The local music industry is in mourning following the death of Jimmy Regino, a member of the legendary 90s OPM trio “April Boys.”
His brother and longtime group mate, Vingo Regino, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a social media post on Saturday, December 27. In an emotional video, a tearful Vingo informed fans that Jimmy had been battling health issues and had been hospitalized for a significant period before his passing.
“To all the fans of the April Boys, I am just informing you that my brother Jimmy has passed away,” Vingo said in Filipino. “I’ve been crying since yesterday. I feel so much pain… it’s hard to lose a beloved brother.”
While a specific cause of death has not been officially released by the family, Vingo hinted that Jimmy may have been “waiting” for one last visit from his family at the hospital before peacefully letting go.
Jimmy Regino was one-third of the April Boys, alongside brothers Vingo and the late April Boy Regino.
Together, they dominated the 1990s jukebox scene with massive hits like “Sana’y Laging Magkapiling” and “Ganyan Talaga Ang Pag-ibig.”
The group was known for their trademark long hair, signature caps, and sentimental ballads that became anthems for Filipinos worldwide.
Jimmy’s death comes five years after the passing of the group’s eldest brother and lead singer, April Boy Regino, who died in November 2020.
In recent years, Jimmy and Vingo had remained active in the music scene, collaborating with April Boy’s son, JC Regino, on the 2023 tribute single “Idolo” under GMA Music.
Tributes from fellow artists and fans have begun pouring in, honoring Jimmy’s contribution to the “Jukebox King” legacy that defined an era of Filipino pop music.
Details regarding his wake and interment are expected to be announced by the Regino family in the coming days.