Yearly Archives: 2013

All About Dama de Noche

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ARTICLES - Dama De Noche 1

The Flower – “…Dama de Noche (Cestrum nocturnum), literally translates “lady of the night” is famous for its unusual biorhythm which made it the subject of legend. Its flowers bloom at night and exude a very sweet scent. Although widely cultivated in the Philippines, the plant was introduced from tropical America….” – Wikipilipinas

The LegendThe Legend of Dama de Noche – “A thousand years ago, there was a rich maharlika, or nobleman, who spent his early bachelor days recklessly, wining and dining in the company of nobility. He drank the finest wines, ate the most delectable food and enjoyed the company of the loveliest, perfumed and bejewelled women of the noble class. After years of this kind of life, the maharlika finally felt it was time to settle down and marry the woman of his choice. “But who is the woman to choose?” he asked himself as he sat in the rich splendour of his home, “All the women I know are beautiful and charming, but I am tired of the glitter of their jewels and the richness of their clothes!” He wanted a woman different from all the women he saw day and night, and found this in a simple village lass. She was charming in her own unaffected ways, and her name was Dama. They married and lived contentedly. She loved him and took care of him. She pampered him with the most delicious dishes, and kept his home and his clothes in order. But soon, the newness wore off for the maharlika. He started to long for the company of his friends. He took a good look at his wife and thought, she is not beautiful and she does not have the air of nobility abouther, she does not talk with wisdom. And so the maharlika returned to his own world of glitter and splendor. He spent his evenings sitting around with his friends in their noble homes , drank and talked till the first rays of the sun peeped from the iron grills of their ornate windows. Poor Dama felt that she was losing her husband. She wept in the silence of their bedroom. “I cannot give my husband anything but the delights of my kitchen and the warmth of my bed. He is tired of me.” She looked to the heavens. “Oh, friendly spirits! Help me. Give me a magic charm. Just one little magic charm to make my husband come home again, that he will never want to leave my side, forever!”

It was midnight when the maharlika came home. He opened the door of their bedroom and called for Dama to tell her to prepare his nightclothes. “Dama! Dama, where are you?” he called. He shouted all around the bedroom. He sarched the whole house. Still the nobleman could not find his simple wife. Finally the nobleman returned to their bedroom, tired and cross. But, as he opened the door, he stopped. A are scent, sweet and fragrant, drifted to him. It was a scent he had never smelled before. He entered the room and crossed to the window where the scent seemed to be floating from. A strange bush was growing outside the window. Some of its thin branches had aleady reached the iron grills and were twisting around. And all over the bush were thousands of tiny starlike, white flowers, from which burst forth a heavenly, enchanting scent! He stood there, completely enraptured by the glorious smell. “Dama…” he whispered softly, onderingly, could this be Dama? The rich maharlika sat by the window, and waited for the return of his loving simple wife. But she did not come back. She never returned to him again. Only the fragrance of the flowers stayed with him, casting a spell over his whole being. In the moonlight, Dama of the night, or Dama de Noche would be in full bloom, capturing the rich maharlika, making him never want to leave her side, forever.

The Comics – Alamat ng Dama de Noche Written by Manuel Franco; Illustrated by Rudy V. Arubang; Published by National Book Store, Inc. Circa 1974 – komiklopedia

The 1972 Film – Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza, written by Borlaza and Nestor Torre, featuring Vilma Santos, Edgar Mortiz, Fred Montilla, Lillian Laing, Matimtiman Cruz, Ruben Tizon, Jovie Barse, Priscilla Ramirez, Danilo Jurado, Cloyd Robinson. Released September 14, 1972.

ARTICLES - Dama De Noche 2

“…Dama de Noche is showing in three theaters— Remar, Delta and Sampaguita. It is, Vilma was quoted as saying, her dream role fulfilled. The very professional Vilma has come out with the resolution than henceforth she will demand to see the script and also see that the script is demanding- or she’ll say nix. Well, Dama de Noche is exactly just that: demanding. In it she delineates the twin-sister roles of sweet Armida and deranged Rosanna. Vilma sobs and screams, giggles, and crazy-dances, claws and clowns, sobs again and screams some more. But she does more than all these things. She acts. In the Filipino movieworld where crying is synonymous with acting, that certainly is being ahead of one’s kind. Vilma as Armida is drab and dry, almost a movie prop. It is in the portrayal of Rosanna that Vilma would tear one’s heart away. The many close-ups so effectively used throughout the movie show the unglamorous Vilma: her frowns, her lip-twitching, her uninhibited and stifled sobs. But Vilma is less successful with the shifty look that is the distinctive trait of the deranged. She compensates for this in the ‘betrayal’ scene when Rosanna suspects that Leo, Armida and the psychiatrist (Fred Montilla) all conspired to imprison her in the hospital. Another outstanding feat is the subdued scene where Rosanna learns that Leo has gone to the Lerma villa to meet Armida. The vivacious Rosanna is just as winsomely pathetic. Watching her is just like seeing a bosom friend trying to pretend she’s happy when both of you know she’s not only in this case, Rosanna is truly happy. Her non-knowledge of her plight is what is particularly heart-curling. Dama de Noche is Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Production’s entry in the QC filmfest which started on Oct.15. It is a very simple story, almost run-of-the-mill, but Nestor Torre, Jr. who wrote the screenplay saved it with his meaningful and amusing lines. However, the movie is occasionally dragging with the Filipino moviemania for spoonfed sequences…” – Times Jornal, October 24, 1972 (READ MORE)

The 1998 Film – A woman (Ynez Veneracion) who was maltreated during her younger years (Aiza Marquez played the young role) gets revenge on the people who abused her. This 1998 film was directed by Lore Reyes and featured Ynez Veneracion, Mark Gil and Lara Fabregas. Released on July 22, 1998 by Neo Films and Viva Films, both lead star Mark Gil and Ynez Veneracion will co-starred with Vilma Santos (the first Dama de Noche lead star) in 2012 via horror film, The Healing.

Para sa nalalapit na kaarawan ni Vi

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FILMS - Vi in Hatinggabi na VilmaIsang Martes ng umaga, ika-3 ng Nobyembre, 1953, sa Trozo, Magdalena, Tondo, Maynila ay may isinilang na isang cute bouncing baby girl sa Galang’s Maternity Clinic. Ang batang ito ay ipinaglihi sa kesong puti at labis labis na pagmamahal. Ang ina ay nagsilang na din ng isang batang babae two years earlier pero dito sa pangalawang batang ito ay walang pagsidlan sa kaligayahan ang kanyang nadarama. May “premonition” siya na ang batang ito ay lalaking “somebody special” and that she will lead a “charmed life.” Pinangalanan ng mag-asawang Amado Santos at Milagros Tuazon Santos ang kanilang baby ng Maria Rosa Vilma. Ang ama, Amado Santos, na isang tubong Bamban, Tarlac ay dating isang bit player sa Premiere, LVN at Larry Santiago Productions. Lumabas siya kasama ang mga big stars ng mga nasabing produksiyon at ang pinsan niyang si direktor Felicing Constantino ang nagkumbinse sa kanya para subukan ang pelikula. Ang ina, Milagros Tuazon Santos, na isang tubong San Isidro, Nueva Ecija ay isang pharmacist by profession at eksperto sa sayaw nang kanyang kabataan. Sa MCU, kung saan siya nagtapos ng kanyang “degree” ay palaging may libreng costume para lang maipakita ang kanyang “terpsichorean talent” sa mga importanteng school programs. Sa pagkakataong ito, saan pa ba magmamana si Vi ng kanyang galing sa pagsasayaw? Ang Santos family ay nakatira sa ground floor ng isang maliit na apartment at sa itaas naman ay ang isang close relative. Isang araw habang nasa kusina si Papa Amado ay bigla siyang nakarinig ng ingay na parang kalabog ng isang nahulog sa hagdanan. Dali dali siyang tumakbo papunta sa hagdanan at nagulantang siya nang makita niya na si Vilma pala ang nahulog sa hagdanan. Agad nila itong isinugod sa ospital, pina-xray at salamat sa Diyos dahil sinabi ng attending physician na very slight fracture lang ang nangyari sa bata.

When Rosa Vilma was already of age, ipinasok siya sa St. Mary’s Academy at noong nasa kindergarten pa siya ay dito na umarangkada ang kanyang pagiging artista dahil palagi siyang kinukuha sa mga school play. Gustong-gusto niya yung ilang oras na nasa stage, behind gleaming footlights, in fancy costume and make-up. At pagkatapos ng “play” ay ang malakas na palakpakan at pagbati sa kanya ng publiko. Nakalimutan na niya ang title ng play at kung anong okasyon ng eskwelahan ito ipinalabas subali’t tandang-tanda pa niya na ang role niya dito ay isang madre na pagkaraan pala ng tatlong dekada ay lalabas din siya sa role ng isang nun-turned-radical film Sister Stella L na dinirehe ni Mike de Leon. Noong anim na taong gulang pa lamang si Rosa Vilma ay sinabi niya sa kanyang magulang na magiging “painter” siya someday. Gusto daw niyang kunin ay “Fine Arts” sa University of Sto. Tomas, maging isang matagumpay na artist at maging mayaman. Mahilig siyang mag-drowing – crayon sketches of birds, flowers, trees, houses at kahit saan ay nagdodrowing siya pati na sa dingding ng kanilang bahay. Dahil dito, si Papa Amado ay palaging nag-a-apply ng coat ng pintura sa kanilang sala tuwing ikalawang linggo at hindi lang yun dahil binabantayan din niya ang batang si Rosa Vilma na baka mahulog sa baso ng gatas ang mga krayola niyang ginagamit. Si Mama Milagros naman ay nagtrabaho sa isang garment department ng Aguinaldo’s kasama ang hindi pa kilalang manlililip na si Rene Salud. Bukod sa pagkanta at pagsayaw sa mga school plays, ang batang si Rosa Vilma ay nagpakita din ng kanyang galing sa pag-iyak dahil sa pakikinig niya ng mga soap operas sa radyo. Mahilig siyang makinig ng mga drama sa radyo at doon ay tutulo na lamang ang kanyang luha. May mga okasyon pa nga na bigla na lang papasok sa kuwarto niya sina Papa Amado at Mama Milagros at nakikita nila na nasa salamin ang batang si Rosa Vilma at nagda-drama.

Noong later part ng 1962, nagkaroon sila ng family reunion sa nilipatan nilang apartment sa La Loma at ang isa sa mga naging bisita nila ay si Amaury Agra na isang cameraman sa Sampaguita Pictures. Si Amaury ay isang malayong tiyuhin ni Rosa Vilma, na ang asawa ay pinsan ni Papa Amado. Noong makita ni Amaury si Rosa Vilma ay agad niya itong tinanong kung gusto niyang mag-artista dahil ang Sampaguita Pictures ay naghahanap ng isang batang lalabas sa kanilang susunod na pelikula, ang Trudis Liit na sinulat ni Mars Ravelo at natutunghayan sa Liwayway Magazine. Noong una ay ayaw ng mag-asawang Amado at Milagros na pumasok sa pag-aartista ang batang si Rosa Vilma dahil pareho silang abala sa trabaho, bukod pa sa gusto nila na pag-aaral muna ang asikasuhin ng batang si Rosa Vilma, subali’t isang araw ay nakatanggap sila ng sulat mula kay Amaury at sinabing ipinalista niya ang pangalan ni Rosa Vilma para mag-audition sa Sampaguita Pictures kung saan si Dr. Jose R. Perez ang isa sa mga screening committees. Dahil hindi nila mapahindian si Amaury kaya’t nag-day off muna si Mama Milagros sa Aguinaldo’s para samahan si Rosa Vilma sa Sampaguita studio. “Diyos ko po,” ang nasambit ni Mama Milagros dahil mahigit yata sa tatlong daan ang mga batang nag-a-apply, lima lamang ang magiging finalists at sa limang finalists ay dalawa lamang ang kukunin, isang batang babae at isang batang lalaki na gaganap na kapatid ni Trudis Liit. Ang suwerte naman, dahil ni-reveal ni Dr. Perez na bago pa sila nagpa-audition nang araw na yun ay meron na silang napiling limang finalists noong previous screening at inisip ni Mama Milagros na lahat ng nag-audition nang araw na yun ay wala ng pag-asa pero sinabi ni Amaury na gusto lang niyang mag-try out si Rosa Vilma para sa susunod nilang pelikulang pang-mahal na araw ng 1963 na pinamagatang Anak Ang Iyong Ina.

Si Amaury ay nasa location shooting noong araw na yun. Samantala, nang si Rosa Vilma na ang nag-audition, sa harap ni Dr. Perez at ni Direktor Jose de Villa at nang ipinagyugyugan na si Rosa Vilma ni Bella Flores ay parang gripong tumutulo ang kanyang mga luha. Nakita ni Mama Milagros sina Dr. Perez at Direktor de Villa na nagtitinginan at pagkatapos ng screening ay sinamahan ni Direk De Villa ang mag-ina sa opisina ni Dr. Perez na nag-extend ng congratulations kay Rosa Vilma na siyang gaganap na Trudis Liit at yung limang finalists ay gagawin na lang supporting sa mga forthcoming na pelikula ng Sampaguita Pictures. Suot ng isang magarang damit, pumunta na ang mag-ina para sa isang screen test subali’t ang magandang damit ay pinalitan ng gula-gulanit, parang basahan. Inumpisahan nang lagyan ng make-up ni Jesse Lopez, ang make-up artist ng studio sapol pa noong era nina Carmen Rosales hanggang sa era ni Amalia Fuentes si Rosa Vilma. Nagtanong pa ang batang si Rosa Vilma kung bakit pa siya kailangang lagyan ng make-up at ang gusto lang daw niya ay huwag masyadong makapal at kung pwede ay pulbos lang. Gumiling ang camera, sumigaw ang direktor ng” Action!” Nag-umpisang mandilat ang mata ni Bella at cry to death naman ang Rosa Vilma. “Cut!” sabi ng direktor. “Very good!”. Si Bella ay niyakap ang batang si Rosa Vilma at sinabing…Aba, first take lang nakuha mo kaagad. Ang galing. Congratulations, Trudis Liit. The whole set was no screen test, but an actual take. Si Maria Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos ay isa ng ganap na bituin sa edad na siyam na taon. May mga tanong noon kung ano ang itatawag nila kay Rosa Vilma onscreen. Ang mag-asawang Amado at Milagros ay gustong i-retain na lang ang pangalang Rosa Vilma subali’t si Dr. Perez ay nag-object dahil marami na daw Rosa sa pelikulang Tagalog, merong Rosa Mia, Rosa Rosal, Rosa Aguirre. Nag-suggest na lang si Dr. Perez na alisin ang Rosa at tawagin na lang na Vilma Santos.

Sa Trudis Liit, ang batang si Vilma ay binayaran ng Php 1,000 sa isang kondisyon na sa susunod na pelikula ay lalabas ulit siya at ito nga ay yung Anak Ang Iyong Ina. Dito sa Anak Ang Iyong Ina ay Php 700 ang kanyang take-home pay. Bukod kay Bella Flores, kasama rin ni Vilma sina Lolita Rodriguez, Luis Gonzales at Connie Angeles sa Trudis Liit, “The Motion Picture That Will Tear Your Heart To Pieces” (as proclaimed by the film’s ad). Ito ay sa screenpaly ni Chito Tapawan. Nagkamit ng FAMAS Best Child Actress si Vilma dito sa Trudis Liit. Impressed na impressed si Direk De Villa sa batang si Vilma dahil sa isang explanation lang eh nakukuha na kaagad nito ang mga instructions. Sabi ng mga co-workers ni Vilma, si Vilma ay merong fantastic memory and can easily dish out even a kilometric dialogue. Pagkatapos ng Trudis Liit at Anak Ang Iyong Ina, sunod sunod na ang ginawa niyang pelikula katulad ng King and Queen For A Day, Aninong Bakal, Morena Martir, Iginuhit Ng Tadhana at Pinagbuklod Ng Langit. Samantala, gumawa rin ang batang si Vilma ng isang weekly tv series sa ABS (the former KBS in Roxas Boulevard) sa direksiyon ni Jose Miranda Cruz na may pamagat na Larawan Ng Pag-ibig kasama sina Willie Sotelo at Zeny Zabala at tumagal ito ng dalawang taon sa ere. In between tapings of Larawan Ng Pag-ibig and schoolwork, siya ay gumawa rin ng mga pelikula sa iba’t ibang outfits katulad ng Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel at Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso. Later on, ginawa ring pelikula ang Larawan Ng Pag-ibig. Gumawa rin siya sa Larry Santiago Productions ng mga pelikulang Maria Cecilia, Kay Tagal Ng Umaga at Hindi Nahahati Ang Langit. Sa mga sumunod na taon ay ginawa rin niya ang mga pelikulang Ito Ang Dahilan, De Colores, Kasalanan Kaya?, Sino Ang May Karapatan? at Sa Baril Magtuos. Dito sa Sa Baril Magtuos ay kasama niya sina Ronald Remy at Romeo Vasquez.

Noong 1967 ay ginawa ni Vilma ang The Longest Hundred Miles, isang war movie for international release sa pangunguna ng Hollywood actor na si Ricardo Montalban, Doug McLure at Katherine Ross. Noong nagsisimula pa lang si Vilma sa Sampaguita Pictures, isa sa mga pelikulang pinanood niya kasama ang buong pamilya ay ang award-winning na The Miracle Worker. Ang role ni Patty Duke as the young Helen Keller ang kanyang pinakapaborito at ninais niya hanggang sa ngayon na makagawa siya ng pelikulang katulad nito. Sabi ni Papa Amado, si Vilma ay hindi “spoiled” dahil kahit artista na siya, pinapalo pa rin daw niya ito kung sa palagay niya ay may nagawang kasalanan. Sabi naman ni Mama Milagros si Vilma pag may isang bagay ng gustong gawin, ito ay kanyang itinutuloy. Sabi naman ng movie scribe na si Ched Gonzales, si Vilma daw ay katulad din ng isang ordinaryong tao na mahilig sa manggang hilaw na may bagoong at sa sitsirya katulad ng popcorn, pretzel, chicharon at butong pakwan. Gustong gusto daw nito na may kinukukut-kukut. Noong 1968, si Vilma ay nominado ng FAMAS para sa best supporting actress category, kasama sina Lolita Rodriguez at Eddie Rodriguez sa pelikulang Kasalanan Kaya? Siya ang pinakabatang aktres an nominado sa kategoryang ito. Hindi man siya pinalad na manalo sa FAMAS subali’t ang San Beda College ay binigyan siya ng Best Supporting Actress award. Sa pagsasara ng dekada 60, si Vilma ay naging popular sa mga television shows kagaya ng Tinno Lapus’ Eskwelahang Munti sa Channel 7. Dito ay itinambal siya sa undefeated Tawag Ng Tanghalan champion for twelve weeks na si Edgar Mortiz.

Ang unang pelikulang pinagtambalan ni Vilma at Edgar ay ang JBC Productions’ My Darling Eddie topbilled by the late Eddie Peregrina. Noong 1970, ginawa in Vilma at Edgar ang pelikulang Love Is For The Two Of Us kasama sina Helen Gamboa at Ricky Belmonte. Sa telebisyon, si Vilma at Edgar ay may regular shows na Oh My Love at The Sensations sa Channel 2. Ang kanilang tambalan ay tinawag na “subok na matibay, subok na matatag.” Noong Enero 1, 1970, ipinalabas ang superhit na pelikula ng VP Pictures na Young Love kasama ang loveteam nina Nora Aunor at Tirso Cruz III. Dito na nagsimula ang rivalry ng Vilma-Edgar loveteam at Nora-Tirso loveteam. Noong 1971, ang tv show na The Sensations ay ginawa ring pelikula ng Tagalog Ilang Ilang Productions sa direksiyon ni Tony Santos, Sr. Noong Nobyembre 1971, ang popular lovebirds ay pumunta ng Hawaii at Estados Unidos para gawin ang mga pelikulang Aloha My Love at Don’t Ever Say Goodbye. Marami pa ding mga pelikulang ginawa sina Vilma at Edgar at kabilang na dito ay ang mga pelikulang I Do Love You, From The Bottom of My Heart, Because You’re Mine, Eternally, Edgar Loves Vilma, Vilma My Darling, My Love At First Sight, The Wonderful World of Music, Remembrance, Renee Rose, Angelica, I Love You Honey, Our Love Affair, Mga Batang Bangketa, Baby Vi, Dulce Corazon, Anak Ng Aswang at ang inilahok sa 1972 Quezon City Film Festival na Dama de Noche kung saan hindi man siya ang naging best actress dito subali’t sa FAMAS nang sumunod na taon ay siya ang naging Best Actress ka-tie si Boots Anson Roa. Samantala, Abril 28, 1974 nang maghiwalay ng landas sina Vilma at Edgar.

Maraming Vilma-Edgar Fans ang nalungkot at inisip nila na magkakabalikan din ang dalawa subali’t hindi na ito nangyari hanggang sa si Vilma ay itinambal sa iba’t ibang leading men. Pero bago pa sila naghiwalay ay itinambal na din si Vilma kina Paolo Romero sa pelikula ng Virgo Productions na Ikaw Lamang kung saan nagkamit ito ng Best Picture sa 1973 Quezon City Film Festival, Manny de Leon sa mga pelikulang Teen-age Señorita at Cariñosa, Walter Navarro sa Sweet Sweet Love at Dalagang Nayon, Jay Ilagan sa Tsismosang Tindera, Ang Konduktora at Inspiration, Tirso Cruz III sa Ding Dong, Nobody’s Child at Give Me Your Love, Victor Wood sa My Little Darling, Victor Laurel sa Ophelia At Paris, Prinsipe Paris Walang Kaparis, Jojit Paredes sa Tok Tok Palatok, Ronnie Henares sa Let’s Do The Salsa at nitong huli ay kay Christopher de Leon sa Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw. Talagang poor second lang noon si Vilma kay Nora Aunor, subali’t nang gawin niya ang trilogy film ng Sine Pilipino na Lipad Darna Lipad ay talagang lumipad ng husto ang kanyang box office appeal. Sinundan pa ito ng mga pelikulang Takbo Vilma Dali at Hatinggabi Na Vilma. Anupa’t itinambal din si Vilma sa mga matured leading man na katulad nina Eddie Rodriguez sa mga pelikulang Nakakahiya, Hindi Nakakahiya Part 2 kung saan nagkamit siya ng Best Actress Award sa 1st Bacolod City Film Festival at Simula Ng Walang Katapusan, Dante Rivero sa Susan Kelly Edad 20, Chiquito sa Teribol Dobol, Dolphy sa Buhay Artista Ngayon, Joseph Estrada sa King Khayan & I, Fernando Poe Jr. sa Batya’t Palu Palo at Bato Sa Buhangin, Jun Aristorenas sa Mapagbigay Ang Mister Ko, Dindo Fernando sa Langis at Tubig at Muling Buksan Ang Puso at Romeo Vasquez sa Nag-aapoy Na Damdamin, Dalawang Pugad Isang Ibon, Pulot Gata Pwede Kaya at Pag-ibig Ko Sa ‘Yo Lang Ibibigay.

Nagkasunod sunod na ang kanyang box office hit movie, hanggang sa inoperan siya ng Ian Films ng pelikulang Burlesk Queen kasama si Rollie Quizon kung saan hinakot nito ang halos lahat ng award including the Best Actress Award sa 1977 Metro Manila Film Festival. Hindi lang awards ang nakopo ng pelikulang ito dahil ang Burlesk Queen pa rin ang itinanghal na Top Grosser sa nasabing pestibal. Gumawa rin siya ng mga pelikulang siya mismo ang prodyuser katulad ng 1978 FAMAS and Urian Best Picture na Pagputi ng Uwak Pag-itim ng Tagak katambal si Bembol Roco, Halik Sa Paa Halik Sa Kamay kasama si Ronald Corveau at Eddie Rodriguez, Coed kasama si Jay Ilagan at iba pa. Noong taong 1978, ginawa ni Vilma ang isang pelikula kung saan lumabas siyang isang rape victim kasama sina Philip Salvador at Matt Ranillo III ng Sampaguita VP Pictures na pinamagatang Rubia Servios. Hindi siya pinalad na maging Best Actress sa pelikulang ito, si Nora Aunor ang nanalo sa pelikulang Atsay, bagama’t marami ang humuhula na siya ang tatanghaling Best Actress dahil kahit ang direktor ng pelikulang Atsay na si Eddie Garcia ay si Vilma ang hinalikan at binati subali’t kinabukasan ay lalong lumakas sa takilya ang Rubia Servios at tinalo nito ang Atsay. Talagang iniyakan ni Vilma ang kanyang pagkatalo. Taong 1978 din nang lumabas ang iskandalo sa kanila ni Romeo Vasquez subali’t sa halip na kumulimlim ang kanyang pagkabituin ay lalo pa siyang pumaimbulog paitaas at sa bandang huli ay hindi naman napatunayan ang balitang ito.

Noong July 19, 1980 ay nagpakasal si Vilma kay Edu Manzano sa Las Vegas, Nevada habang ginagawa nila ang pelikulang Romansa at April 21, 1981 nang isilang ni Vilma si Luis Manzano. Gusto ni Edu na maging plain housewife lang si Vilma subali’t hindi ito nangyari dahil sa natuklasan ni Vilma na baon na pala siya sa utang kaya gumawa siya ng mga pelikula. Talagang puro good karma ang dumating sa buhay ni Vilma dahil after niyang makapanganak ay gumawa siya ng sunod-sunod na mga box-office hit na pelikula katulad ng Ex-Wife, Hiwalay, Sinasamba Kita, Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan?, Paano Ba Ang Mangarap?, Relasyon, Tagos Ng Dugo, Saan Nagtatago Ang Pag-ibig?, Yesterday Today & Tomorrow at iba pa. Sunod-sunod rin ang kanyang Best Actress award katulad ng kanyang grand slam sa mga pelikulang Relasyon, Dahil Mahal Kita: Dolzura Cortez Story, Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa? at Dekada ’70. Naging best actress din siya sa mga pelikulang Broken Marriage, Mano Po 3: My Love, Sister Stella L, Tagos Ng Dugo, Pakawalan Mo Ako, Ibulong Mo Sa Diyos, Pahiram Ng Isang Umaga, Sinungaling Mong Puso at Anak. Sunod-sunod rin naman ang kanyang Box Office Queen award. Hindi lang best actress at box office queen award ana kanyang natanggap kundi nagwagi din siya ng 2005 Gawad Plaridel. Samantala, sa pagsasara ng ABS CBN dahil sa martial law, ay nagsara din ang tv show ni Vilma na The Sensations datapwa’t may mga humalili din dito katulad ng Santos, Mortiz & Associates, Ayan Eh, Vilma Santos Very Special at Vilma In Person (VIP) sa BBC 2. Ang VIP ay lumipat sa GMA 7 at ito ay ginawa nilang “Vilma!”. Ang Vilma! ay nagtagal ng labinglimang taon at sa loob ng mga taong ito ay consistent top rater ito kaya naman siya ang highest paid tv star nang panahong iyon.

Noong December 12, 1992 ay ikinasal naman si Vilma sa noo’y congressman ng 2nd District ng Batangas na si Ralph Recto. Bumaha ang taong dumalo at nanood ng kanilang kasal sa San Sebastian Church sa Lungsod ng Lipa at noong March 29, 1996 ay ipinanganak si Ryan Christian Recto. Noong 1998, hinikayat siya ng iba’t ibang sektor ng lipunan para kumandidatong punong-bayan ng Lungsod na Lipa at matapos niyang gawin ang pelikulang Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa? ay miniting niya ang mga Vilmanians at sinabing humihingi lang siya ng isang “sign” para matuloy siyang kamandidatong mayor ng Lipa at ito ay nangyari. Naging punong-lungsod siya ng Lipa at sa loob ng siyam na taong panunungkulan ay masasabing ang Lungsod ng Lipa ang isa sa mga pinakaprogresibong lungsod sa Pilipinas. Noong May 14, 2007, siya ay nahilingan naman na kumandidato bilang gobernador ng Batangas at dahil sa kanyang magandang nagawa sa Lungsod ng Lipa, siya ay pinalad na manalo sa posisyong ito. Katatapos lang iselebreyt ni Governor Vi ang kanyang 100 araw na panunungkulan bilang gobernador ng lalawigan ng Batangas at nagkaroon siya ng State of Provincial Address nitong nakaraang October 8, 2007. Sabi nga ni Governor Vi, sa nagayon ay prioridad niya ang kanyang pamilya, pangalawa ay ang pagiging gobernador ng Batangas at pangatlo na lamang ay ang kanyang pagiging artista. Maraming movie offers ang kanyang natatanggap katulad ng pagsasamahan nila ni John Lloyd Cruz, meron pang digital film na La Independencia ni Raya Martin na automatic na ilalahok sa Cannes Film Festival kung magagawa niya (sana lang!). Meron ding offer na stage play (pero malabo na ito dahil maraming oras ang kakainin nito lalo na sa rehearsals). Meron ding mga commercials at marami pang iba. Ano pa kaya ang naghihintay sa isang Vilma Santos-Recto? Marami pa, marami pa, di ba Governor Vi? Happy 38th Birthday Governor Vi! – Alfonso Valencia, Oct 31, 2007 (READ MORE)

Why Vilma Santos is the Star for All Seasons

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MEMORABILIA - Vi circa 1980s

After 55 years in the business, 200 films, four Grand Slam Best Actress Awards, and a Hall of Fame recognition from FAMAS, Vilma Santos is still one of the most sought after and effective actresses of our time. No wonder she is called the Star for All Seasons. If you will tell me that I am ‘The Vilma Santos,’ that is because I worked hard for this,” said the actress-turned-Batangas Governor.

FILMS - Trudis Liit - Bella FloresBORN TO BE A STAR – Maria Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos was born on November 3, 1953 to Milagros Tuazon, a pharmacist from San Isidro, Nueva Ecija, and Amado Santos, a former movie extra from Bamban, Tarlac. As a child, Vilma loved listening to radio dramas. “Bata pa ako maarte na talaga ako! Kapag fiesta sa lugar namin maraming taong pumupunta sa bahay namin, ang mama at papa ko ‘Sige, Vi, sayaw! Ipakita mo, anak!’ At dahil maarte ako sasayaw naman ako.” At a family reunion when Vi was nine years old, the brother-in-law of her mother’s cousin, G. Amaury Agra who was a cameraman for Sampaguita Pictures, came for a visit. Agra convinced Mrs. Santos to bring Vi to the studio to audition for a part in the movie Anak, Ang Iyong Ina. There they saw a long line of children with actors Bella Flores and Eddie Garcia. “Pumila ako pero sabi ng mama ko hindi daw doon, sa ibang audition ako dapat. Pero nagpumilit akong pumila,”she re-called. With her improvised dialogue and acting, she wowed Doc Jose R. Perez and Azucena Vera of Sampaguita Pictures. Doc Perez then told the young Vilma, “Ikaw si Trudis Liit.”

FILMS - Vi and Bot (1)MEETING ‘BOT’ – In 1969, the 14-year old Vilma met Edgar ‘Bobot’ Mortiz, a rising recording star and undefeated champion in Tawag ng Tanghalan,” at a teen show entitled “Eskwelahang Munti.” Movie producers thought of establishing a Vi and Bot love team, and in 1970, the two were launched in the film “Young Love.” Thrown together constantly, Bobot and Vilma became a real-life couple in 1971. But Bobot feels shy talking about the details of the teenage relationship with SSM. Nagka-inlaban din naman kami. Ayoko na nga pinag-uusapan e! Pero sandali lang naman. “Nagka-develop-an din kami, dala na rin siguro ng madalas na magkasama kami.” Sadly, the relationship ended three years later, and the love team was eventually disbanded. Vilma and Bobot never did a movie after that but have managed to remain good friends.

FILMS - Sinasamba KitaGREAT ACTING, BAD ATTITUDE – Vilma is not ashamed to admit that even she was a “bad girl” in her mid-20s. Typical of her behavior then was her refusal to show up for a film shoot. The call time was 9AM; at 1PM, she got into her car. On the way to the shooting, she told her driver, “Ayoko na mag-shooting. Ihinto mo na lang diyan. Kakain na lang ako. Sabihin mo masakit ang tiyan ko.” Another time, she ran off to Baguio, just for the heck of it, without informing the producers of a TV Christmas special that she wasn’t planning on showing up. Veteran entertainment writer Ronald Constantino believes Vilma’s crazy days were a result of her private struggles, from tax problems to personal heartaches. Siguro din kasi dahil hindi pa siya nagma-mature as a person at baka ‘yun ‘yung time na marami siyang problema, finances and love life. Pinagdaanan niya ‘yun pero nalampasan din niya.” Later, as she matured, Vilma became more serious with her work. Rory Quintos, the director of Vilma’s 2000 Star Cinema film Anak, says Vi’s professionalism made her job much easier. “Dumadating si Ate Vi sa set nang naka-costume at make-up na. Kapag naka-set up na ‘yung mga gamit sa location, pagdating niya start na agad. That was a big help most especially when we shot in Hong Kong. Wala siyang pakialam na siya si Vilma Santos. Natulog siya doon sa maid’s quarters, kumakain ng kung ano ano, umuupo kahit saan. Natulog siya sa sidewalk, nasubsob sa basurahan. Wala siya talagang arte sa katawan.”

POLITICS 2013 1FAMILY, POLITICS, CAREER – After her first marriage to Edu Manzano ended, Vi met Ralph Recto, the grandson of the late stateman Claro M. Recto. Vi married Ralph in Decembver of 1992, the year when Ralph was first elected as Congressman of Lipa City, Batangas. Wanted to devote more time as a wife an try to have a child with Ralph (they had Ryan Christian Recto in March 1996), Vi wrapped up her long-running variety show “Vilma” in 1995. From then on, Vilma did only movies and was seldom seen on TV. She also entered politics, first as Mayor of Lipa City, then as Governor of Batangas. Constantino believes that this further elevated Vi’s star status. “Mabuti nga rin siguro na bihira na siya makita ng mga tao kasi nami-miss siya. Masd lumalakas nga ang excitement ng mga tao every time na siya ay gagawa ng pelikula.” Now she is ready for an onscreen comeback. This year, after six years of not making movies, Vilma is starrin g in In My Life, a film produced by Star Cinema with John Lloyd Cruz and her son Luis Manzano. She has as simple formula for career success. “Love your career and it will love you back. Don’t take your career for granted. Also, kailangan ng hard work, smart work, grace of God. Kapag may kulang sa tatlong ‘yan, mahihirapan ang kahit sino. Sa Ano mang larangan o propesyon kailangan ng hard work para magtagumpay.” – Napoleon Quintos, Star Studio, September 2009 (READ MORE)

REWIND: Taxes and the young stars

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MEMORABILIA - Vi circa 1980s

Young stars should take care of their finances and pay their taxes. This advice came from Vilma Santos, whose assets were frozen by the Bureau of Internal Revenue in the ’80s for non-payment of income tax. “But I know what [other stars] are going through right now—it’s not easy. When you’re young, somebody else handles your money. When you start having problems, then you start wondering what happened to your earnings.” she added. She considers herself lucky to have recovered from the brush with the BIR even if her marriage to Edu Manzano suffered from it. “Edu wanted me to be Mrs. Manzano, to lie low from show biz. But I had to work and pay my debts. I survived and recovered.

Not everybody is as lucky.” Vilma was surprised to learn that Luis, her son by Edu, paid a bigger income tax than she did this year. “For the first time in my life, I felt insecure,” Vilma said, laughing. “Luis was earning more— I told myself, this could no’t happen. But it’s happening.” She described Luis as a good person who wants to enjoy life. “And the girls! I know my son, he’s definitely no longer a virgin. But I still don’t want him to get married and make me a grandmother,” Vilma admitted. “He just turned 25!” The actress observed that, “….today’s young stars are all talented. “And beautiful,” she gushed. “They can dance, sing, they can do anything. But the problem there is, it’s hard to stand out. During my time, it was a one-on-one with Nora (Aunor) and me.”..” – Nini Valera, Inquirer, 03 May 2006 (READ MORE)

MEMORABILIA - Vi with Edu and Lucky

Vilma: A Woman For All Seasons (2009)

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ARTICLES - Vilma a woman for all seasons

Basic Information: Cast: Vilma Santos, Kim Chiu, Megan Young, Claudine Barretto (host), Laurice Guillen (host), Nikki Gil, Coco Martin, Vhong Navarro (host), Shaina Magdayao, Angelica Panganiban, Iya Villania, Empress Shuck, Nina Dolino, Princess Ryan, Dianne Medina, Sen. Ralph Recto, Ryan Christian Recto, Angel Locsin (host), Luis Manzano, John Lloyd Cruz, Maribeth Bichara; Running Time: 30 minutes; Premiered: August 01, 2009 – Date Ended: August 29, 2009; Number of Episodes: 5; Language: Tagalog; TV Station: ABS-CBN; Country: Philippines

Plot Description: The Kapamilya Network proudly presents the much awaited five-part TV special for the one and only Star For All Seasons aptly entitled ‘Vilma: A Woman for all Seasons’ airing on all Saturdays of August. Presented in a documentary-magazine and reality TV format, fans and viewers alike will be in for a real treat as the respected and veteran actress tells all in this once in a lifetime event. This five weekend special will tackle everything on the esteemed actress-turned-Governor – from the start of her career, to her term as a public servant as well as sneak peeks into her highly awaited and much talked about movie ‘In My Life’ with son Luis Manzano and blockbuster film actor John Lloyd Cruz. – Telebisyon.net (READ MORE)

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Reviews – The Kapamilya Network proudly presents the much awaited five-part TV special for the one and only Star For All Seasons aptly entitled ‘Vilma: A Woman for all Seasons’ available on TFCnow’s Premium Edition, starting the first Saturday of August. Presented in a documentary-magazine and reality TV format, fans and viewers alike will be in for a real treat as the respected and veteran actress tells all in this once in a lifetime event. This five episode special will tackle everything on the esteemed actress-turned-Governor – from the start of her career, to her term as a public servant as well as sneak peeks into her highly awaited and much talked about movie ‘In My Life’ with son Luis Manzano and blockbuster film actor John Lloyd Cruz. The first episode (available starting August 1), hosted by Claudine Barretto who has worked with Vilma in the drama film ‘Anak,’ showcases Vilma as an actress/ artist, being the four-time grand slam Best Actress in various award-giving bodies as well as receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards from Cinemanila and FAP among others. This also highlights a special acting workshop by Vilma herself in collaboration with respected director Laurice Guillen for hand-picked Star Magic talents who will imitate scenes from her unforgettable movies.

This exclusive workshop is undeniably a must-see and is participated by the likes of Primetime Princess Kim Chiu (who acted out the scene in the film “Dolzura Cortez” where PDA scholar Bugoy bravely faced Kim’s slapping hand), indie King turned mainstream actor Coco Martin, host and singer Nikki Gil, breakthrough kontravida beauty Megan Young, some of the favorite PDA and Pinoy Fear Factor stars as well as the rest of the Star Magic family. On the following week (available starting August 8), viewers will see Vilma as a TV host, dancer and performer. With funny man Vhong Navarro adding laughter with his comical antics and wacky remarks as the host, the Star for all Seasons shares some of her insights and experiences during tapings and shootings – from unavoidable health concerns and even to romantic problems with her good-looking leading men. We will relive the days of “VIP” show where she used to do her special numbers in her most colorful costume and danced the most complicated dance routines by no less than Maribeth Bichara. Joining the prized actress in the dance workshop are young stars Shaina Magdayao, Angelica Panganiban, Iya Villania, Empress Shuck, Nina Dolino, Princess Ryan and Dianne Medina. Definitely something to look forward to is the much-awaited dance number of Vilma with the said stars!

Next episode (available starting August 15), fans and supporters will have an exclusive preview of Vilma’s private world as one of the young actresses closest to her heart, teleserye Princess Angel Locsin hosts this very personal chapter. Vilma welcomes viewers into her home in Alabang which is the very first time her private quarters will be shown on Philippine television. Featuring the prized actress as a wife, mother, sister and friend, we will see how she spends her free time at home and what a ‘normal’ family day is in the life of Governor Vi. On the fourth installment (available starting August 22), Vilma is shown as an empowered Filipina leader being the hands-on and the first woman Governor of Batangas and a UP Gawad Plaridel Awardee for her achievements as an actress and a public servant. Capping off this five-episode special (available starting August 29) is your very own VIP pass into the making of Vilma’s movie, ‘In My Life’ with eldest son Luis and John Lloyd who will also serve as the hosts. Be the first to peer into some of the movie scenes and events shot at the colorful city of New York, listen in on some selected interviews with the cast and crew as well as trivia on the much-anticipated film and get an exclusive sneak peek into the never before seen behind-the-scenes shots. – TFC Now (READ MORE)

As a wife and mother – The Aug. 15 episode has the answer: For the first time, the actress allows a TV crew to shoot inside her new house in Alabang. The episode will also display the musical talents of hubby Ralph Recto and second son, Ryan Christian. The fourth episode focuses on Vilma as a public servant. And, for the final episode, she will be seen during the shooting of her forthcoming movie with her son, Luis, and John Lloyd Cruz. Parenthetically, she told us that she doesn’t aspire for the country’s vice presidency because all her plans are exclusively for Batangas. – Remy M. Umerez, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 07 Aug 2009 (READ MORE)

Vilma ‘s Achievements – Before moviegoers get to see Vilma Santos on the big screen this September, Vilmanians will have the chance to see her on ABS-CBN’s five-week special dedicated to the Star for All Seasons. Dubbed Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons, this is a separate TV show that will air right after Maalaala Mo Kaya every Saturday night. According to a source from ABS-CBN, this TV show highlights Vilma ‘s achievements as an actress, a mother, and as a public servant. It will also feature behind-the-scene videos of Vilma being directed by Olivia Lamasan in the upcoming Star Cinema movie In My Life. This movie, shot partly in New York, marks Vilma’s return to the big screen after starring in Mano Po 3: My Love (2004). In My Life also stars Vilma’s son, Luis Manzano, and John Lloyd Cruz. The highly anticipated movie includes intimate scenes of Luis and John Lloyd who play gay lovers. Catch Vilma: A Woman For All Seasons on all Saturdays of August, airing right after Maalaala Mo Kaya on ABS-CBN. – Jocelyn Dimaculangan, PEP, 20 July 2009 (READ MORE)

Megan’s Dilemma – Megan Young’s biggest break in showbiz to date was her role as Marcella on I Love Betty La Fea. She was so good at it that many viewers started to notice her as one of the most promising actresses today. This is the very reason why she was also hand-picked to attend the special acting workshop led by Vilma Santos for her TV special A Woman For All Seasons on ABS-CBN. But as seen last Saturday, August 1, Megan wasn’t able to slap Vilma during their on-the-spot acting showdown. It elicited various reactions amongst the audience and fortunately, ABS-CBN.com caught up with the young star to ask her what really happened back then. Apparently, she was too mesmerized with Vilma’s powerful presence that she could hardly think of the right things to say and, much more the momentum to deliver that slap. “I was gonna, I really was…kasi naghahanap ako ng tyempo nung una and then I couldn’t find one. When she was talking to me (in a gentle manner), ‘Anak sampalin mo ako ha…’ I was looking into her eyes, she’s just… I got so star struck. I was thinking how am I going to slap her. Am I supposed to do it hard? With me thinking of so many things, hindi ko na siya nasampal,” she vividly recalled.

A friend of hers who was able to watch the show later told Megan that she was actually good in the sense that she was able to shed tears right there and then. Only to realize that she was genuinely crying because of the difficult situation she was in. “In the middle of it, I was so embarrassed kasi I was saying a lot of stuff that really embarrassed me. Everybody was laughing. Actually they said na it became a comedy skit. I tried to absorb it (the insults that Vilma was hurling at her as part of the acting session) but I wasn’t that focused. At that time I just forgot all the stuff that I learned from my workshops because I was just so intimidated by her.” When Megan got invited to the said event, she had no idea that it’s actually an acting workshop-slash-open forum that would be shown on TV. “They only told me that day so hindi ako emotionally prepared. The reason why I cried talaga is I was scared out of my mind that I won’t be able to slap her, and I didn’t. Actually lahat kami akala namin manonood kami ng movie ni Vilma. Yun nga, I didn’t know na ipapalabas siya sa TV. So after the workshop sabi ko pa okay I’ll just work on it next time,” she added. Nevertheless, Megan stressed that she really learned from the whole experience, and hopefully, she would get the chance to redeem herself in another acting stint with Vilma. “In the end, I learned from it and she was really nice about it pa. All I can say is that you learn from your mistakes. How can you grow as a person if you don’t make this kind of mistake? I am not saying that go ahead make mistakes, you can learn from them. But you just have to get over it na rin. Do what’s right next time,” she wisely stated. – ABS-CBN Corporate Communications, Puah, 8/05/2009 (READ MORE)

A Special Show – ABS-CBN wants a TV special for Gov. Vilma Santos in connection with her new movie, “In My Life.” “I told them ayoko ng usual tribute,” she says. “I just want it to be a sharing na lang of my experiences in acting with their new stars, not because I’m good at it but because of the wealth of experiences I gained sa tagal ko sa showbiz. Biro nyo, 38 na ko ngayon, next year 37 na ko,” she laughs. The five-part special, “A Woman for All Seasons,” will be shown on all Saturdays of August, after “Maalaala Mo Kaya.” The first special on August 1 will focus on acting, done workshop-style with Claudine Barretto as host and director Laurice Guillen as facilitator. New stars of ABS-CBN attended it and gained first-hand information from Gov. Vi about her craft as an actress. Kim Chiu acted out scenes from her “Dolzura Cortez Story” while Nikki Gil and Coco Martin acted out her scenes with Christopher de Leon in “Broken Marriage,” both award-winning films. “I’m excited as this is the first time this is done on TV. I just noticed, intimidated sila sa’kin. I did a scene with Megan Young na she’s supposed to slap me, pero hindi niya ako masampal. Naranasan ko rin yan noon when I did ‘Modelong Tanso’ with Charito Solis.”

The second special on August 8 is hosted by Vhong Navarro and centers on her experiences as a TV star, especially her dancing. She gets to dance again, like she used to in the fabulous opening numbers of her “Vilma” show. “I love dancing at na-miss ko talaga. Pero siempre, wala na nung liftings kundi simpler moves, pinaubaya ko na yun sa mga bagets na kasayaw ko like Angelica Panganiban, Shaina Magdayao, Iya Villania, Empress Shuck and others. But later, nag-hiphop din ako.” The episode on August 15 will show Ate Vi as a wife and mom. “For the first time, I allowed a TV crew to show our new home in Alabang. They will join us on a Sunday, which is family day for me, and they’ll see the musical side of Ralph and Ryan Christian who’ll do a musical number na parang rock band. This will be hosted by Angel Locsin.” The fourth episode on August 22 will show her as a public servant. The TV crew will shoot her as she goes to the Batangas capitol to join the flag ceremony and show what a typical day for her is as its first lady governor and a truly empowered Filipina. The fifth and final episode will show the making of “In My Life” on location in New York with son Luis Manzano and John Lloyd Cruz. This is a Ate Vi’s grand comeback from the movie scene and it already created a big, loud buzz. The movie has a September 16 showing and will have its premiere on September 15 in Manila, Batangas, and in the USA. – Mario Bautista, posted at Pinoy Exchange Forum

Revered Multi-faceted Woman – ABS-CBN proudly presents a grand five-part television special featuring Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos. The TV special, dubbed “Vilma: A Woman for all Seasons,” will air on all Saturdays of August. Presented in a documentary-magazine and reality TV format, fans and viewers will be in for a real treat as the revered multi-faceted woman bares her life. She will also tackle her highly awaited movie, “In My Life,” with son Luis Manzano and blockbuster film actor John Lloyd Cruz. Known as the “Star for All Seasons,” Santos is considered a veteran in the entertainment industry. She started her career in show business when she was only 9 years old. Santos won her very first acting trophy as FAMAS best child performer for the film Trudis Liit (Little Trudis). Since then, the respected actress appeared in more than 200 films and various TV programs over the years. She also won the respect of the most prestigious award-giving bodies for movies and television such as FAMAS, Gawad Urian, PMPC and Catholic Mass Media awards. Aside from bringing entertainment to Filipinos, Santos also has a heart for public service. She is currently in politics as the first woman governor of Batangas. She was also the first woman mayor of Lipa City. She is a doting mother to two wonderful sons and a loving wife to fellow public servant Ralph Recto. – ABS-CBN News (READ MORE)

The Seasons – “The camp of Gov. Vilma Santos credits movie journalist JC Nigado for giving the actress-turned-politician the tag Star for All Seasons. For the longest time — since the early ’70s, rival Nora Aunor was called Superstar. In 1986, Sharon Cuneta was built up as the Megastar and yet Vilma remained untitled. In 1988, when Vilma marked her 25th year in show business in a PICC extravaganza put up by GMA 7 with the help of Chit Guerrero for her weekly variety show, Vilma!, Nigado wrote a series of articles where he called her Star for All Seasons. Other titles were coined for other stars after that, but only a few managed to maintain those titles and Vilma is undeniably one of them. Tonight, after Charo Santos’ Maalaala Mo Kaya, ABS-CBN will start airing a five-part special called Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons, which will trace the various facets of her life and career as an actress (the only one with four grand-slam wins), as a TV host and dancer (her Vilma! show on GMA 7 that ran for nine years was the best-produced — without question), as a wife and mother (the first time she is showing her new home in Alabang — a must-see on Aug. 15) and as a public servant (her image as Lipa mayor first and now Batangas governor is untainted). For the final episode on Aug. 29, son Luis Manzano will show viewers some of the behind-the-scenes in the making of their movie All My Life, which will be shown by Star Cinema in September. I had a reunion with Vilma recently and we both agreed that the title Woman/Star for All Seasons is so apt for her because she had been through all the seasons of life round and round. Together, we sat down to trace the various seasons of her life…” – Butch Francisco, Philippine Star, 01 August 2009 (READ MORE)

The Seasons in Vilma’s Life

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ARTICLES - Glamourous Life Black 6The camp of Gov. Vilma Santos credits movie journalist JC Nigado for giving the actress-turned-politician the tag Star for All Seasons. For the longest time — since the early ’70s, rival Nora Aunor was called Superstar. In 1986, Sharon Cuneta was built up as the Megastar and yet Vilma remained untitled. In 1988, when Vilma marked her 25th year in show business in a PICC extravaganza put up by GMA 7 with the help of Chit Guerrero for her weekly variety show, Vilma!, Nigado wrote a series of articles where he called her Star for All Seasons. Other titles were coined for other stars after that, but only a few managed to maintain those titles and Vilma is undeniably one of them. Tonight, after Charo Santos’ Maalaala Mo Kaya, ABS-CBN will start airing a five-part special called Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons, which will trace the various facets of her life and career as an actress (the only one with four grand-slam wins), as a TV host and dancer (her Vilma! show on GMA 7 that ran for nine years was the best-produced — without question), as a wife and mother (the first time she is showing her new home in Alabang — a must-see on Aug. 15) and as a public servant (her image as Lipa mayor first and now Batangas governor is untainted). For the final episode on Aug. 29, son Luis Manzano will show viewers some of the behind-the-scenes in the making of their movie All My Life, which will be shown by Star Cinema in September. I had a reunion with Vilma recently and we both agreed that the title Woman/Star for All Seasons is so apt for her because she had been through all the seasons of life round and round. Together, we sat down to trace the various seasons of her life.

Happiest – “When I gave birth to my son Luis/Lucky — lucky talaga siya…When I evolved as an actress and, modesty aside, started getting those grand-slam awards…When I was given a second chance at marriage. Imagine, si Ralph (her husband, NEDA chief Recto), binata and he inherited an instant family…When I gave birth to my other son, Ryan and he grew up to be a healthy boy,” she still sighs with relief now. “That was a difficult pregnancy that made me stay in bed for months.” The truth is, practically the whole nation prayed for her successful delivery and we are all happy that Ryan has turned into a bright and intelligent teenager.

Saddest – “When I discovered in the late ‘70s that financially I was negative P16-M.” This was due to failed investments and mismanagement, particularly of her movie production outfit, VS Films. “The interest of the bank loans I made, I didn’t realize I had already accumulated — from P2-M, it swelled to P7-M. When I woke up one day, wala na akong ari-arian. All my assets were frozen because I also had problems with the BIR.” To her credit, she slaved it out to be able to recover and pay her bank debts. She did films left and right, but she never enjoyed her talent fees from those blockbusters because all these went straight to the bank and to the BIR. For her upkeep (she had to eat, too, of course and maintain a staff), she accepted the offer to do the BBC-2 variety show V.I.P. (Vilma in Person) that aired live Sundays. Looking back, that contributed to the failure of her first marriage (to Edu Manzano) because she had to sacrifice her Sundays, which was supposed to be family day…Also sad was the passing away of my father in 1986.” Even local showbiz mourned the death of Amado Santos because he was a good man and was missed by all.

Frustrating – “When my first marriage failed. But God is good. He gave me another chance — and may bonus pa na another son…When my career went down in the late ‘70s and for that I only blame myself because those were the years I was being unprofessional. For example, there was this Christmas presentation I was supposed to do and I fled to Baguio. I did not show up on the set.” Now, I really salute her because it takes a big person to admit that mistake when she could have passed on the blame on other people and even the system. But that’s Vilma Santos.

Rebellious – “When I put my personal life and happiness over my career. Height ng katigasan ng ulo ko ‘yun. I was doing five to six movies a year and maybe na-burn out din ako. I was looking for independence. I wanted my freedom.” She says that her rebellious years happened when she was between 24 to 27 years old. Actually, if you ask me, she started rebelling late. She must have really been up to here to rebel at that point of her life.

Scariest – “If you want me to panic and get scared, tell me that one of my family members is ill. If one of my children is sick, I don’t work — I don’t even sleep. I stay beside my child all the time.” I witnessed that myself when Luis got sick (was it dengue?) before he reached his teens. Nothing and nobody could make Vilma get out of the hospital room (maybe not even an earthquake) because she wanted to stay with her first-born all throughout the ordeal. No tapings, no shoots. If only for that, she should have been awarded best mother of the year. “Even with Ryan now, kaunting lagnat lang, I take his temperature every hour — until he gets annoyed with me na. Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Most Romantic – “All seasons,” she says, letting out a hearty laughter. People have extolled Vilma Santos as a great performer and politician. But has anyone cited her for being witty, too? – Butch Francisco, Philippine Star, 01 August 2009 (READ MORE)

Once There was a Love (1991)

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Basic Information: Direction: Maryo J. De Los Reyes; Cast: Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach, Mari Kaimo; Loly Mara, Ana Feliciano, Minnie Aguilar, Pilar De Leon; Story: Raquel N. Villavicencio; Executive Producer: Chit A. Guerrero; Associate Producer: Arnel S. Natividad; Assistant Director: Jun Payawal; Production manager Pong Mercado; Technical Director: Mar Matias; Technical Supervisor: Romy Veron; Production Designer: Judy Lou De Pio; Director of Photography: Charlie Peralta; Production Supervisor: Aida Pandialan; Assistants to the Director: Lowee Boots, Angelo G. Martin; Production Assistants: Vangie M. Parinas, Lorna Montero; Supervising Editor: Jess Navarro; VTR Editor: Bong Cruz; Talent Coordinator: Mae Esguerra; PRO: Jun Nardo, The El Oro Group; Musical Scorer: Ruben Cadsawan; Cameramen: Bong Cerezo, Arthur Lintag, Ben Resuta, Lando Quiambao, Willy Bustaquio; Art Director: Ding Habal; Propsmen: Angelo De Vera, Rede Moveno; Custume Mistress: Marivic Padilla; Audiomen: Obet Salad, Dado Estandarte; Lightning consultants of GMA-7: Rene Saves, Alex Teston; Stills: Gerry Ocampo, Rod Samson; Charger Operator: Maloy De Jesus; Make-up Artist: Carmen Espineli; Hair Dresser: Medy Sordan of Jun Encarnacion; Sketches: Gerrie Francisco; Utility: Marie Barbarqui, Andy Topacio, Helen Vergarra; Production Services: Erming Nicdao; Post Production: Gammatex Video Services, GMA-7; Producers: Vilma Santos Inc., GMA-7 Radio and Television Arts; Released on video by Viva Films

Plot Description: Soon to be married Sylvia (Vilma Santos) met a younger man, Jason (Agah Muhlach) when the later asked to stay temporarily in her house. He run away from his rich parents who wanted him to leave the country permanently. The two fell-in love but got into a car accident when they decided to elope after his parents discovered their relationship. When Jason died Sylvia decided not to marry his fiance, Mari (Mari Kaimo). – FRV

Film Achievement: First colloboration between Aga Muhlack and Vilma Santos (the other projects were Sinungaling Mong Puso in 1992 and Nag-iisang Bituin in 1994).

Film Review: – Once there was a love started as Sylvia (Vilma Santos) is about to get married. She looks hesitating but she is fully dressed in her wedding gown and asked her helper to temporarily leave her alone. Afterwards she took a picture of a man in her drawer and the flask back story starts. Jason (Aga Muhlach) came to Manila from Davao. He went to see Sylvia’s niece who used to live with her. Sylvia’s niece no longer lives with her and so he asked him to leave. For some reason she had this inclination to help him and she allowed him to stay in her house temporarily undil he found a place to stay. As turned out Jason’s parent died from a plane crash and he has nowhere to go. For some reason Sylvia allowed the young adult to stay in her placed more until he found a job.

As both become comfortable at each other, they found they have chemistry and the next scenes where the cutesy stages comes in as the old woman falls for the younger guy. Sylvia as turned out is a frustrated artist, she inherited her parent’s wealth but decided to continue her career. When Jason found a temporary job, she asked him to still stay at her place as their relationship blosooms despite their age gap. Then Sylvia’s fiance, Mari (Mari Kaimo) came back from abroad and triangle begins. Sylvia lied to Mari and introduced Jason as their neighbour, who is using their pool to help him with his water theraphy for his broken leg.

Broken-hearted, he then decided to leave Sylvia’s place and moved to his work place. Sylvia and Jason got together a second time when he visited her in a house party after a few weeks and because the dog they adopted together died while crossing the street in his new placed. The two were sad about the news and the attraction finally caved in and they had sex. Sylvia postponed the wedding with Mari. Mari confronted her action but she remained firm about her decision. Sylvia and Jason continued their decision until his mom came out from the scene, as it turned out their both alive and he elope the family because he doesn’t want to go with them in Canada. His mother then warned them that she will file a lawsuit against Sylvia for corruption of minor.

Jason left Sylvia’s place but called her one night with the idea of both of them eloping. She met her in a bus station but she said no and he left for an unknow destination. But Sylvia had a change of heart and she drove to follow the bus. She finally catched up with Jason and they drove to an unknown destination. All is well until they reached their final destination. The two had an car accident. Sylvia survived but Jason died. Flash back to current day, Sylvia’s wedding day, Mari asked her not to continue the wedding if she is no longer loves him, if she still in love with the dead, Jason. The film for TV ended with Sylvia talking to the dead Jason from the hospital bed.

This was the prelude to Vi-Aga’s box-office hit movie, “Sinungaling Mong Puso” under Regal Films. It is obvious that Vi and Aga has a charisma on screen. Despite the obvious real life age gap, their roles in both this film for TV and the Regal produced film, made their real-life ages not a hindrance but realistic treatment to the May-December affair genre. Obviously, the film is better and their roles in the film were fully developed compare to this TV movie.

Nevertheless both Vilma and Aga gave a convincing performances. Aga has shown the dramatic prowess he possessed during this early part of his career. As Jason, he brought his boyishly look and natural timing with his light moments with Vi just like in Sinungaling Mong Puso in their first meeting scenes in a disco bar. Btw, Aga’s Characters in, Once There was a Love and Sinungaling Mong Puso, were both named Jason. Vilma on the other hand had a weak start but came out strong at the very end. We can’t just believe she decided to allowed a stranger to her house in a middle of the night and fall for him, even taking care of him after one night. It lacks the preparation for the two characters to fall for each other that quick, unlike in Sinungaling Mong Puso where their first meeting was more convincing, we were prepared as both characters were established early on with their boring lives. Mari Kamio’s performance here is also weak and he obviously didn’t speak Tagalog.

Raquel Villavicencio’s writing here is not at far with her other works like Minsan pa nating hagkan ang nakaraan, Ibigay Mo Sa Akin Ang Bukas and Relasyon. Maryo De Los Reyes’ direction was quite limited to it’s TV genre, with slow pacing and commercial breaks even made it more tedious to watch. The scoring of Ruben Cadsawan, was so bad its like watching an old soap opera from the radio days of Tiya Delly (Yes, Ruben is the musical director of Vilma)! The so called “canned” music screaming in our ears in almost every dramatic scenes. Two pop music came out during its major scenes, Phil Collins’ “Grovy Kind of Love” and Roxette’s “It Must Have Been Love” – both songs made the scenes so melodramatic and quite distracting.

Overall, “Once there was a Love” is good prep for Vi-Aga’s team, (they ended up doing two films, “Sinungaling Mong Puso” and “Nag-Iisang Bituin”) but it’s limitation was so evident with its lack of character development, shallow story telling, and low production value. Although this is a film made for television, it is quire a disappointment that this is Vilma Santos produced project considering she is not a newbie when it comes producing.” – FRV

“…Aga’s on and off career worked to a great disadvantage, making producers and fans shun away from him. However, his wholesome, totally refreshing and boyishly-appealing look makes him adorable on screen. His latest TV opus with Vilma Santos titled “Once There Was a Love” was a success prompting many producers to get him again in the movies. Asked why his carer never really took off, he says: “Well, I lack the much-needed support in my career. There were many times I’m almost there, tapos wala namang kasunod agad; so napaglilipasan agad, di ba? I am also partly to be blamed because I was in a limbo for a while. All I know and care about is that I have the money spend on luxurious cars, squash, water sports and my nightlife. I also keep on changing managers.” This year, Aga is quite determined to become serious with his career. he’s slated to do movies outside Regal Films – for RJ Films, Seiko and Viva. It also means having to lose weight for his comeback on the big screen. He says: “I want to look really good when I start doing more movies this year. I’m on a liquid diet. I don’t eat anything. For the meantime I only drink juice, water and slim-fast.” Aside from cutting his food intake, Aga likewise cuts his expenses. “I’m really saving for the future now. I can’t afford to maintain more expensive cars (at the moment he only owns two European cars, a 230-E and a 7-35). I also have to do away with my water sports for awhile. Alam ko ang mawalan ng pera and one thing with me, I never run to my parents to ask for some if I need it. Ever since I started working at afe 14, I’m my own…” – Jackie R, Manila Standard, 9 Jan 1991, p17 (READ MORE)

“… A kind of homage is paid her when she’s paired with younger stars like Eric Quizon and Aga Muhlach. “Definitely, I feel flattered. But then I feel very very secure in my age and with myself. It’s a matter of self-confidence, of knowing that when they look at you they see a woman, period. Age doesn’t matter: I have no insecurities about it.” She knows she can look as young as, or younger than, her new leading men – as long as she herself feels young inside…She says she has no hang ups about age. But how does she keep herself looking young? “I don’t know. I don’t do anything special. I used to swim but I don’t have the time now. I don’t cut down on anything. I drink occasionally but I’m not really a drinker. My true enemy is tobacco: I smoke. Aside from that, I know no other vices. On facing the camera, whether movie or TV, I put on make up. But Vilma Santos the person, when in her house, puts nothing on her face.” She is positive it’s not make-up that makes her go over on the little or big screen as young-looking…” – Quijano De Manila, Philippine Graphic Magazine, 05 Nov 1990 (READ MORE)

“…Vi said that her latest movie, Sinungaling Mong Puso, slated to open today, is inspired by her tele-movie, “Once There Was A Love” which also starred Aga Muhlach. I really wanted Aga to be my leading man in this movie since we started our tele-movie.” The movie also reminded her of the time when she and Ralph met for the first time. He was then only 21, or 11 years her junior. Vi does not plan to stop making movies, “I’ll be bored with just being a housewife,” she averred. “Sinungaling…, she said, “is the story of three women and how they relate to the men in their lives. This is more intense compared to Ipagpatawad Mo. She is set to do two more movies this year, one for Moviestars with Cesar Montano and Ronnie Rickets to be directed by Chito Rono; and another for OctoArts with perennial screen partner, Christopher de Leon with Mike de Leon as director…” – Nena Villanueva, Manila Standard, 27 Aug 1992 (READ MORE)


Video credit: Alan NYC ViSion

Special Film: Love Letters

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“…Love Letters (1970) is a musical films specially made for the fans of “teeny-bopper” stars, Vi and Bot. The film was probably shot with improvisations, which means, without a written script. This was noticeably clear as the film’s main characters and the actual names of the actors were not change at all. The film’s main plot was the the stealing of love letters that ended in court, followed by picket line (ala-”Occupy” Wall Street) that was hard to believe. And also the one-after the other testimonies of Edgar, Vilma and both parents that were irritatingly funny. Although we are used to Vilma’s tolereable singing, we’re more surprise to see a singing Alona Alegre! She looked more like Eugene Domingo (clearly before her sexy films/image). One more thing, Alona’s wedding gown was worth a second look, its not like your ordinary wedding gown. The head piece was a beaded hood that covers her hair and neck. With so much singing, Baby De Jesus’s voice stands out among the girls but her piano playing acting was over the top. Victor Wood’s duet with Edgar Mortiz, “Beautiful Dreamers” is worth downloading. Danny Subido was responsible for inserting all the musical numbers that was quite a tasks particularly without a well written musical screenplay. The film was shot in Baguio City and cinematographer, Avelino Peralta’s did a wonderful job showcasing the city on Vilma’s day dreaming except for the akward courtscenes. Love Letters was produced by Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Production and directed by Abraham Cruz, a forgettable film that only a die hard Vi and Bot fans (and those who loves film nostalgia) can only appreciate…” – RV (READ MORE)

Source: gobitz69

Edgar “Bobot” Mortiz (born September 8, 1954) is a Filipino movie/TV actor and director. Mortiz is married to Millette Santos (born 1960; sister of Charo Santos-Concio) on April 3, 1977, with 4 children: Edgar Francis “Frasco” (born 1978), Edgar Albert “Badjie” (born 1980), Ma. Carmela Catalin “Calin” (born 1981) and Ma. Frances Camille (born 1983). Frasco, Badji and Camille are now married giving Edgar five cute grandchildren named Joaquin Edgar, Julien Alva, Edgar Carlos, Jayla Sophia and Francis Marcus. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

FAIR USE NOTICE (NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE): This site contains copyrighted materials the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to preserve the film legacies of actress, Vilma Santos, and to make her career information available to future generations. We believe this is NOT an infringement of any such copyrighted materials as in accordance to the the fair dealing clauses of both the Canadian and U.S. Copyright legislation, both of which allows users to engage in certain activities relating to research, private study, criticism, review, or news reporting. We are making an exerted effort to mention the source of the material, along with the name of the author, performer, maker, or broadcaster for the dealing to be fair, again in accordance with the allowable clauses. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Fernado Military Air Base Honoured Mayor Vi

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Dapat sana ay nung last Wednesday, January 17, 2007 kami pumunta ng Lipa City para sa “courtesy call” ng dalawang Vilmanian balikbayan na sina Franco Gabriel at Marilen Handley kay Mayor Vi subali’ t nagpasabi si Mayor Vi na meron siyang urgent na pupuntahan at sinabi nya na kinabukasan, January 18, 2007, Thursday na lang daw kami pumunta dun (may tribute kasi kay Mayor Vi ang kanyang mga barangay captains sa gabi) pero hindi naman pwede sina Franco at Marilen dahil may mga lakad din sila. So kahapon ang final date na napagkasunduang pupunta ng Lipa City. At tamang tama naman dahil sa araw na ito ay may Military Honor para kay Mayor Vi. Maaga ang call time dahil 10AM yata ang oras ng parangal kay Mayor Vi kaya alas sais pa lang ng umaga ay andun na kami ni June Sison sa Ortigas McDo fronting Meralco Building, Pasig City. At habang hinihintay namin ang van na sasakyan namin, na galing ng Broadway Centrum, Quezon City ay kumain muna kami ni June ng breakfast.

A little bit past seven ay dumating na ang aming hinihintay na van at guess kung sinu-sino ang mga sakay ng van? Well, andun lang naman bukod kay Jojo Lim sina Marilen Handley, Cesar Santiago, Noel de Guzman at Nar Santander. Batian at kwentuhan habang tumatakbo ang sasakyan at dadaanan pala namin si Liam Tayag sa harap ng kanyang condo unit kaya may nagbiro ng “i-ready nyo na ang inyong eardrum” dahil malapit na tayo sa duchees of Valle Verde (joke lang Liam…luv you!). Si Franco naman ay dumeretso na ng Lipa City. Si Eric Nadurata naman ay hindi nakasama dahil paalis sya ng alas otso ng gabi para sa isang official trip sa Anaheim near Los Angeles, California. BON VOYAGE ERIC!!! At totoo ka…dahil umaatikabong kwentuhan at kodakan ang nangyari sa loob ng van lalo pa at andyan si Liam na as usual ay palaging buhay na buhay sa kanyang mga kwento (may ganung factor?). Dumaan muna ang grupo sa Hen Lin (Sucat Branch yata yun) dahil magpapa-breakfast daw si Marilen. Although kumain na kami ng breakfast ni June at hindi namin mapahindian ang invitation ni Marilen…pero siguro naman hindi kami pwedeng i-charge ng “gluttony” dahil light lang naman ang kinain namin sa McDo…charingggggg! (i-justify ba?).

Mga alas diyes na kami nakarating ng Fernando Airbase (dumeretso na kami sa venue dahil malapit na ding dumating si Mayor Vi…as a matter of fact…sabi ni Jojo eh nakasabay namin sa highway ang sasakyan ni Mayor Vi…kasunod ang sasakyan ng kanyang mga bodyguards).  Nakaayos na ang mga balangay ng mga military men sa harap ng opisina…na nakasuot ng fatigue na pantalon at puting t-shirt…at andun na din ang ibang mga bisitang pumunta para saksihan ang naturang parangal.  Sa unahan…ay may dalawang mababang platform…na tutuntungan ni Mayor Vi at ng kumander na si Commander Inserto. Dumating si Mayor Vi na ang suot ay itim na pantalon at beige na blouse na may blazer na beige din ang kulay. Nakasuot sya ng shades at may military medal na kulay berde ang strap. Regal na regal ang dating pati ang kanyang paglakad papunta sa platform. Nang nasa platform na si Mayor Vi at si Commander Inserto ay humanda na ang mga military men para sa pagparada ni Mayor Vi sa kanilang harapan.  Sa totoo lang, ang daming naging “emotional” habang naglalakad si Mayor Vi at si Commander Inserto sa harap ng mga military men na sinabayan ng tugtog ng banda. As a matter of fact, hindi ko namamalayan na naging misty eyed na pala ako (ang drama ko ano?) at si Marilen naman ay tumulo na ang luha dahil nagpupunas na sya ng panyo.

Pagkatapos magparada si Mayor Vi at Commander Inserto ay bumalik na ulit sila sa platform. Bumulong naman si Commander Inserto kay Mayor Vi kung meron pa syang sasabihin sa mga military at agad nyang tinawag ang namumuno sa balangay. Sinabi ni Mayor Vi ang kanyang PASASALAMAT sa lahat ng mga military men…..so isinigaw nung namumuno ang sinabi ni Mayor Vi. By the way, andun si Mario Dumaual ng TV Patrol Channel 2 at si Lhar Santiago ng 24 Oras Channel 7.   Meron ding mga press photographers…..at kasamang kumukuha ng mga pictures of course…..si Liam. May video pa nga sya nang pumaparada si Mayor Vi at si Commander Inserto. Matapos ang military honor ay pumasok na sa loob ng Hautea Room si Mayor Vi at ang mga press photographers, Mario at Lhar. In-interview si Mayor Vi nina Mario at Lhar. Tinanong sya tungkol sa kung ano talaga ang tatakbuhan: governor, congresswoman or senator. Sinabi ni Mayor Vi na desidido daw si Ricky Recto na tumakbong governor at ayaw daw naman nya ang RECTO vs. RECTO. Ano na lang ang sasabihin ng ibang tao?  Aayusin daw muna nila ang gusot sa pagitan ng kanilang pamilya bago sya tumakbong governor. Kung governor ang tatabuhan nya ay medyo “tiring” daw yun pero nag-suggest yata si Senator Ralph na magkaroon ng deputy governor sa bawa’ t distrito ng Batangas at yun na lang ang magre-report sa governor (if ever). Kung congresswoman naman ay isang distrito lang ang hawak nya. Sinabi naman ni Mario na si Edu Manzano ay tatakbong senator at kaprtido ni Senator Ralph….so ang sagot ni Mayor Vi ay…..eh di parehong iboto. Tapos tinanong din sya kung may posibilidad na tumakbo syang senador…at ang sagot nya ay…naku baka magka roon ng “tr iang le” sa senado…hahahaha…pero definitely raw ay hindi sya tatakbong senador…si Senator Ralph na lang daw…Matapos ang interbyuhan ay tinawag naman si Mayor Vi ni Commander Inserto para sa isang “briefing” at makasama na din ang mga military men. At habang hinihintay namin si Mayor Vi…ay kumain muna kami ng handang pagkain…suman (dalawang klase, ang isa ay tinatawag na “sumang dapa”, yung may latik at parang matamis na bao), pakwan, saging lakatan at puto.

Nagdesisyon na kaming grupo (together with Dra. Ellen Villanueva at Ayleen ng Love Lipa Foundation) na pumunta na sa Golden Coco Restaurant at dun na lang namin hihintayin sina Mayor Vi.  Maswerte din talaga ang naging military honor para kay Mayor Vi dahil during the ceremony at kulimlim lang ang walang init ng araw…pero nung matapos ang seremonyas ay umambon ng malakas (ambon lang ha). Very cozy naman ang Golden Coco Restaurant na pag-aari pala ng nakakatandang kapatid ni Mayor Vi na si AteEmilyn.  Sa loob ng resto ay meron isang malaking frame na makikita ang aerial view ng Lipa City…meron din dingding na salamin…na may mga lumilipad na iba’ t ibang klaseng maliliit na ibon (parang mga love birds).  At wag isnabin ang mga pagkain alagang napakasasarap.  Katulad ng inorder namin. May hamburger, clubhouse, Kabayan meals (inihaw na baboy with manggang hilaw, kilawing tanige, inihaw na tilapia, kanin at ginataang hipon), inihaw na pusit, sisig na baboy at sisig na bangus…na dahil sa sobrang anghang ay tumulo ay taba (pawis) nina Jojo at Franco.  Meron pang iba’ t ibang klaseng fruit shake at “dessert” na buco salad. Talaga namang nabondat kami ng husto. Sina Mayor Vi naman ay sa mezzanine kumain ng tanghalian….at matapos kumain ay hinarap na kami. Ang dami dami naming napagkwentuhan. Nagkodakan. Nag-beso beso. Nabanggit pala ni Mayor Vi na binabasa nya yung librong ibinigay ni Jeannie Wong (how to climb a mountain) at ito daw ay sinusunod nya…well congrats Jeannie…talagang gustong gusto ni Mayor Vi yung librong ibinigay mo. Ibinulong ko naman kay Mayor Vi ang pangungumusta nina Josie Cohen Eugenio, Julie Haglund, Father Juancho de Leon at Master Joey Cruz. May isang anekdota si Mayor Vi na ikinuwento sa amin (although naikuwento na din ito ni Mama Santos) na nun palang binigyan sya ng tribute ng simbahan….nagkaroon ng misa at nung nangungumunyon na sya…si Archbishop Arguelles ang nagbibigay ng kumunyon…ay imbes na KATAWAN NI KRISTO ang sabihin…ang sinabi raw ay…sagutin mo na kami Ate Vi (meaning yung mga clamor ng simbahan at ng mga tao na tumakbong governor ay umoo na sya). Sabi naman ni Mayor Vi ay talaga raw mahirap magdesisyon dahil sya talaga ang nilalapitan ng mga tao at hindi mo basta sasagutin ng “NO” (kumbaga andun yung tiwala nila sa kanya) at talagang mahirap nang kumawala sa ganyang sitwasyon, di ba Father J? Nagtanong naman si Franco kung totoong pupunta sya ng New York para mag-shooting ng pelikula nila ni John Lloyd Cruz…..at ang sagot nya ay titingnan pa raw nya (sana nga ay matuloy na ito).

Binulungan naman sya ng kanyang bodyguard at sinabing may mga meeting pang naghihintay sa city hall kaya nagpaalam na din sya sa amin at sinabing….magme-mayor muna ako ha….. Maaga kaming umuwi ng Manila….dumaan muna kami sa condo unit ni Liam….at pagkatapos ay sa SM Megamall na kami nagpahatid nina Marilen, June, Cesar at Noel samantalang sina Jojo, Franco at Nar ay dumeretso na sa Greenhills. Nagyaya muna si Marilen na mag-coffee sa Figaro at dun ay nagkwentuhan na naman kami. At yan ang aming naging karanasan kahapon sa Military honor sa Fernando Airbase para kay Mayor Vi. Abangan na lang ninyo ang ALAM NYO BA? part 32 bukas, Friday o sa Sabado. Maraming salamat sa pagtitiyaga!!! – Alfonso Valencia, Photos by Liam Tayag, January 24, 2007 (READ MORE)