Nora Aunor and Joel Lamangan. Image: File photo/Facebook

Renowned director Joel Lamangan paid tribute to his close collaborator and friend, the late Nora Aunor, by recalling not just her remarkable talent, but also her many acts of kindness. In a heartfelt tribute posted on his Facebook page, Lamangan shared a touching story about how Nora once helped an elderly farmer who was struggling after the death of his carabao, which he relied on for his farm.

In a post shared by ABS-CBN News, Lamangan recounted an unforgettable moment during the filming of Sidhi, where Nora was playing a mute role. During lunch, Nora pointed out an elderly farmer sitting under a mango tree. “Why are you alone, and why are you sad?” she asked the farmer. The old man shared with her that his carabao had died, leaving him unable to continue working his land.

Lamangan recalled Nora's immediate concern, asking, “How much does a carabao cost?” The farmer replied that it was about fifteen thousand pesos. Although they didn’t have the money to buy it, Nora quickly took action. She asked one of her companions to give her the amount and handed it to the farmer with the instruction, "Here’s my help to you, buy a new carabao, don’t tell anyone it came from me."

This story exemplifies Nora’s quiet generosity and her desire to help those in need, without seeking recognition. Lamangan also shared how she would often give money to underpaid crew members, ensuring that no one felt oppressed or unfairly compensated. “Ate Guy (Nora’s nickname) was always kind to everyone she worked with. She didn’t want anyone to be mistreated, especially the crew who were paid less,” Lamangan recalled.

He also mentioned a particular instance on the set of Flor Contemplacion, where Nora made sure to give money to the prisoners who had been part of the filming process at the Sta. Cruz City Jail. When the warden expressed concerns about the prisoners possibly escaping, Nora reassured him, saying, “I told them they should not escape.” In the end, none of the prisoners tried to flee, and the kindness she showed left a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Nora Aunor and Joel Lamangan’s Collaborative Work

Lamangan and Aunor had a long and fruitful collaboration in the film industry, working together on numerous films, including Muling Umawit ang Puso, Flor Contemplacion, Bakit May Kahapon Pa, Sidhi, Hustisya, and Isa Pang Bahaghari. Their professional relationship was built not only on shared creative goals but also on a deep personal bond.

Short Biography:

• Nora Aunor: Known as the "Superstar" of Philippine entertainment, Nora Aunor was a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts. She gained widespread recognition for her powerful acting and singing, starring in iconic films like Himala and Bona. Nora passed away on April 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that has greatly influenced Philippine cinema and music. She was widely admired for her talent, but also for her compassion and generosity.

• Joel Lamangan: A prominent Filipino director known for his impactful films, Joel Lamangan has worked with numerous celebrated stars, including Nora Aunor. Their collaborations have spanned decades, and Lamangan continues to honor Nora’s legacy both professionally and personally. His stories of Nora’s kindness reveal the heart of the superstar beyond her on-screen roles.

Nora Aunor’s passing is a loss to the Filipino entertainment industry, but her legacy of generosity, compassion, and artistic excellence lives on through the stories shared by those who knew her best.