Filipinos mourn the loss of Aegis vocalist Mercy Sunot

Vocalist of the legendary Filipino rock band Aegis Mercy Sunot has passed away at the age of 48.

The band confirmed the news through their post on Facebook which reads, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Mercy, one of the beloved vocalists of AEGIS Band and the voice behind the hit song ‘Luha’. She bravely fought her battle with cancer but has now found peace and rest.”

Mercy Sunot

Mercy Sunot on Facebook

“Mercy’s voice wasn’t just a part of AEGIS—it was a voice that brought comfort, joy, and strength to so many. She has touched countless lives, inspiring fans and lifting spirits with every song she sang. Her passion, warmth, and unforgettable presence on stage will forever be cherished in our hearts,” they added.

They ended their post by thanking the late vocalist and wrote, “Mercy, thank you for the music, the love, and the memories. You will be deeply missed.”

The Aegis Band Facebook Post

Fans took to the comments to express their condolences to the band and bereaved family.

Via Facebook

Sunot was receiving treatment for her lung and breast cancer in California, USA.

The vocalist revealed in her last TikTok video that she had a lung operation and was in critical care after experiencing respiratory difficulties. 

“Tapos na ‘yung surgery ko sa lungs, pero biglang nahirapan akong huminga, so dinala ako sa ICU. Tapos ngayon may tubig pala, may inflammation ‘yung lungs ko, so ginagawan na nila ng paraan [My lung surgery is done but I suddenly had trouble breathing so I was taken to the ICU. Then there’s water, my lungs have inflammation, so they are working on it now],” she stated.

In the same TikTok video, she disclosed that she was given steroids by the doctors to aid her in her breathing.

She also stated as she was lying in her hospital bed in tears, “Ipag-pray nyo ko please para matapos na itong pagsubok na ito. Pag-pray niyo ako [Pray for me guys, please. Please pray for me that this ordeal will be over soon].”

With her distinct and unique voice, Sunot has been the facet of Filipino pop culture as people immediately know of Aegis once she starts belting out their iconic songs.

Hit songs such as “Halik,” “Sayang na Sayang,” and “Luha” propelled Aegis to popularity in the 1990s, and the band’s songs were featured in the musical “Rak of Aegis.”

Sunot’s siblings, Juliet and Ken make up the band. Aegis also includes Vilma Goloviogo, Rowena Adriano, Rey Abenoja, and Stella Pabico.

 

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