"It's the first time in ten days that I'm not at a wake." That's how actress Janine Gutierrez opened her message on her Instagram Channel, "Channel Nine," as she opened up about the heartbreaking loss of two important family members within just a week—Asia's Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales and National Arist Nora Aunor, also called the Superstar.
Pilita—the mother of Janine's father Ramon Christopher Gutierrez—reportedly passed away in her sleep on April 12. Just four days later, Janine's maternal grandmother, Nora Aunor, the adoptive mother of Janine's mom Lotlot de Leon, died from acute respiratory failure.
While Holy Week is usually a time for reflection or vacation, for Janine and her family, it became a time of grief, remembrance, and honoring the lives of two beloved matriarchs.
"This Holy Week, my siblings and I lost two lolas, mama and papa's mothers. Kakauwi lang namin galing sa wake ni Mamita ng mga alas-kwatro ng hapon nung April 16," Janine shared. "Pagdating ng alas-diyes ng gabi, tumatawag na ulit ‘yung kapatid ko sa chapel para kumuha ng kwarto, para naman kay Mama Guy. It's been difficult and even unbelievable," she added.
The actress didn't hold back her words, admitting just how heavy the situation has been for her and her loved ones. Still, it was the outpouring of love and support from her community that helped her get through it.
"But all throughout, you have helped us so much with your support and love. Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers," she expressed.
Janine Gutierrez Thanks Supporters Of Pilita Corrales And Nora Aunor
Messages of sympathy and support poured in for the wake of Pilita and Nora. Family, friends, industry colleagues, and longtime fans gathered to honor the lives of the two legends.
Prominent personalities and politicians also paid their respects at Ate Guy's wake. The outpouring of love and support is a testament to how deeply the two were loved—something Janine is especially grateful for.
"We love you so much, everyone who sent a message, dropped by or had us and our lolas in your mind," Janine said.
The actress revealed that she had initially made plans to travel during Holy Week but ultimately chose not to, which is something she later saw as a blessing in disguise, as it allowed her to be present for her grandmothers' final moments.
"Buti nalang hindi na ako umalis. Mamita passed away on my first free day and we buried Mama Guy on my last. Driving to my location today, I think of my two new angels and how they always powered through," Janine reflected.
"I think of how I can continuously make them proud. It gives me comfort to know there are many of us who will always have them in our hearts," she added.