‘Queen of Kundiman’ Sylvia La Torre dies

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 2) — Sylvia La Torre, dubbed as the “Queen of Kundiman,” has died at 89 years old.

Her granddaughter, Broadway singer and former Disney star Anna Maria Perez de Tagle, said the renowned artist “died peacefully in her sleep” in the morning of Dec. 1 while surrounded by her husband of 68 years and their children Artie, Bernie, and Che-Che.

“RIP (Rest in peace) 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,” De Tagle wrote in a social media post on Friday.

La Torre’s career in the entertainment industry spanned almost eight decades, having started at a young age.

She was a singer and actress who starred in several films like "Tang-Tarang-Tang" and "Oh Sendang" and television shows including "Oras ng Saya" and "The Big Show."

La Torre was also a famous radio talent via "Tuloy ang Ligaya."

She recorded over 300 songs, including “Waray Waray,” “Maalala Mo Kaya,” “Sa Kabukiran,” "Galawgaw," "Kalesa," "Mutya ng Pasig," and “Bituing Marikit. 

In her message, De Tagle thanked her grandmother for passing on her love of music and for being her "first inspiration" as a performer.

"Gone too soon but always in our hearts. Your song has ended but your melody will linger on. Love you Mama Cita,” she said.