Senators express condolences on passing of music icon Sylvia La Torre

Two senators on Monday filed separate resolutions expressing "profound sympathy and sincere condolences" on the passing of “Queen of Kundiman” Sylvia La Torre de Tagle.

In filing Senate Resolution No. 345, Senator Jinggoy Estrada said de Tagle’s passion and dedication to music and the arts “greatly contributed to the growth and development of Philippine arts and culture”.

“A music icon, trailblazing entertainer, and a pioneer for female Filipino performers, her rich legacy of outstanding performances and recording of original Filipino music merits a tribute from the Senate,” said Estrada.

Senator Lito Lapid, for his part,  filed Senate Resolution No. 338. and described the music icon as a “one-of-a-kind multi-faceted artist who dedicated her life to her craft, in turn becoming a source of inspiration for the artists of the next generation”.

De Tagle died peacefully in her sleep on December 1. She was 89.

Born in 1933 to artist Leonora Reyes and director Olive La Torre, the late singer was hailed as the country’s “Queen of Kundiman” for her unforgettable and heartfelt rendition of hundreds of Filipino love songs, folk classics, and novelty tunes such as “Maalaala Mo Kaya,” “Mutya ng Pasig,” “Sa Kabukiran,” “Sa Libis ng Nayon,” “Waray-Waray,” “Alembong,” “Arimunding-Munding,” and “Galawgaw,” among others.

She was also acknowledged as the “First Lady of Philippine Television” in the 1960s with her memorable hosting stint in the long-running early evening variety show “Oras ng Ligaya” and appearances in numerous television programs.

De Tagle began her eight decades-long career at five years old after winning a local singing competition in Manila. She appeared in her first film “Ang Maestra” in 1941 at the age of seven.

She eventually made her stage debut years later, became a regular performer at the Manila Grand Opera House and in vaudeville shows, and pursued acting in movies until the 1990s, thereby successfully making her mark in all fields of Philippine entertainment.—Sundy Locus/LDF, GMA Integrated News