Sylvia La Torre, dubbed the Queen of Kundiman, passed away on Dec. 1. She was 89.
This was confirmed by her granddaughter, actress Anna Marie Perez de Tagle in an Instagram post on Dec. 2.
Anna's full post:
"RIP to my grandmother, Ms. Sylvia La Torre Perez de Tagle.- First Lady of Philippine Television, Queen of Kundiman and Tandang Sora Awardee, devoted wife of Dr. Celso Perez de Tagle, loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, caring auntie, and affectionate friend, died peacefully in her sleep on December 1st at 7:02 am.
"At the time of her death, she was with her husband, of 68 years and her children, Artie, Bernie and Che-Che.
"My grandmother was my first inspiration when it came to singing and acting. She was my first vocal coach and taught me all of her kundimans.
"Thank you for passing on your love of music to me and I will surely continue your legacy. Gone too soon but always in our hearts. Your song has ended but your melody will linger on. Love you Mama Cita," Anna wrote.
Celebrities offered their condolences to the family of Sylvia, also known as the First Lady of Philippine Television, in the comment section of Anna's post. Some comments:
"Ohhhhhh noooooooo!!! I thought she was one of the folks that would live forever!!! I’m so sorry, Anna… sending condolences and hugs!!!" wrote Broadway star Lea Salonga.
"She was a legend. Love and strength to you and your family," said stage actor Jon Jon Briones.
Sylvia began her showbiz career during World War II. Then she joined the Manila Grand Opera House in 1948. She recorded her first song "Si Petite Mon Amour" under the Bataan Records in 1950. Then she recorded songs for Villar Records. It was during this time that she earned the title Queen of Kundiman.
Some of her memorable songs include: "Galawgaw," "Kalesa," "Waray Waray," "Arimunding-Munding," "Pakiusap," etc.
In 1941, Sylvia also ventured into movies. Following her stint in show business, she decided to live in Los Angeles, California.
In November 2010, Sylvia returned to the Philippines for a benefit show titled “Laro: Child's Play at the CCP” with Pop Star Princess Sarah Geronimo, according to a report by ABS-CBN.