History of Freddie Aguilar in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 27, 2025

Freddie Aguilar, a prominent Filipino folk musician and singer-songwriter, is a key figure in Original Pilipino Music (OPM). He's celebrated for his rendition of "Bayan Ko," which became an anthem against Ferdinand Marcos' regime during the 1986 People Power Revolution. His song "Anak" is the Philippines' best-selling music record, having sold 33 million copies globally. Aguilar is strongly linked to Pinoy rock and holds iconic status in Philippine music history.

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Full Timeline

1928: Original Composition of "Bayan Ko"

In 1928, "Bayan Ko" was originally composed by Constancio de Guzman, with lyrics by Jose Corazon de Jesus, during the struggle for Philippine independence from US occupation.

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February 5, 1953: Freddie Aguilar's Birth

On February 5, 1953, Ferdinand Pascual "Freddie" Aguilar, a Filipino musician, singer-songwriter, and icon of Original Pilipino Music (OPM), was born.

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1973: Early Public Performances

In 1973, Freddie Aguilar began performing in public. He successfully auditioned and was hired to play folk songs at the Hobbit House in Ermita, Manila, earning ₱500 per gig.

1978: First Recording of "Bayan Ko"

In 1978, Freddie Aguilar first recorded "Bayan Ko" as a patriotic effort.

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1978: Marriage to Josephine Queipo

In 1978, Freddie Aguilar married Josephine Queipo, with whom he had four children: Maegan, Jonan, Isabella, and Jeriko.

1979: "Anak" breaks record charts

In 1979, Aguilar's song "Anak" broke Philippine record charts and reached number one in Japan, achieving international popularity.

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1981: Aguilar named second best-selling recording artist in Europe

According to Billboard, in 1981, Freddie Aguilar was the second best-selling recording artist in Europe.

1983: "Bayan Ko" becomes anthem during Marcos protests

In 1983, following the assassination of Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino, Freddie Aguilar's rendition of "Bayan Ko" became an anthem of protests against the Marcos dictatorship.

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1986: Campaigning for Corazon Aquino

In 1986, Freddie Aguilar campaigned for Corazon Aquino's presidential candidacy, leading up to the revolt.

1986: People Power Revolution & Aguilar's Anthem

In 1986, Freddie Aguilar's rendition of "Bayan Ko" became the anthem of the opposition against Ferdinand Marcos' regime during the People Power Revolution.

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2006: "Anak" remains highest-selling record

As of 2006, Freddie Aguilar's "Anak" remained the highest-selling record in Philippine music history.

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January 18, 2008: Asia Star Award

On January 18, 2008, Freddie Aguilar received the Asia Star Award from the Asia Model Award Festival in South Korea.

October 17, 2013: Relationship with a minor

On October 17, 2013, Freddie Aguilar admitted to being in a relationship with a 16-year-old girl, Jovi Gatdula Albao, and expressed plans to marry her and have children.

November 22, 2013: Marriage under Islamic rites

On November 22, 2013, Freddie Aguilar married his 16-year-old partner, Jovi Gatdula Albao, under Islamic rites in Buluan, Maguindanao. He had converted to Islam six months prior and took the name Abdul Farid.

January 3, 2018: Fire at Aguilar's Residence

On January 3, 2018, a fire destroyed Freddie Aguilar's residence in North Fairview, Quezon City, starting in his music room. The fire caused an estimated ₱15 million in damages, including art, awards, musical instruments, and memorabilia. His wife, son, and mother-in-law escaped unharmed.

2019: Senate Candidacy

In 2019, Freddie Aguilar ran for senator as an independent candidate with President Duterte's endorsement but lost, placing 30th.

May 27, 2025: Freddie Aguilar's Death

On May 27, 2025, Filipino musician and singer-songwriter Freddie Aguilar passed away. He was known as one of the pillars and icons of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).