Hajji Alejandro, a celebrated Filipino singer and actor known as the “kilabot ng mga kolehiyala” (college girls’ heartthrob), died Tuesday, April 21. He was 70.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Son,” read a statement from the Alejandro family, shared by talent manager Girlie Rodis on Facebook. “At this time, we kindly ask for privacy as our family grieves this tremendous loss. We appreciate your understanding and support during this difficult time.”
Alejandro is survived by daughters Rachel, a singer and theater artist, and Barni, a chef, from his first marriage to Myrna Demauro. He is also survived by son Ali, drummer of the band Delara, from his marriage to actress and beauty queen Rio Diaz, who died of colorectal cancer in October 2004.
In an emotional Instagram post, Barni sang a few lines from her father’s hit song “Ang Lahat Ng Ito’y Para Sa’Yo.” She captioned the video: “I can’t fathom a life without you. My heart is broken into a million pieces. You were my first love, my hero, my idol. Forever, your Yabs!”
Alejandro’s illness became public last month through an exclusive interview with broadcaster Julius Babao. His long-time partner, singer Alynna Velasquez, confirmed his diagnosis following a CT scan. Alejandro underwent surgery in February.
“When we found out, he didn’t react, but I could feel he was scared and couldn’t believe it,” Velasquez said in the interview. She described the heartbreaking moment when Alejandro was sedated and intubated. “I cried out to God, ‘Lord, please save Hajji. If you do, I’ll take care of him for the rest of our lives.’”
Velasquez, who had been with Alejandro for 27 years, shared that she faced criticism for disclosing his condition publicly. However, she said she needed emotional support during his critical condition and wanted to raise awareness.
Born on Dec. 26, 1954, in Alaminos, Pangasinan, Alejandro rose to prominence as part of the 1970s group Circus Band, which also included Pat Castillo and Tillie Moreno. He was discovered by fellow OPM legend Basil Valdez and eventually joined the band.
In 1976, Alejandro launched his solo career, aided by musical director Willy Cruz, formerly of The Ambivalent Crowd. He became one of the first artists signed by JEM Records, with Cruz serving as both company president and his lyricist.
Alejandro’s popularity extended into film. Regal Films cast him in the movie adaptation of his hit song “Panakip Butas,” opposite screen icon Nora Aunor. The film was a box office success.
His death marks the third major loss in the Original Pilipino Music (OPM) community this month, following the deaths of “Asia’s Queen of Songs” Pilita Corrales on April 12 and National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor on April 16 — the same day Alejandro passed.
Alejandro leaves behind a legacy of timeless hits that helped define OPM for over four decades. Among his most beloved songs:
“May Minamahal” (1977): Written by Willy Cruz, this tender love song was re-recorded for Alejandro’s Silver Anniversary Album in 1996. His daughter Rachel also released a popular cover.
“Panakip Butas”: A Tagalog rendition of the 5th Dimension’s “Worst That Could Happen,” originally written by Willy Cruz and J. Webb, also re-recorded in 1996.
“Tag-araw, Tag-ulan”: A poignant love song and a Tagalog adaptation of the Bee Gees’ “Charade,” featured in his 1996 anniversary album.
“Ang Lahat ng Ito’y Para Sa’yo”: Composed by Nonong Pedero, this song speaks of unconditional love and devotion.
“Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika” (1978): Written by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab, Alejandro’s performance of this song won the first Metro Manila Popular Music Festival (MetroPop) and the Grand Prix at the International Music Festival in Seoul, where he was also named Best Singer.
“Nakapagtataka”: An original composition by Jim Paredes about heartbreak and longing, which became one of Alejandro’s signature songs. It was later covered by his daughter Rachel and the band Sponge Cola in 2006.
Though he is gone, Hajji Alejandro’s voice and artistry remain deeply embedded in the hearts of his fans. His contribution to Filipino music continues to resonate across generations.
