SYDNEY — Nora Aunor, one of the Philippines' most celebrated film stars, has died at the age of 71.

Aunor's death on Wednesday was announced by her children on social media, but no further details were provided about her cause of death.

"She touched generations with her unmatched talent, grace, and passion for the craft. Her voice, presence, and artistry shaped a legacy that will never fade," her daughter and actor Lotlot de Leon said on Instagram.

Born into a poor family in the city of Iriga, Aunor established a career in television, music and film over seven decades. She was named National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022 - the Philippines' highest honor for the arts.

She rose to stardom as a singer in the 1960s before moving to the screen, where she amassed more than 200 credits in film and television.

One of her most memorable performances was in 1995's The Flor Contemplacion Story, a film about a Filipino maid executed by Singapore for murdering her fellow domestic helper.

Aunor won local and international awards for her portrayal, along with dozens of other acting honours over her career.

She was married to Filipino actor Christopher de Leon from 1975 to 1996 and they had five children.

Her son Kristoffer Ian De Leon remembered his mother as a "source of unconditional love" in a Facebook post.

"She was the heart of our family. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her," he wrote.

Aunor was most recently seen in the 2024 TV series Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law and filmed a special cameo for the musical Isang Himala. — BBC