The family of singer Vanessa Blanca has shared new details about her sudden death, asking the public to respect their privacy and refrain from speculation as they mourn the 30-year-old performer.

Vanessa is remembered as the singer of the original version of the 2010s hit “DOTA O Ako,” which she recorded with songwriter-rapper Aikee.

Following her death, Aikee reposted the song and remembered his longtime musical partner, whom he called his “Patner.”

“Mahal na mahal ko tong Patner kong to eh. Mamamalagi siya sa Puso ko. Isa sa mga Tunay at Mapagmahal na Kapatid!” he wrote.

He later said, “As artists, we dream of being in the spotlight, but this isn’t the kind of spotlight we ever wanted.”

Vanessa was also a member of Sugarpop, the pre-teen singing group formed by Popstar Kids finalists Julie Anne San Jose, Rita Daniela, Enzo Almario, and Cholo Bismonte.

Julie Anne shared a throwback photo, writing, “Wani, still can't believe it... Plano pa naman natin mag-reunion. Sugarpop will never be the same without you. Rest in Heaven, Wani.”

Pocholo also shared childhood memories, while Rita reposted their songs “Mahal Kita,” “You Lift Me Up,” and “Paraiso.” Enzo remembered Vanessa as his “Sagittarius and co-bunso sister.”

Vanessa died on August 19 following what her cousin, Ivy Ann Salaum Jubelag, described as an accidental fall at the Manila condominium where she was staying.

Ivy said Vanessa suffered a severe traumatic brain injury resulting in an internal brain hemorrhage after falling in the bathroom. “While she was getting dressed in the bathroom, she unfortunately tripped and fell, striking her face and head against the floor,” Ivy said.

An ambulance was called, but according to Ivy, it had not arrived after approximately 15 minutes. Vanessa’s companions then attempted to bring her to the nearest hospital in a wheelchair.

“At that time, there was no tricycle or other immediate transportation available, making the situation even more difficult and distressing,” Ivy said.

Ivy said the family shared the details to provide clarity, not to assign blame, and appealed to the public to avoid speculation.

“We humbly ask for your prayers, understanding, and respect during this difficult time. Rest peacefully, our beloved Vanessa,” she wrote.

“Vanessa and I continued to root for each other even after we broke up. She was happy for me and I was happy for her,” Panky said. They described their relationship as having evolved into “another kind of love” built on history, affection, respect, and genuinely wanting each other to be happy. “You deserved so much more time. I will miss you for the rest of mine. Until we meet again, lovey,” they said.

Friends, fans, and loved ones may pay their respects to Vanessa at Loyola Memorial Chapels in Commonwealth, Quezon City.