MANILA, Philippines?Mike Francis, international pop sensation in the 1980s passed away Friday due to a lingering illness. He was 47.

The Florence-born Francis, or Francesco Puccioni, had been particularly a favorite in Manila with his name figuring in the top acts during the heydays of electronic pop from 1985-1987, with such hits as ?Friends? with Ami Stewart, ?Survivor? with Belen Thomas, and his stirring solo ?Let Me In.?

His only live album, ?Mike Francis Live in Manila? that featured his highly successful 1989 gig at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, proves how his music was well-received in the country.

A greatest hits compilation, ?The Very Best of Mike Francis? featuring a mix of his Italian and English hits, was released seven days before his death in Italy.