MANILA, Philippines – Filipino music legend Hajji Alejandro passed away at the age of 70 on Monday, April 21, 2025, following a prolonged battle with stage 4 colon cancer.
His family confirmed his passing on Tuesday, April 22.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Son, Angelito ‘Hajji’ T. Alejandro,” read a statement released by family friend and longtime manager of his daughter Rachel Alejandro, Girlie Rodis.
“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,” the statement added.
Alejandro is survived by his children: singer-actress Rachel Alejandro and Mojofly drummer Ali Diaz Alejandro.
His battle with colon cancer was first revealed by his longtime partner, Alynna Velasquez, during a March 2024 interview with journalist Julius Babao. Velasquez shared that Hajji had undergone surgery and fought off a subsequent infection before being able to return home.
Fondly remembered as the “kilabot ng mga kolehiyala” (college girls’ heartthrob), Alejandro rose to fame in the 1970s with his signature charm and soulful vocals. He was discovered by fellow OPM great Basil Valdez, who invited him to join the popular Circus Band during the height of Manila’s live music scene in the ’70s.
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Alejandro made an indelible mark on the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) landscape. He is best known for timeless hits such as “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” “Nakapagtataka,” “Tag-Araw, Tag-Ulan,” “Panakip-Butas,” “If I Were Man Enough,” and “May Minamahal.”
Alejandro’s death comes just days after the Philippine music and film industry mourned the loss of two other icons: “Asia’s Queen of Songs” Pilita Corrales, who passed away on April 12, and “Superstar” Nora Aunor, who died on April 16.
— The Summit Express
