayang Pilipino ang kanyang natatanging istilo ng pagkanta at ang kanyang nakakahalinang liyad kapag tumataas ang mga nota. Ang kanyang 135 na album ay patunay ng kanyang matimbang na ambag sa musikang Pilipino. Isang milyong pasasalamat sa iyong kontribusyon sa sining at industriya at sa mabuting pagkakaibigan sa aming pamilya, Tita Pilita.”