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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider Hajji Alejandro passes away at 70: The OPM icon who fought colon cancer

Hajji Alejandro passes away at 70: The OPM icon who fought colon cancer

Published Apr 21, 2025 10:15 pm

At A Glance

  • In February, friends of Hajji Alejandro took to social media to request prayers after he was rushed to the hospital and intubated.
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Hajji Alejandro

OPM icon Hajji Alejandro has passed away following a battle with colon cancer. He was 70.

Hajji's demise was confirmed by Girlie Rodis, the talent management for the Alejandro family, on April 22. The full statement:

"It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Son, Angelito 'Hajji' T. Alejandro.

"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.

"To God be the glory. - Alejandro family."

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At midnight, netizens speculated that a post by Chef Barni Alejandro may be a reference to her father, Hajji. Later, Barni acknowledged the condolences shared by friends in the comments section of her Facebook post since midnight.

"Heartfelt condolences Barni Alejandro, such a great loss," wrote a family friend in the comment section. Barni answered: "Thank you."

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Barni has updated her Facebook profile with a new cover photo featuring her family.

In a separate post, Barni wrote: "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!" Then she shared a video clip singing a part of her dad's hit song "Ang Lahat Ng Ito'y Para Sa'Yo."

GMA News reported that Rachel Alejandro and chef Barni are Hajji's children from his first marriage. Mojofly drummer Ali Alejandro is Hajji's son with the late beauty queen Rio Diaz. The male singer also has another child named Michelle Alejandro.

Hajji's death sent another shockwave through the local entertainment industry, which had already lost four movie icons this year: Delia Razon, Gloria Romero, Pilita Corrales, and Nora Aunor.

Just last March, Alynna Velasquez, partner of Hajji for 27 years, confirmed that the singer was recovering after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer.

Alynna also believed that Hajji would be able to sing again after the operation during an interview with broadcaster Julius Babao.

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She said her prayers were answered when Hajji finally returned home after being confined in the hospital.

In February, friends of Hajji Alejandro took to social media to request prayers after he was rushed to the hospital and intubated.

Dubbed "Kilabot ng mga Kolehiyala" in the 70s, Hajji broke the music scene with memorable hits such as "Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika," "Nakapagtataka," "Panakip-Butas," "Tag-Ulan Sa Tag-Araw" and more.

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