MANILA — The family dispute among the children of late National Artist and actress-singer Nora Aunor has taken a new turn following a fresh exchange of statements between her eldest children, Ian de Leon and Lotlot de Leon.

In a media report, the discussion comes in the aftermath of Nora Aunor’s death last year, leaving behind Ian, Lotlot, and their siblings Matet, Kiko, and Kenneth.

Ian is the only biological son of Nora Aunor with actor Christopher de Leon. The former couple also adopted the other four children before their marriage was dissolved in 1996.

Following the veteran actress’s death, questions on inheritance surfaced within the family and among supporters. Ian has repeatedly said he is the legal sole heir but expressed willingness to share any inheritance with his siblings.

Another issue raised involves separate foundations reportedly established by Ian and his siblings, which were allegedly created without the other party’s knowledge.

Fast Talk appearance

Ian appeared on the Father’s Day episode of “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on June 19, 2026, in an episode recorded earlier, where he discussed forming a one-person corporation (OPC) related to his mother’s legacy.

Under the OPC is the Nora Aunor Enterprise, described as a for-profit entity managing the late actress’s estate and assets, including productions, documentaries, and exhibits. It also aims to generate income.

Ian said up to 15% of proceeds from its projects will go to a non-profit counterpart, the Nora Aunor Foundation, which includes the NoraCares program founded by Nora Aunor in 2017.

During the interview, Boy Abunda cited a previous statement from Matet, who said she was not informed about the OPC. Ian responded by recalling discussions with his siblings after their mother’s death.

“[The OPC] was still a concept during that time and I wanted them to be involved,” Ian shared. “I think noon time na ‘yun, they weren’t ready because it was still a concept but I told them I would pursue this and was willing for everyone to be on board.”

Boy clarified that Ian’s account appeared to contradict Matet’s earlier claim. Ian reiterated references to a 40th day meeting and a separate Zoom discussion where Matet was present.

Asked about his relationship with his siblings, Ian said family disagreements are normal and expressed hope that issues would eventually be resolved.

“Our opinions may differ but ultimately I can see in the future na we will all connive into one certain purpose,” he added. On the issue of Nora’s inheritance, Ian clarified that “things take time” and “all must be dealt legally.”

Ian said he is currently in regular communication only with Kiko and Kenneth, but remains open to reconciliation with his sisters.

Lotlot’s response

Lotlot reacted to Ian’s statements during a media conference for her film “40 Days” on June 19, disputing his claims regarding the OPC discussions.

“Sinungaling”

“He never told us, he never shared anything with us at all,” Lotlot said.

She also criticized what she described as false statements, expressing frustration over the issue.

“Ikakayaman ko ba ang pagsisinungaling, ang pangingisa ng kapwa?” Lolot continued. “Enough! Enough with the lies, with all of that. Wala na kaming sinasabi and then you go out on a TV show to tell everyone sinabi mo amin, which is not true.”

Lotlot said she had previously asked a lawyer to issue a statement on the matter and became emotional as she recalled treating Ian as a sibling.

She also mentioned housing the four siblings during the years Nora Aunor lived in the United States, saying she and her former husband Ramon ‘Monching’ Gutierrez gave Ian his own room.

“I don’t understand why. Again, sa kanya na lahat. Wala akong hinihingi, inaagaw o si Matet. He can have it all!” a tearful Lolot said. “Kasi para sa’kin, sapat nang natawag kong Mommy si Nora Aunor, napalaki ng isang Superstar, nabigyan ng isang pangalan ni Mommy.”

She apologized for her remarks afterward and was consoled by co-star Elizabeth ‘Boots’ Oropesa.

Ian’s counterarguments

Ian responded to Lotlot’s statements through his Facebook Stories, rejecting her claims.

He said his adopted siblings had moved to establish a foundation after Nora Aunor’s death to prevent others from doing so first, adding that regulatory approval would not be granted without proper review.

Ian also cited concerns about legal procedures as the reason for delays in fully implementing plans, and said he monitored official registration processes.

“The staff of a significant figure even informed us that they donated and may nilapitan pa silang isang malaking tao,” Ian claimed. “Also the office informed us but they hesitated to donate, which made me post a statement to protect my family in case of any legal problems.”

He also alleged an attempt to obtain his signature during a dinner involving lawyers and reiterated the need to formalize documents.

Ian maintained that he had informed his siblings through a Zoom meeting and a 40th day discussion, and even shared a screenshot as reference.

“Who put down the siblings? Did you even watch the whole show before reacting? Kayo lang ba pwede mag pa-interview? I don’t go out just like that, it’s for [a] Father’s Day episode,” Ian said.

He added that he still considers Lotlot his sister despite tensions.

“Sa’kin na lahat? After the state funeral when [the] 5 of us [were] talking I was clear,” he continued. “[I] told you guys na tulong-tulong tayong lima dito at maging transparent sa isa’t isa and everything will take time and everything will be divided equally. Pero ang palabas is madamot ako? Why?”

Ian also disputed another claim from Lotlot, saying: “Sino ang may inaagaw? | didn’t say na may inaagaw kayo. Why say that? To put me down?”