Aegis vocalist Mercy Sunot dies at 48 after battling breast and lung cancer

Aegis’ Mercy Sunot | Image: TikTok/@mercyofaegis

Mercy Sunot, lead vocalist of OPM rock band Aegis, has died at the age of 48 after battling breast and lung cancer.

Her death was confirmed through Aegis’ official Facebook page, as they thanked Sunot for her contribution to the band.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Mercy, one of the beloved vocalists of AEGIS Band. She bravely fought her battle with cancer but has now found peace and rest,” they began their post.

“Mercy’s voice wasn’t just a part of AEGIS—it was a voice that brought comfort, joy, and strength to so many. She has touched countless lives, inspiring fans and lifting spirits with every song she sang. Her passion, warmth, and unforgettable presence on stage will forever be cherished in our hearts,” continued the caption.

Sunot is survived by her two minor children and her sisters, who are also members of Aegis.

The OPM band appealed to the fans to remember Sunot for the musical legacy she left behind.

“Let us come together to celebrate the incredible life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind. Mercy, thank you for the music, the love, and the memories. You will be deeply missed,” they concluded the post.

Wonderful voice, warm personality

Tributes from fans and friends from the industry poured in to celebrate Sunot’s legacy and memory. 

Former actress and “That’s Entertainment” alumna Bunny Paras took to social media to pay her tribute to the late lead vocalist.

“Nakaka sad naman (it’s so sad) huhu paalam Mercy Sunot you’re so beautiful… mahigpit na yakap (tight hugs) #Aegis to your whole family and friends. I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Mercy, you were so full of life and very beautiful, such a wonderful voice and just warm and happy personality. My deepest condolences and prayers,” Paras wrote.

Moonstar88 singer Maychelle Baay also expressed her condolences to the band and shared its post about Sunot’s death on her own Facebook page.

Actress-comedian Pokwang also shared Sunot’s picture on her Instagram story and called the late Aegis vocalist her idol. 

“My idol, may you rest in peace. Salamat sa mga awitin (Thank you for the music). Salamat sa iyong tinig (Thank you for your voice),” she wrote.

Image: Instagram/@itspokwang27

Independent record label Alpha Music Corporation also took to their Instagram to honor Sunot for her contribution to the music industry.

“We mourn the passing of Mercy Sunot, one of the powerhouse vocalists of the band Aegis. She is the voice behind the hit song, “Luha.” Thank you, Mercy, for sharing the gift of your voice with all of us. As the record label and discoverer of Aegis, we send our deepest condolences to the Sunot family, her bandmates, and loved ones as she joins our Creator. May she rest in the Lord’s loving arms,” wrote the local record label.

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Meanwhile, during the commercial break of their Monday episode, “Eat Bulaga” also paid tribute to Sunot by re-playing the episode where the latter’s sisters Juliet and Ken appeared in the program to perform the band’s hits.

Gone too soon

Just last Nov. 16, the Aegis member turned emotional as she made a heartfelt appeal to fans to pray for her after undergoing critical lung surgery.

Aegis rose to fame in the ’90s on the back of hit songs “Halik,” “Sayang na Sayang,” and “Luha.” The band’s songs were featured in the musical “Rak of Aegis.”

The band is composed of Sunot and her siblings Juliet and Ken. Also part of Aegis are Stella Pabico, Rey Abenoja, Rowena Adriano, and Vilma Goloviogo.