The Philippine music industry is once again in mourning as news broke on Saturday regarding the passing of Jimmy Regino, a vital member of the iconic OPM trio, The April Boys. The announcement was made by his brother and longtime bandmate, Vingo Regino, through an emotional post on Facebook.
In a heartfelt message written in Filipino, Vingo shared the somber news with their dedicated fanbase: “To all the fans of the April Boys, I would like to inform you that my brother Jimmy has passed away. We will not be hearing his voice anymore.”
A Legacy of Melodic Hits
The April Boys—composed of brothers Vingo, Jimmy, and their legendary older brother, April Boy Regino—became a household name in the 1990s. They were the architects of a specific brand of sentimental, catchy Filipino pop that resonated deeply with the masses.
While April Boy eventually moved on to a record-breaking solo career, Jimmy and Vingo continued to carry the torch as a duo, maintaining the group’s signature sound and “idol” image. Their discography includes some of the most enduring karaoke and radio staples in the Philippines, such as:
- “Sana’y Laging Makapiling”
- “Maniwala Ka Sana”
- “Dugong Pilipino”
Their music was characterized by themes of unrequited love, devotion, and national pride, earning them a permanent spot in the hearts of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and local fans alike.
A Family United by Music
The loss of Jimmy marks another painful chapter in the Regino family’s history. Their older brother, the “Idol” April Boy Regino, passed away in November 2020 after a long battle with various health complications. The brothers were known for their tight-knit bond, often seen performing together in matching outfits and long hair—a look that became synonymous with the “April Boys” brand.
As of this writing, the cause of Jimmy’s death has not been revealed by the family. They have requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time. However, fans from across the globe have already begun flooding social media with tributes, sharing clips of Jimmy’s performances and expressing gratitude for the music that defined their youth.
Jimmy’s voice may have gone silent, but the melodies he created with his brothers will undoubtedly continue to play in every corner of the Philippines, serving as a timeless reminder of the golden era of OPM.