Aicelle Santos performs Walang Himala at necrological service honoring Nora Aunor

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Theater became a place of solemn remembrance on Tuesday as the country paid tribute to National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Nora Aunor. The necrological service honored the life and legacy of the actress, singer and icon who left an indelible mark on Philippine cinema and society.

Among the many highlights during the service, one of the most poignant was the musical performance of Walang Himala by singer and stage actress Aicelle Santos-Zambrano. Nominated Best Actress in the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) for her portrayal of Elsa in “Himala, Isang Musikal,” Aicelle performed the song live at the service, shortly after a moving eulogy by National Artist Ricky Lee.

The performance was backed by the Philippine Madrigal Singers and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, under the baton of Jude Edgar Caballero Balsamo, who also arranged the piece. Aicelle wore a striking all-white pad paper baro designed by Daryl Maat — a subtle but artistic nod to the themes of purity, reflection and remembrance.

“It was a mix of anxiousness, sadness and honor,” Aicelle said in an interview after the performance. “But I reminded myself to just sing with all my heart, sing with truth, like Elsa. Sing to honor Ate Guy, to pay tribute to her legacy and the person that she is.”

The musical number, taken from the stage adaptation “Himala, Isang Musikal,” touched the audience.

Originally based on the 1982 film directed by National Artist Ishmael Bernal and written by Ricky Lee, “Himala” remains one of the most iconic films in Philippine history. The story of Elsa, a young faith healer in a drought-stricken town, remains a powerful allegory on belief, power and disillusionment.

The musical version, staged in 2018 with music by Vincent de Jesus, gave new life to the narrative. Aicelle’s portrayal of Elsa in that production was widely praised for its emotional depth and vocal intensity. “She was the brightest of stars and yet the humblest,” Aicelle shared about meeting Nora Aunor. “I met Ate Guy for the first time when she watched our staging of ‘Himala, Isang Musikal.’ She gave the cast hugs and was very warm to us. Performing Elsa in front of Elsa herself was an honor and a blessing.”

That encounter added even more meaning to Aicelle’s performance on Monday. As her voice echoed through the grand theater, supported by choral harmonies and sweeping orchestration, the emotional weight of the moment was evident. Attendees — composed of family, government officials, colleagues, fans and fellow artists — sat in silence, some moved to tears.

Nora’s original performance in the film “Himala” is considered one of the most unforgettable in Philippine cinema. Her climactic “Walang Himala!” monologue remains etched in the minds of generations. To hear the same words sung decades later, at a time of collective mourning, transformed the song into both a tribute and a farewell.

“Being able to sing it during her necrological service was something I never imagined,” Aicelle added. “But I knew that I had to do it with all the respect and sincerity it deserved. It was one of the hardest performances emotionally, but also one of the most meaningful.”

The rest of the necrological service featured tributes from colleagues, family and friends. The inclusion of Walang Himala in the program underscored Nora’s lasting influence. In a time where songs and stories continue to reflect social realities, her body of work continues to be not only relevant but also necessary.

When asked what message she would say to Nora if she were still alive today, Aicelle’s response was simple: “Maraming, maraming salamat po, Ate Guy.”

The necrological service served not only as a farewell, but also as a reaffirmation of the Superstar’s place in the country’s cultural history. Through the voices of those she inspired — and the songs that carry her legacy — her story continues to be told.

And in the hands of performers like Aicelle, it’s clear that Nora’s voice will echo for generations to come.