Vilma Santos-Recto is a popular multi-awarded actress and politician in the Republic of the Philippines. *** She is known as "Queen of Philippine Movies," "Queenstar," "Grand Slam Queen," "Box Office Queen," and "Star for All Seasons." *** This website is mostly about her iconic film career.
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.
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)
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)
“…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)
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)
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)
City After Dark, originally titled Manila by Night, is a 1980 drama film directed by Ishmael Bernal. Released at the height of the Marcos regime, the film uncovers the other face of Manila by depicting the ugly aspects of life in the city – unemployment, prostitution, drug addiction, and lack of decent housing. Considered as one of Bernal’s masterpieces, it is an epic multi-narrative of people who have shady pasts and are trying to exist in an unforgiving world. The film’s events take place in the course of one night, involving various protagonists and the city itself. William Martinez plays a folk singer from a rich family who becomes addicted to heroin through the influence of lesbian pusher and pimp, Cherie Gil. Martinez’s mother in the movie, played by Charito Solis, is herself a reformed prostitute who, like Lady Macbeth, is obsessed with cleaning her hands to remove the dirt of her past. She does her best to be respectable after marrying an ex-cop played by Johnny Wilson. Meanwhile, Cherie Gil’s character is in love with a blind masseuse, played by Rio Locsin, with two illegitimate children. Locsin lives with Jojo Santiago, whose character fantasizes of earning American dollars while working in Saudi Arabia. Another character, portrayed by Alma Moreno, is a nurse who, in reality, is a call girl. Her live-in taxi-driver lover, played by Orestes Ojeda, is fooling around with a waitress played by Lorna Tolentino, who is the presumed girlfriend of a gay couterier played by Bernardo Bernardo. As dawn breaks over the city, the bizarre lives of the characters of Manila’s nightlife seem like an alter-ego of the respectable, busy daytime world. – Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)
Ishmael Bernal (1938–1996) (30 September 1938 – 2 June 1996) was an acclaimed Filipino film, stage and television director. He was also an actor and screenwriter. Noted for his melodramas particularly with feminist and moral issues, his 1982 film Himala (Miracle) is often cited as one of the greatest Filipino films of all time. He is a National Artist of the Philippines. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
Maria Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos-Recto, more commonly known as Vilma Santos-Recto, or Ate Vi, and now Governor Vi, has made a stellar name for herself both in showbiz and in the political arena. Recognized as one of the original movie queens of Philippine cinema, she rose up to become one of the most versatile actresses in the industry. Throughout a career that spans nearly five decades, she has portrayed many iconic roles – from the heroine Darna, the rebellious Sister Stella L, to AIDS patient Dolzura Cortez – she has given a face to the plight of Filipino women amid the changing moral values of society. She did not only earn the title of “Star for All Seasons” – she has lived it. In fact, she has transcended beyond the “Star for All Seasons” title as she has also proven to be a “Star for all the right reasons.”
Mother of all – Gov. Vi might have shifted her priorities when she entered politics almost 14 years ago, yet she instills the same kind of passion in government service as she does in her acting career. She comes across as a no-nonsense public leader who is determined to serve her people—a job she takes so seriously that, as a consequence, made her sacrifice the showbiz career she had loved dearly. “Acting will always be in my blood,” she said. “But that’s now behind my task as a public servant. My first priority is of course my family. My family is my inspiration,” Gov. Vi told reporters during a press conference for her Nutrition Campaign with Bear Brand. This positive family values that she plainly manifests, combined with the guidance of her senator-husband and her approachable, pleasant personality, win over both her fans and her constituents. She considers the public that she serves as an extension of her family; the nurturing she gives her family is replicated in the larger context of her community. Together with Nestlé Philippines Chief Executive Officer John Miller and Councilor Joseph Juico of Quezon City, Gov. Vi attended the “Laki Sa Gatas Nutrition Education Advocacy,” program held on September 9 at the Bago Bantay Elementary School.
“I believe that health is no. 1,” she told reporters. “That’s why my priority programs are geared toward health. Before, education used to be my top priority, but I soon realized, how can our students learn if they are not healthy? How can they become competitive if they do not get the proper nutrition? “That is why in Batangas, I am initiating programs for the rehabilitation of hospitals, for the promotion of health cards and various nutrition programs,” Gov. Vi explained. For the past several years, the governor has become a staunch supporter of the said campaign that promotes the importance of proper nutrition. The campaign tours schools all over the country encouraging school kids, along with their moms, to drink milk, eat nutritious yet affordable food, and perform well in their studies so they could achieve their goals in life.
Lucky and movie matters – After promoting her advocacy, Gov. Vi then spent time with a very curious entertainment press to get her statement about certain issues. On the possibility of doing a movie with Superstar Nora Aunor, Vilma says she is not closing the doors, but admits that it would be very hard because of their schedules. “She has her own schedule and I have mine,” Gov. Vi explained. She adds that being a public servant has made it her even busier as she now has to attend to the needs of her constituents. “Let’s see, its better yung hindi mo alam na bigla na lang kayong nagkita.” As for her son Luis or “Lucky” who expressed his intent on following her political footsteps, Vilma said she wouldn’t do anything stop him. “Hindi ko naman siya mapipigil, but I told him that being a public servant isn’t easy.” “The first thing I asked him was if he’s ready to sacrifice his talent fee in exchange for a modest salary and he said ‘Yes.’” She added that her being a public servant of Batangas for the past 14 years probably had that effect on her son. “I bring him along whenever there are important occasions, so I guess he has an idea of the job I am doing. If he does decide to pursue politics, I think he has a good foundation already.”
“But if that is really what he wants, then I will be there to support him,” Gov. Vi promised. The beloved governor of Batangas gave the same answer when asked about Luis and Jennylyn Mercado. “When it comes to his lovelife I’ll just be here to support him,” she said adding, “I am here not to meddle or not to impose on anything when it comes to his lovelife.” She then gave her fans something to look forward to, announcing that shooting for her upcoming movie The Healing will begin next month. Joining her in the movie is Kim Chiu and it is said to be a horror movie about Filipinos strong belief in the power of alternative medicine. Whether it is in showbusiness, family or politics, Gov. Vi has proven that she has truly become not just a Woman for all Seasons but simply, a Woman for All. – Ed Uy Manila Times 16 September 2011 (READ MORE)
Vilma Santos, ‘di pinagbabago ng panahon! – “…Gusto lang naming batiin ang isang artista na hindi ipinaramdam sa amin kung anong posisyon meron siya ngayon. Kaya nga love na love namin siya, dahil ever since, mas gusto niyang “ate” ang itawag sa kanya kesa sa “Gov”. Sino pa nga ba ang aming tinutukoy kundi si Batangas Governor Vilma Santos Recto na ang edad ay hindi na namin itatanong, dahil mortal sin ‘yon. Pero sa amin, si Ate Vi ay hindi pinagbabago ng panahon ang mukha. Saka ang ugali, in fairness, kahit yata ano ang marating ng taong ito, nananatiling nakatapak sa lupa ang mga paa. Nakatrabaho ko na ang mga “stars” at si Ate Vi ‘yung talagang she will go out of her way to reach you, kaya nahihiya kami sa kanya pagka gano’n. Si Ate Vi ay lagi rin naming ka-BBM. At siya rin ‘yung nanay na paalala nang paalala na kami na raw ang bahala kay Luis habang wala siya, kaya nagpapaka-feeling madir naman kami rito kay Luis. At this point (me at this point pa kaming nalalaman, huh!) ay gusto naming pasalamatan si Ate Vi for being a good daughter to her mom, a good sister to her siblings, a good mom to Luis and Ryan Christian, a good wife to Sen. Ralph Recto, a good public servant to her cons-tituents in Batangas. And a good person. Thank you, Ate Vi! Lagi mong iingatan ang iyong kalusugan, dahil kaila-ngan ka pa ng industriya, ng iyong nasasakupan at ng iyong pamilya. Love na love ko ‘yan, promise. I’m sure, ganu’n din ang feeling n’yo…” – Ogie Diaz, Pinoy Parazzi, 04 November 2011 (READ MORE)
A Star For All Seasons
Taong 1962 nang pumasok si Vilma Santos sa showbiz bilang child actress. Ilang taon po kayo noon?
“Walo. Una kong nakuha for ‘Anak, ang Iyong Ina’ with Gloria Romero. Rosa Vilma pa ako, my real name. Eh ang dami ng Rosa sa showbiz like Rosa Mia, Rosa Rosal, Rosa Aguirre. So inalis yung Rosa. Tapos nakuha ko for ‘Trudis Liit’ na siyang mas unang naipalabas noong 1963 and now considered my debut movie.” Ipinagdiriwang niya ngayon ang kanyang ika-50 anibersaryo sa showbiz. May isang TV special na inihahanda ang ABS-CBN at ipalalabas sa Nobyembre kasabay sa pagdiriwang din ng kanyang ika-59 na kaarawan sa Nobyembre 3.
Ano ang masasabi niyang highlights ng 50 taon niya sa showbiz?
“Teka, hindi kaya nagkamali sila ng bilang? 50 na agad, eh 39 pa lang ako, ah. Ha-ha-ha! Naku, napakaraming highlights ng career ko. Sa dami lang ng nagawa kong movies na pwede ko ipagmalaki. Eh yung TV career ko pa. Naging recording star pa akong kumakanta ng ‘Sweet 16’ at ‘Bobby, Bobby, Bobby’. Eh yung mga na-link pa sa’kin? Baka maubos ang pahina ng interview mo. First movie ko pa lang, nanalo na kong best child actress kaya di ko na mabilang ang trophies ko. Very proud din akong lahat ng top directors natin, nakatrabaho ko, from Bernal and Brocka to Guillen, Abaya, Rono. Pero syempre ang proudest highlight is yung narito pa rin ako after 50 years. Hindi ako tumigil sa pag-aartista. Tuloy-tuloy ako sa pag-arte hanggang nag-teenager ako. And up to now, heto, aktibo pa rin sa showbiz. Nagpapasalamat ako’t sinuportahan ng tao at naging big hit ang last movie kong ‘The Healing’. Dahil dito, may bagong offer ako from Star Cinema to do another movie. May offers din ako from indie producers and directors. Pero syempre, priority ko ngayon is serving my constituents in Batangas as their Governor. Tuwing gagawa nga ako ng pelikula, nagpapaalam muna ako sa kanila.”
May balak ba siyang sulatin ang kanyang autobiography?
“Maraming nagsa-suggest, memoirs daw. Naku, eh hindi pwedeng isang libro lang, sa dami ng nangyari sa buhay ko. Sa showbiz pa lang, ilang volumes na. Eh sa public service at politics pa? Nang mahalal akong Mayor ng Lipa in 1998, minamaliit ako ng detractors ko pero napatunayan kong mali sila. Ngayon, second term ko na as governor ng probinsiya namin and I’m proud sa dami ng nagawa ko for my HEARTS program, which stands for Health, Education, Arts, Roads, Technology and Science.”
Sa isang survey, lumabas na isa siya sa top choice as Senator sa 2013 Elections. Tatakbo ba siyang senador?
“Naku, hindi. May isang term pa ko as governor. Tatapusin ko muna yun dahil marami pa kong plans for Batangas. Wala sa isip kong tumakbo for a national post. Sa bagay, wala rin sa isip ko noong mag-politics, but the Lord willed it. So, Siya lang ang nakakaalam.”
Anong masasabi niyang maraming nagreklamo na hindi the usual drama movie ang ginawa niya sa “The Healing” kundi isang horror-thiller?
“Kasi ine-expect nga nila, drama uli ang gagawin ko. But ako talaga ang nag-request kay Direk Chito Rono ng horror para maiba naman. Oh, tinangkilik din naman ng tao, ah. At napansin ko nga, pati mga kabataang dati`y hindi naman mahilig sa drama movies ko, aba, barka-barkadahang pumapasok dito sa mall theatres. I’d like to think na dahil dito, I’ve reached a wider audience.”
Totoo bang siya ang pumipili ng simbahang pwedeng pagkasalan sa panganay niyang si Luis Manzano at sa kasintahan nitong si Jennylyn Mercado?
“Naku, hindi. Nakailang girlfriends na yan pero never akong nakialam sa lovelife ng anak ko. But I’m happy kasi nakikita kong happy siya ngayon kay Jen.”
Paano niya ilalarawan ang sarili niya bilang isang ina?
“Very liberal ako. Never akong namalo. Para lang kaming magkakaibigan. Kasama sa mga pinakamaliligayang sandali sa buhay ko ang pagsisilang ko kay Luis noong 1981 at kay Ryan Christian noong 1996. And I’m so proud of my boys kasi pareho silang lumaki ng maayos at never kaming binigyan ng problema. Si Luis, successful sa showbiz career niya ngayon as actor and host. May iba siyang businesses. Si Ryan naman is doing well in school. Pareho siyang attracted sa showbiz and politics at bahala na siyang magdesisyon later on pag tapos na siya ng college.”
May regrets ba siya sa buhay niya?
“Kung meron man, siguro yung di ako nakatapos ng college. Pero bumawi ako roon through self-study. And also, I have a good teacher sa husband ko, si Sen. Ralph Recto. He really guided me well hindi lang tungkol sa politics kundi life in general pati na yung how to speak in public.”
Paano siya nagre-relax?
“The best talaga sa’kin ang travelling with my family. Nalibot na namin ang iba’t ibang Asian countries pati U.S. and Europe, nakapunta na kami. It’s the best way to recharge and for family bonding. After a hard day’s work naman, I watch TV, syempre, para updated tayo, and also soaps or movies. To keep myself fit, I exercise everyday by dancing, like Zumba, gusto ko yung tumatagaktak ang pawis ko. Tapos shower, tulog. Dati, insomniac ako, pero mula noong I kept regular office hours as mayor and now, as governor, naging regular na ang tulog ko.”
May balak ba siya to resort to cosmetic surgery para mapanatili ang youthful looks niya?
“Sa ngayon, wala. Ayoko noong ooperahan ako o gagalawin ang mukha ko. Pero kung kailangan na talaga, why not? But as of now, hindi ko pa napi-feel na kailangan ko. Wala namang ila-lipo sa’kin, eh. The best way to look beautiful is to have peace of mind. May nagsa-suggest nga ng stem cell therapy. Uso raw kasi. Ginawa na nina Manay Lolit Solis, Lorna Tolentino, and others. Sabi ko, I will observe them muna. Takot ako sa side effects eh. Pag wala talaga, I might try it. Pero ako, I’m not afraid of growing old. We can grow old gracefully naman.We cannot look young forever naman. Ayoko lang noong Alzheimer’s, gaya ng nangyayari sa mama ko ngayon. May times kilala kami, may times na hindi. That’s sad. Ayoko ng ganun.”
May mahihiling pa ba siya sa buhay niya?
“Materially, wala na. God has been so good to me all my life. Wala akong mairereklamo. Ngayon nga, tuloy-tuloy pati endorsements ko. But I do pray na my family and I will always have good health. Mahirap yung may nagkakasakit. And I also pray na sana patuloy niya kong i-guide para mas mapaglingkuran ko pa ang mga taga-Batangas. And yes, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ako sa showbiz. Kung pwede lang, on to another 50 years.” – Mario E. Bautista, Philippine Digest (READ MORE)
Meeting Vilma Santos, the Star for All Seasons and Reasons, at the Philippine Fiesta on August 21, 2005 was truly a moment of blessing for me. I have been an avid fan of hers since Grammar School. I never thought in my wildest dream that I would meet her face to face here in New Jersey. Meeting her, I found out that she was really a down-to-earth person. She never acted like a diva or the famous movie star and successful Mayor that she is in the Philippines. I admire her more for this. I guess this is the reason why today more and more people continue to admire her. This only means that we, Vilmanians, continue to grow in number. With hundred of movies under her belt, a collection of numerous awards, both locally and internationally, a three-term Mayor of Lipa City, Vilma is the epitome of success. She is success personified. Throughout her years in movies and politics, she has amassed so many blessings in life. When I met her last August 21st, she showed me the traditional respect that we Filipinos give to our elders and those in position of leadership in our community by making the “mano” gesture to me. I admire her more for this because it was a sign of her humility and grace. The greatest actress the Philippine Cinema has ever produced making “mano” to an unknown priest in New Jersey was truly a humble experience not only for her but for me as well. At that moment, I see in Vilma someone who is humble, approachable and sincerely acknowledges the blessings God has bestowed on her. August 21, 2005 will always be a very special day for me. I will always remember it as a blessing from God. My dear Vilmanians, this issue of our newsletter is dedicated to the day that our Queenstar was born. We rejoice with her. We are united in praising God for her gifts of time, talent and even treasure. We are grateful to God for her good health and the many blessings she continues to receive. We thank Vilma for serving the people of Lipa City and for the joy she gives to us Vilmanians. As we reflect on her birthday, I invite you to take some time to reflect on the blessings that you also have received in life. I for one consider it a blessing to be a member of the e-groups dedidedicated to the Gawad Plaridel Awardee for Film. As a member of these e-groups, I not only get the latest news about her but I also have found friends in all of you. Though we live in the different corners of the world, it gives me so much joy to know more about Ate Vi and about you. Good health, surounded by loving family and friends and being a Vilmanian, are blessings from God. As I reflect on these things, they give me great satisfaction and happiness. Whether you are aware or unaware of them, I am so sure that you too have so much blessings in life. So my dear Vilmanians, take some time to count your blessings and reflect on them. Thank God for them. If it would help, take a piece of paper and list down the things you consider as blessings from our Father in heaven. Once you have done that, then you will agree with me that we, like Ate Vi, are truly blessed by God. Sincerely yours, Father Juancho Gutierrez (READ MORE)
If you’re in seeking advice, e-mail Father J: jgdl1862@yahoo.com
August 20th and 21st are two special dates for the VILMANIANS living in the United States especially those among us who live in the East Coast. On those dates, the QUEEN for All Seasons and Reasons, Ms. VILMA SANTOS, will be in New Jersey as a special guest of the annual Filipino Fiesta Celebration held in the Meadowlands. I am sure that all the Vilmanians in the United States and those in the eastern part of Canada are excited and happily anticipating the arrival of Ate Vi. We are filled with happiness because it is not often that we get to see her. Certainly, her visit would bring great joy to us, Filipinos, especially to the Vilmanians. There is no doubt that Vilma Santos is very much around and still on top of her career even after so many decades as a movie star Vilmanians continue to admire and love her not only as an actress but as person as well. I am sure that her visit would surely bring joy and happiness to the Filipinos of the eastern seaboard. I am sure that she will have a great time with the welcome that she is going to receive from us, her kababayans. At the same time, I am sure that we would have a great time being around her. Her visit may only be publicized in the Filipino newspapers here and be seen in the Filipino Channel, unlike the Holy Father’s visit who gets full attention from all major publications and news channels, yet we should be grateful because Ate Vi, the longest reigning Queen of the Philippine Movies, is coming primarily for us, her kababayans. Anyway, as I have said, her visit is surely going to bring joy to all of us who will be at the Meadowlands with her on August 20th and 21st. Allow me conclude this article with a short reflection on the idea of making a visit as we await the visit of Ate Vi to Tri-State area. It is summer season once again here in the United States and Canada. It is the time to visit our loved ones, relatives and friends who are far from us. For many of us in the United States and Canada, it is a time to go home to the Philippines to see our families and friends. When we do this, it is always a moment of joy and happiness. We, like Ate Vi, brings excitement and joy to our families and friends in the Philippines. I am sure you see this, the moment you step out of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport as we see our loved ones running towards us to greet us with a kiss, a hug or a “mano po” gesture. It is through this that we feel the joy as they welcome us home. This is one of the things that we, Filipinos, can be proud of and should be commended. No matter how long we have been away from our families and friends, whenever we go home, we get a sincere and warm welcome. Naturally, this moves us to feel the joy that they feel seeing us even for just a short period of time or no matter how long we spend time with them. So I encourage you, my dear Vilmanians, to follow Ate Vi’s example, no matter where we are going this summer, that we may always bring joy and happiness to those people we see and meet, whether it be our loved ones, friends or even strangers. Remember Jesus said: “Whoever welcome me, welcomes the One who sent me.” – Sincerely yours, Father J (READ MORE)
(Despite the threat of tropical storm Irene, The 7th. Annual New Jersey, U.S.A. Pinoy Fiesta was a box office hit!)
A week before the 7th. Annual Philippine Fiesta in America was held in New Jersey (August 20 to 21, 2005), featuring Lipa Mayor Vilma Santos-Recto as special guest, tropical storm Irene was spotted in the Atlantic Ocean and was predicted to become a hurricane that will hit the East coast. Record increase in the price of oil and gasoline are looming in the horizon. The weather was hot, hazy and humid and if it persisted, there will be evening thunderstorms. Either of the above would surely affect the attendance of what is considered the biggest annual reunion of Filipino-Americans in the East coast. Miracle of miracles, Irene veered into the ocean, and the weather was in the mid to upper 80s, just perfect. God must have smiled at Mayor-Actress Vilma, the Glad girl. Like a homing pigeon, the Honorable Mayor and the Philippines’ most awarded actress must spread joy to her fans in the East coast. Together with her husband Senator Ralph Recto, they conquered the hearts, minds and spirit of their assimilated, albeit homesick kababayans by gracing the annual Fiesta of trade exhibitors, international and local entertainers and cultural and food festival.
Like Vilma’s movies, the weekend extravaganza was a box-office hit. As per Alan Trambulo, NY President of VISION (Vilma Santos International Online Network), Pinoy Fiesta producers Nanding and Mila Mendez were more than pleased with the overall results of the 2005 Fiesta. “This is perhaps one of the best, even better than last year,” they chorused. We were so happy and honored by Vilma’s presence. She is very professional, madaling kausapin, and very concerned about the outcome of the Fiesta. Right after the doors closed last Sunday, she asked us if she did alright and if the affair was a success,” they continued. “That is genuine personal touch and concern,” the duo gushed. Imagine, a big star like Vilma, very concerned about how we did, wow, that was special. No wonder she is a respected and beloved three-term mayor. She truly deserves the awards and blessings that come her way. We would invite her again, they concluded. A non-singer but blessed with a charismatic pesonality, all Vilma had to do is to be seen by the huge crowds, talk and wave to them as she began to weave magic. Vilmania is very much alive and kicking.
EVERYBODY LOVES VILMA! The multi-awarded Mayor and Actress and her Senator husband, fresh from arriving at the JFK Airport Friday, August 19, jet lag and all, were honored at the welcome reception gala party thrown in by the Batanguenos of the East Coast, in cooperation with the Philippine Fiesta USA, Inc. at the Newark-Sheraton. The party was to also showcase the talents, ala American Idol of the 2005 Miss Philippine Fiesta USA Beauty Pageant Finalists. The hall was packed with people, Batanguenos, Lipenos and of course the Vilmanians. As soon as the famous couples names were announced (the Honorable Mayor of Lipa and the Philippine Senator), there was standing ovation. The world stopped, ahhs and oohhs were heard as two souls waved to the crowd, smiles and all. They sat at the presidential table where the Jersey City Mayor Healy and other dignitaries were seated. After small talks and talent presentation by the beauty contest finalists, this event followed: “Presentation of Key to Jersey City to the Honorable Mayor Vilma Santos-Recto by the Honorable Mayor Jerramiah Healy.”
The Lipa mayor literally was given a key – symbol of respect and admiration for a beloved and most awarded Philippine mayor. Unprecedented. History in the making. The Filipinos couldn’t be more proud. Hail to the Queen! Then, after the Inspirational remark by Honorable Cecilia Rebong, Consul General, Philippine Consulate, New York who spoke highly of the guest couple’s outstanding achievements, Mayor Vi and Senator Ralph took turns to speak to the crowd. Says Mayor Vi: “Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be a public servant. All my life I’ve been an actress. I was visible because my husband is a politician. He challenged me to run as Mayor. I was hesitant, tentative and nervous. I asked God to give me a sign, like something white before I say yes to the challenge. One day, fresh white daisies for the altar were delivered by my florists that I did not ask for. That was it. Then Ralph laid the cards on the table as to what being a public servant would entail. To learn more about public service, I enrolled at the U.P. crash course on pubic administration. Three mayoral terms later, I concluded that without Gods help and the unity and cooperation of the people and my cabinet, Lipa wouldn’t be what it is today I only have two years left to serve and my options are open. The crowd, in standing ovation, chorused: “governor, governor!” The Mayor just smiled her sweet smile and exclaimed: Mabuhay ang mga Lipenos, mabuhay ang Pilipino, mabuhay ang Pilipinas!”
MORE DEAFENIING APPLAUSE…MOVE OVER, SISTER STELLA L…Then Senator Ralph spoke and concurred that his wife was nervous at first but as he guided her along the way, he was more than surprised. She learned fast. She seized the opportunity, rolled up her sleeves and just did her homework, with flying colors. He mentioned his achievements as Philippine Senator, and vowed to make a difference in Philippine politics.
APPLAUSE. Autograph signing and photo ops with the famous couple capped the night. The whole world went gaga over Vilma and Ralph. Is this a good omen of things to come? Like that Palace in Manila? Just asking! Fast forward to August 20, Saturday. At around noon, the QueenStar, along with invited dignitaries, cut the ribbon and waved and said hello to her overjoyed audience. She was onstage. She vowed to come back in the evening with Senator Ralph. The musical numbers followed. Some bands played rock and roll. Aiza Seguerra wowed the crowds with her voice and guitar. She brought the house down when she sang her signature song, “Pagdating ng Panahon.” Then, it was a laugh riot session with Nannette Inventor, Jon Santos and Leo Martinez with their satire/spoof called Kiliti-kal Condition. They traded barbs, spoofed politicians and celebrities through seriocomic skit/songs, really a no holds barred session. If Mitch Valdez was in the cast, people would be asking for Maalox or Pepcid. It was Humorous, Inc., “kabag” included.
Meawhile, at the VISION booth, the Vilma faithful began to form a queue – waiting for their idol to pop in and memorialize her precious autograph on memorabilia, from her 23-song CD album, to VISION tee shirts, magazine, blown-up photos and what have you. In their red VISION tee shirts, Alan, Jojo, Franco, Eric C., Mario and others were on red alert should pandemonium follow Vilmas live signing session in the booth area. The booth merchandise had good business (financial donations by the Vilmanians), proceeds of which were intended to help the needy and poor Vilmanians in the Philippines.- It is a virtual Vilma Santos retrospective: tee- shirts, mags, photos – made possible by Philippine VISIONaries Jojo Lim, Eric Nadurata and Co. Vilmanians from all over the U.S., young and old, professionals, ordinary people, weird or straight were vacillating whether to stay in line or troop to the stage area where Vilma may be next performer. The crowd was split. They mused. Hmmm She won’t sing definitely, but will she dance? Will she give a political speech? What will she wear? What will she say to the growing yet patient crowd? How does she look like in person? Is she still pretty? Does she still have that famous Vilma smile and karinyosa ways? Will she don a Darna costume or do a Sister Stella L. act? Anxious, Unlimited. I need my Xanax, please! It is half past eight? Do you know where Vilma Santos is? Was that her on stage wearing a terno ala Mayor Vi, complete with the Vilma hairdo with a flower and a hankie? Nope. That was impersonator par excellence Jon Santos.
And then the moment of truth: Vilma and Ralph on stage, live! It was Vilma! all over again. “Bumabati po kami sa inyong lahat ng magandang gabi.” “OK,” she said, while holding a bouquet of yellow roses, while Ralph was smiling beside her. “Magtanungan portion po tayo.” Fans’ queries ranged from common to the sublime. Vilma: “My two sons are OK. Luis just finished college. He is wise with his money. He saves for the future. My youngest son Ryan is now eight years old. He loves acting…I have two more years to go for my third and last term for Mayor. I don’t have a political agenda at the moment. I did it through the help of God, constituents’ trust and cooperation. I am so blessed. Movies? I will just do one movie a year as time and my Lipenos will allow me.” Ralph: “Me for President? Maybe I’ll win if I was Christopher De Leon. No, seriously, our country needs your prayers and support. To run for President needs a lot of planning and consideration.” VST and Co.’s disco number, Awitin Mo at Isasayaw Ko was playing and the couple gamely danced the swing. Vilma waxed nostalgia of the glorious Vilma/VIP Dancers heydays. They had the audience at the palms of their hands. Are they the future President and First Lady? Just asking. Then the 2005 Fiesta celebrity guests (Vilma, Aiza, Nannette, Jon and Leo) all went to the stage to sing Bayan Ko. The audience joined in. Patriotism, Pinoy style, anyone? It is time to connect with an enthused crowd. VTR’s and cameras in all shapes and sizes were capturing the moment. Handshakes with the fans. Security guards did their job well. They held the King and the Queen tight, like protective secret agents. Pray, tell me, are they the future President and First Lady? The lights went off onstage but the crowd was just getting to love Vilma more. Handshakes all over the place. Tears of joy flowed. Ate Vi! We love you! The security guards moved in to get Vilma.
The crowd went wild over the Queen as a human chain of guards and Vilmanians Franco, Jojo and others led her from the stage to the signing booth. She first hugged the Vilmanians who are now in their golden years. Vilma, misty-eyed, recognized them all. Sitting on a chair, with a table in front of her, she was the virtual Movie Queen -uncomplaining, always smiling, always cool, calm and collected. Ate Vi, now sweating, signed anything brought to her by the fans a shirt, CD, DVD, magazine, in rapid succession. She was kissed, hugged, praised, and ogled at. She is still it – the most beloved Actress of the Philippines. Incredible! But wait, the crowd was getting into Ate Vi’s private space. Anything could happen. The Mayor/Actress’ life could be in danger. Her family, fans, country, and the world need her. Guards were quick to whisk her away from the madding crowd. And there she was, the Glad girl, with a smile on her face, still being kissed and hugged by the people till she disappeared from the crowd. As the late Nick Joaquin quoted: she chose to be happy. Awards, a loving family, an honorable public office position with big responsibility and accountability, respect/love from the fans, longevity in the business, movie offers ad infinitum – these are but bonuses. She has everything. Happiness, Inc. It’s contagious. Vilma Santos Rules! – Mario O. Garces (READ MORE)
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.
Star For All Seasons 
You must be logged in to post a comment.