In a recent episode of her vlog, veteran showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin clarified the details surrounding the payment of National Artist Nora Aunor’s hospital bills. Fermin addressed the rumors about the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) being responsible for covering the costs, revealing that it was, in fact, President Bongbong Marcos who personally took care of the expenses.
Fermin shared that she had decided to speak with Imelda Papin, a close friend of Nora Aunor and currently a Director at the PCSO, to clear up the confusion regarding the hospital bills. According to Fermin, there was an interview where Papin was quoted as saying that the PCSO had paid for Aunor’s medical expenses. However, Fermin pointed out that she had seen a video of Nora Aunor herself, where the Superstar expressed her gratitude to Papin for giving her a “second life.” In the video, Aunor thanked Papin, noting that it was her wish to seek help, which Papin made sure to fulfill.
During their conversation, Fermin asked Papin directly about the situation, and the PCSO Director confirmed that she had initially approached the President to request assistance with Aunor’s hospital bills. However, President Marcos reportedly declined to have the PCSO take on the responsibility and instead personally paid for the bills himself.
Fermin then set the record straight in her vlog, firmly stating that it was indeed President Bongbong Marcos who took the initiative to pay Nora Aunor’s hospital bills, not the PCSO, as previously suggested by rumors. This revelation put to rest the speculation surrounding the matter and highlighted the President’s involvement in ensuring Aunor received the help she needed.
Fermin’s clarification has helped shed light on the situation, offering transparency regarding the generosity extended to the Superstar in her time of need. With this information, fans and the public now have a clearer understanding of how Nora Aunor’s medical expenses were managed.
Guess who? pic.twitter.com/y7bc2nCPIa
— Thea Tan (@theadtan) April 25, 2025