Aegis vocalist Mercy Sunot dies

MANILA, Philippines – Mercy Sunot, one of the singers of Filipino rock band Aegis, died, the band announced on Facebook, Monday morning, November 18.

“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,” Aegis said.

Sunot, along with her sisters Juliet and Ken, became widely known for their powerful belting vocals that underscored their emotional, heart-on-the-sleeve lyrics. The band’s top hits include “Luha,” “Basang-basa Sa Ulan,” “Halik,” and “Sinta.”

The band wrote, “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.”

“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.”

Mercy on Saturday, November 16, posted a video on TikTok, revealing that she had undergone a lung operation.

In the video, she was filming in the intensive care unit, explaining how she had difficulties breathing after the operation, noting that the doctors found out she had water and inflammation in the lungs. She was given steroids, the singer said, and asked for prayers. “Ipag-pray niyo ako guys, please. Pag-pray niyo ako na matapos na itong pagsubok na ‘to.” (Pray for me please. Pray that this ordeal will be over soon.)

ABS-CBN reported that the singer had been in the US for seven months, undergoing treatment for Stage 3 breast cancer and lung cancer as well. According to the singer, she had been responding well to chemotherapy. Mercy was also able to still attend a show by fellow singer Eva Eugenio on November 8.

Pep.ph reported that the singer was 48 years old, and died at the Stanford Hospital and Clinics in San Francisco, California on the night of November 17, US time, or the morning of November 18 in the Philippines. – Rappler.com