Former Sugarpop members gather at Vanessa Blanca’s wake for emotional tribute

Former Sugarpop members Julie Anne San Jose, Rita Daniela, Enzo Almario, and Cholo Bismonte came together at the wake of their late groupmate, Vanessa Blanca, honoring her memory through music.

Julie Anne shared photos on Instagram Stories showing the former Sugarpop members holding a framed portrait of Vanessa. 

Additional photos and videos posted by Vanessa’s cousin, Ivy Ann Salaum Jubelag, captured the group performing heartfelt renditions of “Ikaw ang Lahat sa Akin” and “Mahal Kita” beside her casket.

Adding to the musical tributes, fellow Pop Star Kids alumni Gigi de Lana and Jalynna Magadia joined to sing a moving duet of Mandy Moore’s “Only Hope.” 

Rapper Aikee—who collaborated with Vanessa on his viral 2011 hit “DOTA O Ako”—also paid his respects on the same day.

Vanessa, affectionately known as "Wani," passed away on August 19 at the age of 30. 

According to Jubelag, Vanessa suffered a severe traumatic brain injury and internal hemorrhage following an accidental fall, succumbing to her injuries after being rushed to the hospital.

Sugarpop was formed in 2006 following the success of QTV’s 2005 talent competition Pop Star Kids, where Vanessa finished as second runner-up. 

The young quintet went on to become staples across GMA Network’s youth and variety programming throughout the late 2000s.

-Kim Asis/Paraluman News