The Real Reason Nora Aunor Didn’t Save Money, According to Matet De Leon
MATET DE LEON – The actress addressed public speculation about why her late mother, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts and “Superstar” Nora Aunor, did not have savings despite her immense success in the entertainment industry.
In an interview on Chinkee Tan’s vlog “Pera At Buhay,” Matet revealed the real reason behind this. She explained that during her mother’s tapings, she would either get paid before or after work. When she received her salary, she would line up the staff and give them portions of her pay. These were not small amounts—she would hand out ₱2,000 or ₱1,000 each to the cameramen and crew.
Matet also shared that even children who watched the tapings would receive money from her mother. For Nora Aunor, it was more important that others had money, even if she ended up with nothing. Matet said people should understand her mother’s generosity before criticizing her for not having investments or wealth, as her priority was always people and friends over herself.

She added that the family only advised Nora when she asked for it. If Nora did not seek advice, they would refrain from interfering to avoid offending her.
Matet recalled one time when Nora sought advice about starting a business. She suggested a “build and sell” venture, but Nora declined, saying the return on investment would take too long. Matet’s next idea was a gasoline station, but this plan also did not materialize.

Last month, Matet became emotional during one of her live selling sessions after some netizens criticized her late mother. She expressed hurt over these comments, especially given her mother’s history of kindness and generosity, which, she said, explained why Nora Aunor left behind no financial fortune but many people whose lives she had touched.