Filipina singer and film and stage actress Armida Siguion-Reyna passed away in the afternoon of Feb. 11 at 88 years old. A memorial service for her will be held at the Heritage Memorial Park from Feb. 12, Tuesday, 6 p.m. until Feb. 15, Friday, 11 p.m.
She was an iconic figure in Philippine arts and culture, having produced the award-winning television show “Aawitan Kita” and classic film “Hihintayin Kita Sa Langit,” which stars Richard Gomez and Dawn Zulueta.
While she starred in various operas and films, she also served as a former chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board.
But perhaps what stood out from all of her contributions to Philippine arts is her renditions of classic Filipino love songs or kundiman, which up to this day, continue to capture the hearts of those who listen to it. Here are four songs that defined the late Armida Siguion-Reyna.
“Aawitan Kita”
This is arguably Siguion-Reyna’s most popular song under her album of the same name. Her award-winning show, which also happens to be one of the longest-running shows, is named after the song.
“Maalala Mo Kaya?”
The famous ballad sung by Carol Banawa is featured at the end of the Philippines’ longest-running drama anthology, “Maalaala Mo Kaya.” In 1994, Siguion-Reyna covered the same song composed by Constancio de Guzman.
“Masaganang Kabukiran”
Sung originally by the Mabuhay Singers, Siguion-Reyna also had her own take on the classic song, which may remind you of a nostalgic time when you visited far-flung provinces.
“Diyos Lamang Ang Nakakaalam”
Released in 1994, “Diyos Lamang Ang Nakakaalam” is a popular Filipino song composed by Manuel Villar Sr. and Leopoldo Silo. Its religious lyrics recognizes the notion that all things, the beginning and end of one’s life, is known only by God.
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