Julie Anne San Jose reveals Sugarpop reunion was planned for 2027 anniversary concert

Julie Anne San Jose was supposed to reunite with her former Sugarpop groupmates for her upcoming 20th anniversary concert in 2027.

If it still pushes through next year, they will be missing one member after the sudden death of Vanessa Blanca.

In Aubrey Carampel's report on "24 Oras" on Thursday, the Asia's Limitless Star became emotional as she recalled her late former groupmate and the dreams they had for their reunion.

"She's in paradise now. Honestly, I can't express how deeply hurt we are, especially because Vanessa was the youngest among us. She's only 30, so young. We still see her as our little sister," Julie Anne said in a mix of English and Filipino.

"She still had so many things she wanted to do and so many dreams for her life," she said.

Vanessa's death was announced by her cousin Ivy Ann Salaum Jubelag in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

"It is with the heaviest heart that I share the heartbreaking news of the passing of my beloved first cousin and little sister, Vanessa Blanca Quillo Rangadhol, who tragically passed away today, August 19, 2026, following an accident at the condominium where she was staying in Manila," Ivy wrote.

In a separate Facebook post, Ivy said Vanessa sustained a severe traumatic brain injury that resulted in an internal brain hemorrhage after an accidental fall.

A public viewing will be held on August 21 at 6 p.m. at Loyola Memorial Chapels in Commonwealth, Quezon City.

Following news of her death, Julie Anne and the other Sugarpop members, Rita Daniela, Enzo Almario, and Cholo Bismonte, posted heartfelt tributes on Instagram.

Vanessa was known for her song "DOTA O Ako" with Aikee. It is a catchy piece about a man's dilemma in choosing between his girlfriend and his favorite game. —Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA News