OPM legend and beloved balladeer Hajji Alejandro has died at the age of 70 due to complications from stage 4 colon cancer, his family confirmed. Known for his soulful voice and timeless hits, Alejandro was a pillar of Original Pilipino Music for over four decades.
In a statement shared by Girlie Rodis, longtime manager of his daughter Rachel Alejandro, the family expressed their deep sorrow and requested privacy as they grieve the loss of their beloved “Daddywaps.”
Hajji is survived by his children—singer-actress Rachel Alejandro, chef Barni Alejandro, and Mojofly drummer Ali Diaz Alejandro. Barni paid tribute to her father on Instagram, tearfully singing his classic song “Ang Lahat Ng Ito’y Para Sa’Yo.”
Alejandro’s battle with cancer became public in March 2024, when his longtime partner Alynna Velasquez shared the news in an interview. She revealed he had undergone surgery and fought off infection but remained in delicate health.
Hajji’s passing follows closely on the heels of other recent showbiz losses, including Nora Aunor and Pilita Corrales.
Nicknamed the “kilabot ng mga kolehiyala” (college girls’ heartthrob) during the 1970s, Hajji rose to fame with his charm and powerful voice. His iconic songs such as “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika,” “Nakapagtataka,” and “May Minamahal” left a lasting imprint on Filipino music and culture.
Despite his age, he continued performing and shared in a 2020 interview his secret to vocal longevity—constant humming and mental conditioning. “You don’t work for music — you play it,” he once said, capturing the passion that defined his career.