The music world is mourning the loss of one of its icons. Hajji Alejandro, famously known in the 1970s as the "Kilabot ng Kolehiyala," has passed away at the age of 70.
His family confirmed the heartbreaking news through a statement shared by Girlie "GR" Rodis. In their message, the Alejandro family said, "With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Son, Angelito 'Hajji' Alejandro. During this time of deep sorrow, we ask for privacy as we grieve. Thank you for your understanding and support. To God be the glory."
Hajji passed away on the evening of April 21, 2025. It was only a month earlier, on March 25, 2025, that the public learned he was battling Stage-4 colon cancer.
His longtime partner of 27 years, Alynna Vasquez, shared the story of Hajji’s illness in an interview with Julius Babao. According to Alynna, Hajji underwent surgery in February 2025. However, complications arose when he developed an infection, leading to seizures and an extended stay in the ICU.
Thankfully, by early March — just in time for Alynna’s birthday on March 7 — Hajji’s condition improved enough for him to continue recovering at home.
Alynna recounted how shocked Hajji was when he first heard about his diagnosis. “It was so sudden. He was active, playing golf, walking, doing everything. I was actually the lazy one,” she said with a laugh. “He ate healthy too, and then just like that, it happened. He didn’t cry, but I could tell his mind was racing.” She added, “I knew he believed he could overcome it.”
Just days before his passing, Hajji’s daughter, singer Rachel Alejandro, shared some hopeful news during the Parangal ng Sining event by the Film Development Council of the Philippines on April 11.
Rachel said her father was “doing better” and recovering at home. She even expressed confidence that he would soon return to doing what he loved most — performing on stage.
"His first love has always been singing," Rachel said. "Nothing brings us singers more joy than being on stage. I can clearly picture us performing together again."
Hajji Alejandro leaves behind a rich musical legacy. Some of his most beloved hits include "Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika," "May Minamahal," "Nakapagtataka," "Tag-araw, Tag-ulan," and "Panakip-Butas."
He was also a member of the famous OPM Hitmakers, along with Rey Valera, Nonoy Zuñiga, Marco Sison, and the late Rico J. Puno, who passed away in 2018.
In 1978, Hajji made history when he won at the very first Metro Manila Popular Music Festival (Metropop), performing "Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika," composed by Maestro Ryan Cayabyab.
His very first single, "Tag-araw, Tag-ulan," holds a special place in his heart. In an interview with PEP.ph, Hajji shared how emotional he felt hearing his song played on the radio for the first time. "I was driving when I heard it," he recalled. "I couldn’t hold back my tears. It was such a deep, overwhelming feeling — the kind that touches your soul. I still feel the same joy whenever someone sings my songs."
Hajji is survived by his four children: Rachel, Barni, Ali, and Michelle. His son Ali, once a member of the band Mojofly, is Hajji’s child with the late beauty queen and actress Rio Diaz.
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