Nora Aunor and John Rendez. Image: Instagram/@janinegutierrez, YouTube/Julius Babao UNPLUGGED
John Rendez candidly revealed his emotional journey coping with the death of his “soulmate,” the iconic Nora Aunor, while also disclosing the unwelcoming atmosphere he experienced during the late superstar’s burial.
In a heartfelt interview with broadcaster Julius Babao on May 22, 2025, Rendez shared, “I’m moving on. I’m trying to stay positive. Dealing with the loss of someone you love is never easy.” He added, “But after the grief, there comes a kind of a liberating feeling when you find something to hold on to like the Lord. This has brought me closer to God.
Rendez was with Aunor in her final moments and expressed regret about medical decisions, saying, “Mali kami, hindi dapat siya nagpa-[angioplasty] e… Kung kailan na-opera, do’n pa siya kinuha.” (“We were wrong. She should not have undergone angioplasty. Even when she underwent surgery, she still died.”) He acknowledged, “You don’t know what God has planned. It’s just God’s will.”
When asked about his attendance at Aunor’s burial, Rendez admitted, “Pumunta ako do’n. Kaso lang, parang ano e, parang feeling ko hindi ako welcome.” (“I went there but it felt like I was not welcome.”) He elaborated, “I don’t know. When you walk into a room and people are looking at you like, ‘What’s he doing here?’ What do you think I’m doing here? I didn’t feel like I was welcome there so I just stood outside with the fans.”
Despite feeling hurt, Rendez accepted the situation: “Hindi naman ako mapapel. Hinahayaan ko lang sila… Nasaktan din ako pero okay lang ‘yan. Naiintindihan ko sila.” (“I am not seeking attention. I just let them. I was hurt but it was okay. I understand them.”)
Following Aunor’s passing, Rendez focused on his mission to care for her family, emphasizing the importance of extending love beyond the individual. “When you love someone, that love should also extend to their family. If you can’t do that, that means you only love yourself,” he explained. “I love her, I love her family and she also loved mine. It’s not a selfish love.”
Regarding his 34-year relationship with Aunor, Rendez described it as “friendship and mutual respect,” saying, “The people, they adore her. I [also] adore her.” When Babao asked why he considered Aunor his soulmate, he responded, “Because maybe in another life, it was reversed—I was older and she was younger. It’s like we knew each other already. After 34 years, what kind of relationship do you think would develop? It’s not something you can fake for 34 years.”
Rendez also expressed his affection for Aunor’s children, calling them “family” and stating, “In my heart, I’ll always have love and compassion for them. I have never said nothing bad about them, and I never will because I have respect for the family.”
Nora Aunor, known as the “Superstar” of Philippine cinema, had a remarkable career spanning over five decades with more than 170 films. She was named National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022. She passed away on April 16, 2025, due to acute respiratory failure, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
John Rendez is a singer and actor who shared a close and long-standing relationship with Nora Aunor, often referring to her as his soulmate. Their bond lasted over three decades, marked by deep mutual respect and affection.
Lotlot de Leon has retained legal counsel to protect the privacy and reputation of her late mother, Nora Aunor, amid growing concerns over harmful online narratives targeting their family.
Ian de Leon urges the public to respect his family’s privacy regarding the estate of his late mother, Nora Aunor, as the family commemorates 40 days since her passing.
Social media quickly buzzed with fans expressing their enthusiasm.
The rumors about Rodriguez and Fernando gained momentum after a photo of the two surfaced on social media, where they were seen posing in front of a luxury car, with Rodriguez holding a bouquet of flowers.
Here’s a look at some of the Filipino stars who heated up the Cannes red carpet and joined the fashion elite during the event.
Krishan is the second to bring home the Miss Aura International crown in the Philippines.
De Belen shared her unforgettable experience on Instagram, posting photos and clips of the moment she spent with the beloved Hallyu star
Actress Lotlot de Leon recently stirred speculation online after posting cryptic messages about lies and truth on her Instagram Stories
John Rendez expresses deep sorrow over the passing of his dear friend and beloved superstar, Nora Aunor. Despite the passage of time, the loss remains a painful reality that he continues to cope with.
Ruffa Gutierrez opens up about her perspective on marriage and her current relationship with Herbert Bautista
During a playful yet challenging segment on Sarap Di Ba?, Zoren Legaspi faced a tricky question about his ex-girlfriends posed by his wife Carmina Villarroel, leading to a humorous but revealing exchange.
Just months after welcoming their first child, Derek Ramsay jokingly hints at a second baby, but Ellen Adarna quickly shuts down the idea. Their playful exchange sparks mixed reactions among fans.
Ruffa recalled her very first jewelry investment, which was a platinum Rolex when she was just 17.
Fans and attendees express disappointment over the recent BINI concert in Dubai, cr!ticizing the production quality and setup. An insider points to organizers as the root cause of the underwhelming experience.
Social media personality Meiko Montefalco confronts her husband’s infidelity with undeniable proof, ending any hopes of reconciliation. A raw glimpse into heartbre@k, forgiveness, and final closure.
After years of turmoil, Baron Geisler and Nadia Montenegro have found a way to co-parent their daughter Sophia, who is now under Baron’s care and set to enter college. A story of healing, responsibility, and unexpected hope.
So far, Gravidez has advanced to the Top 32 in the Sports Challenge and the Top 24 in the Talent Challenge.
Gabbii thanked each and every one of those who helped, accompanied, and loved her during her more than a decade in show business.
The combination of rice, flaxseed, and other nourishing ingredients offers numerous benefits, from boosting hydration to fighting free radicals and improving skin texture. Follow this routine consistently, and you’ll be on your way to achieving the cove
The liver is an important detoxifying organ of the body. However, some familiar vegetables in daily meals can become silent 'enemies,' harming the liver if not used properly.
Discover the inspiring life of Ruby Middleton Forsythe, a dedicated educator who shaped the future of African-American children in South Carolina, teaching for over six decades despite adversity.
Discover the inspiring story of a 14-year-old girl who took the initiative to get a job, worked hard, and is saving for her future. Learn how determination and responsibility are shaping her dream to become a doctor.
Having breast cancer but not going to the hospital for treatment, instead opting for honeybee stings at home, the woman in Ho Chi Minh City has to bear the heavy consequences as the tumor complicates and metastasizes to many places.
A family's challenging flight with a crying 4-month-old was transformed by the extraordinary kindness of a WestJet flight attendant. Discover this heartwarming story of empathy and going above and beyond in customer service.
Discover the powerful story of Sharon, a mother-in-law whose quiet resilience and unwavering love carried her family through cancer, caregiving, and grace under pressure.
An elderly customer's request for a $10 withdrawal led to a viral moment of hidden wisdom. This compelling story reveals how patience and respect for elders can transform interactions, offering a powerful lesson in customer service and human dignity.
By incorporating these DIY treatments into your routine, you can achieve healthier, shinier, and fuller hair—without relying on harsh chemicals or expensive products.
Some hereditary cancers related to genetic mutations, such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer, can be managed and screened early thanks to genetic counseling.
Discover the extraordinary life of Katherine Swynford, from a lady-in-waiting to a duchess, her deep love story with John of Gaunt, and the lasting impact of her children, the Beauforts, on English history.
If you continuously experience headaches, loss of appetite, dry cough, and continuous weight loss... you need to see a doctor immediately as this could be a sign of cancer.
A wife and mother of three, balancing work, school, and household chores, snaps when her family constantly complains about household upkeep. She tells them to step up or deal with it themselves, but now doubts if she went too far.
A heart-wrenching tale of unrequited love, friendship, and heartbreak. After being invited to her best friend's wedding, the protagonist walks out when their shared song is played, leading to a painful confrontation and emotional aftermath.
By using these DIY recipes consistently, you can enjoy smoother, firmer, and more youthful skin, without the need for expensive creams and treatments.
A bridesmaid feels conflicted about skipping her best friend’s bachelorette party at a waterpark due to her insecurities about being overweight and unable to fully participate. Is she wrong for not going?
By incorporating these detox water recipes into your daily routine, you can achieve glowing, clear, and hydrated skin.
A mother struggles with guilt and frustration after not inviting her neighbor’s autistic son to her toddler’s birthday party. The situation unfolds into a difficult conversation about sensitivities, boundaries, and the pressures of social expectations
A family BBQ, a passive-aggressive comment, and a dish that changed everything. When a mother-in-law dismisses her daughter-in-law’s cooking skills, the daughter-in-law responds with a creative twist that exposes a sh0cking hypocrisy.
By incorporating this DIY collagen powder into your daily routine, you can improve the health and appearance of both your skin and hair.