Noted comics novelist Pablo S. Gomez dies of heart attack – By Annie S. Alejo, Manila Bulletin, December 28, 2010 – TV viewers know Gomez’ work like “Kampanerang Kuba,” an ABS-CBN soap starring Anne Curtis, inspired by the 1973 film of the same title, which starred Vilma Santos and Edgar Mortiz. Currently running on the same network is the afternoon drama-comedy series “Juanita Banana,” starring Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Bianca Manalo—also originally adapted into a movie in 1968 starring Rosemarie Sonora. READ MORE

Vilma guests in Balik-Bayan – The Philippine Star, December 29, 2010 – The holidays of the viewers will surely brighten up as the Star for all Seasons and now Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto (photo) guests in the two-part special of Star Awards Best Travel Show — Q-11’s Balik-Bayan. READ MORE

MMFF Best Actress Winners from 1975 to 2010 – Starmometer, December 28, 2010 – Second to Nora Aunor is the star for all seasons Vilma Santos with 4 wins (1977, 1981, 1989, 2004) and tied in third place with 3 wins each are Amy Austria (1980, 1988, 1996) and Maricel Soriano (1997, 2003, 2007). READ MORE

A look at the past MMFF controversies – ABS-CBN News, December 28, 2010 – It’s only the year, the faces and the names of participants to the annual Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) that change, but the essence and politics of the event remain the same. Controversies and issues have been rocking the MMFF, year in and year out. It’s the struggle to perfection that makes the difference. READ MORE

Dolphy, Vilma honored by Children’s TV and DepEd – Malaya, December 27, 2010 – The National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT) and the Department of Education (DepEd) will honor two of the most celebrated icons of Philippine television – Dolphy Quizon and Vilma Santos Recto, with a Lifetime Achievement Award in the 1st Lingkod TV Awards tomorrow, Dec. 28 at the Rajah Sulayman Theater, Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila. READ MORE

Stellar lessons in kindness and humility – By Rito Asilo, Philippine Daily Inquirer, December 24, 2010 – There’s a good reason why Vilma Santos is successful at everything she does. The legendary actress is as sincere as she is lovely—and she hasn’t allowed success to go to her head. Barely half a day after we asked for an interview with the busy actress-politician, we were surprised to get a call from an unlisted number, and the cheerful voice at the other end of the line claimed that she was—Ate Vi! READ MORE

Sen. Recto to savor Ate Vi’s ‘cooking’ – By Hannah L. Torregoza, Manila Bulletin, December 20, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Between politics and show business, there may be no other enduring love story that brings both worlds together than Ralph and Vi. Their very public lives have come together with such impact that their politics and their art have merged into one world, copied and recopied by celebrity couple after another from mega-couple Francis and Sharon to sweetie Chiz and Christine. READ MORE

Vilma and Dolphy to get Lingkod TV awards – By Boy Villasanta, abs-cbnNEWS.com, December 18, 2010 – Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos and Comedy King Dolphy will be presented Life Achievement Awards at the 1st Lingkod TV Awards scheduled on December 28, 2010 at the Rajah Sulayman Theater at Fort Santiago in Intramuros, Manila. The two veteran actors will be honored for their invaluable contribution in uplifting TV shows that are for the advancement of the interest of children. Santos’s and Dolphy’s TV programs have benefited thousands of Filipino youth. READ MORE

Vilma, Nora and the two faces of show business – By Nestor Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer, December 03, 2010 – When we were writing film scripts decades ago, one of the movie companies that kept us particularly busy was Atty. Esperidion Laxa’s Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Productions. We did one screenplay after another for him and directors like Romy Suzara, Ishmael Bernal and Maning Borlaz—and many of them turned out to be for movies starring then teen sensation, Vilma Santos, who was one of TIIP’s hottest “properties.” READ MORE

Vilma Santos talks about possible movie projects with Nora, Sharon – By Rowena Joy A. Sanchez, Manila Bulletin, December 02, 2010 – Vilma Santos is willing to make a movie with her biggest showbiz “rival” Nora Aunor, who is set to return to the Philippines within the month. “Wala naman sigurong masama [kung gumawa kami ni Nora ng pelikula] pero siguro ang importante ang script,” said the veteran actress-turned-public servant in an interview aired on “Juicy,” Dec. 1. READ MORE

Gov. Vi remains fond of Angel – By Ethel Ramos, Malaya, December 01, 2010 – BATANGAS Governor Vilma Santos was happy to learn that one of the finalists in “Sharon’s Search for the Next Pop Superstar,” a reality show on ABS-CBN, is from Lipa. READ MORE

The sensation – By Ed Sicam, November 30, 2010 – “D’Sensations D’ Sensations This is where the action is So c’mon and join the fun.” This was the song that kept ringing in my ears as I watched Governor Vilma Santos enter the function room of Annabel’s last Friday. As every dedicated Vilmanian like my friend Rey Manalo and anyone who was around in the 1970s know, this was Vi’s theme song on her variety show “D’Sensations” aired on ABS-CBN. That was a turbulent decade for the country and for Vilma, who was just in her teens when she did the show. READ MORE

Gov. Vi willing to help Ate Guy but in secret – By Mario Bautista, Malaya, November 30, 2010 – GOV. Vilma Santos hosted lunch at Chef Jessie’s Enchante Resto at Oakwood Ortigas on Thanksgiving Day and she led the prayer giving thanks to the Lord for all the blessings we have all received during the year. We then lifted her up to God for her to be able to discern what she’ll do next after being Batangas governor since a lot of people are requesting her to run for higher office. READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos comments on Nora’s return, Sharon-Aga feud, and Luis-Angel failed reconciliation – By Erwin Santiago, PEP, November 27, 2010 – Kailan lang nagkabati si Batangas Governor Vilma Santos at ang kaibigan niyang aktor na si Aga Muhlach matapos nang halos dalawang taon nilang “tampuhan.” READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos Wants to Have a TV Show on ABS-CBN – Kapamilyalogy.blogspot.com, November 27, 2010 – Higit sa kanyang pagiging isang public servant, unang nakilala ang isang Vilma Santos bilang isang artista. Nagsimula bilang isang child star sa pamamagitan ng Trudis Liit noong 1963, halos limang dekada nang nasa mundo ng showbiz ang Star for All Seasons. At hanggang ngayon, kahit nasa mundo na siya ng pulitika, hindi pa rin siya nawawalan ng movie offers. READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos has many movie offers, but Batangas remains her priority – By Erwin Santiago, PEP, November 26, 2010 – Napuno ng press at Vilmanians ang second floor ng Annabel’s restaurant sa Tomas Morato, Quezon City, kaninang tanghali, November 26, dahil sa ipinatawag na get-together, thanksgiving, pre-Christmas party ni Batangas Governor Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Vi: Matagal din kaming may tampuhan ni Aga – By Ricardo F. Lo, The Philippine Star, November 26, 2010 – Over lunch yesterday with the first batch of movie writers she’s treating to a thanksgiving salu-salo (the second, bigger, batch’s turn is at noon today at a Tomas Morato restaurant), Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos admitted that, like Sharon Cuneta, she also had a long-drawn “cold war” with Aga Muhlach (whom she fondly calls Agaton) for reasons that she didn’t reveal anymore. READ MORE

Nestlé breaks ground for P4B Batangas factory – Malaya, November 24, 2010 – Nestlé Philippines Inc. yesterday broke ground for a new P4.3 billion factory in Tanauan, Batangas, that will produce Coffee Mate non-dairy creamer and Bear Brand powdered milk drink. READ MORE

Vilma Santos-Recto to deliver keynote address in tomorrow’s 5th OTOP Luzon Island Fair opening – PIA.gov.ph, November 17, 2010, Batangas City – Batangas governor and actress Vilma Santos-Recto will serve as the keynote speaker in the opening of the 5th OTOP (One Town, One Product) Luzon Island Fair tomorrow (November 18) in Megatrade halls 1 and 2 of SM Megamall. Aside from the Star for All Seasons, Department of Trade & Industry secretary Gregory Domingo and some of the governors and mayors from the participating provinces and cities are also expected to grace the event. READ MORE

Batangas launches program to promote tourism, trade and industry – PIA.gov.ph, November 16, 2010, By Charlie S. Dajao – Batangas City (November 16) — The Provincial Government of Batangas launched on November 8 the slogan “Batangas: It’s all here, it’s so near” for its provincial tourism program, in time of the province’s 429th foundation year to promote tourism, business and investments, its distinct products, and human resources. READ MORE

Vilma Santos celebrates 57th birthday with constituents and fans – PEP.ph, November 07, 2010, By Rommel Gonzales – Ang inakalang pamisa lang organized by her constituents and fans in celebration of her 57th birthday last Wednesday, November 3, turned out to be a grand event for Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto. “I truly, truly appreciate it! Fifty-seven years, I’ve been very, very blessed,” ang masayang bungad na pahayag ni Governor Vilma sa taped interview sa kanya kahapon ng StarTalk TX sa GMA-7. READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos on Luis Manzano and Angel Locsin breakup: ‘Ang importante maiwan lang ang respeto sa isa’t-isa’ – Push.com.ph, November 06, 2010, By Fionna Acaba – After publicly sharing how she likes Angel Locsin as a girlfriend for her son Luis Manzano, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos admitted that she feels sad about Luis and Angel’s decision to no longer try a reconciliation. “In a way, yes, kasi alam ko din naman yung naging samahan nilang dalawa kahit papaano alam kong nagmahalan yung dalawa—si Angel at si Luis—pero if it is not meant, it is not meant, you know. Baka hindi talaga pwede pero later on… We don’t know, e.” READ MORE

Vilma Santos offered 3 movie projects – abs-cbnNEWS.com, November 04, 2010, By Boy Villasanta – BATANGAS CITY, Batangas—A new movie project knocked anew at Vilma Santos’ door right on her birthday party at the provincial capitol of this city Wednesday afternoon. Internationally acclaimed filmmaker Adolf Alix, Jr. went straight to Santos to offer her a script sealed in an envelope.   READ MORE

Batangas first before movie projects — Vilma Santos – gmanews.tv, November 04, 2010 – Bakas sa mukha ng Star for All Season ang kasiyahan sa surprised birthday celebration na inihanda sa kanya ng mga tauhan sa kapitolyo ng Batangas nitong Miyerkules. Bukod kasi sa kanyang mga constituents sa lalawigan, hindi rin nawala ang mga Vilmanians para bumati sa kanya sa kanyang kaarawan. READ MORE

Ate Vi reacts on Luis-Angel break up – abs-cbnNEWS.com, November 03, 2010, MANILA, Philippines- Batangas Gov. and “Star For All Seasons” Vilma Santos reacted on his son Luis and actress Angel Locsin’s decisions to move in different directions on Wednesday. In an interview with Showbiz News Ngayon, Santos, who has publicly supported the Luis-Angel off-screen relationship, expressed her sadness over the couple’s “separation of ways.” READ MORE

‘Ate Vi’ turns 57 – abs-cbnNEWS.com, November 03, 2010, MANILA, Philippines- Batangas Gov. and “Star For All Seasons” Vilma Santos is celebrating her 57th birthday today. Born Maria Rosa Vilma Santos, her legendary stardom started as a child wonder portraying “Trudis Liit” in 1963. The movie gave the then 9-year-old star her first Famas award as Best Child Performer. From then on, Santos’s star continues to shine. READ MORE

Pinakamagaling na aktres sa lahat ng panahon – SHOWBIZ WATCHER by Ogie Cruz, Asian Journal USA, October 31, 2010, Nalalapit na naman ang birthday ng pinakamagaling na aktres sa lahat ng panahon na si Vilma Santos sa November 3, kaya minabuti namin na maging topic namin siya sa aming column sa linggong ito. READ MORE

57 VIPs in Vi’s Life – October 31, 2010, CONVERSATIONS With Ricky Lo, Philippine Star – Fifty-seven looking Sweet Sixteen (to borrow the title of her hit song way back when she was, uhm, fresh as a daisy and thought that she could sing. Well, she could carry a tune but she eventually turned out to be not a singer but a great actress who has dozens of awards that have left no more space to display in. Name it, she has won it. READ MORE

Batangas governor campaigns ‘clean-up Fridays – October 30, 2010 – Manila Bulletin, Ferdinand Castro – Governor Vilma Santos Recto is rallying her constituents in the entire province to support and sustain a weekly province-wide clean up drive to improve health and sanitation, the environment, and traffic flow and reduce disaster risks. READ MORE

How stars reinvent themselves– STAR BYTES By Butch Francisco, Philstar.com, October 12, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Everyone wants to reach the top. That’s not so easy to do in showbiz (or anywhere else for that matter). Harder still is keeping your name up there. Once you get to the peak, you never want to come down. Since there’s no such thing as forever, most people in entertainment look for alternative ways to keep their name ablaze by reinventing themselves. Even movie queens actually, especially movie queens try to hang on to their positions and most of them do succeed. Last Tuesday, I already traced how Carmen Rosales, Nida Blanca and Gloria Romero maintained their queenly status. Here’s what the rest of them did.  READ MORE

‘ALAY LAKAD’ NETS SCHOLARSHIP FUND – MB.com.ph, October 9, 3020 – Some 7,000 participants joined the walk for a cause under the successful 2010 edition of the Batangas Provincial Government’s Alay Lakad, which concluded at the Capitol grounds from three kick-off points, which netted around P2 million for the province’s scholarship fund. Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos Recto led the annual march escorted by matinee idol Diether Ocampo, who personally advocates community service through his pro-children K.I.D.S. Foundation, and Roberto Huang, president of San Miguel Brewery, Inc., which donated P1 million to the educational aid organization.  READ MORE

Gov. Vilma Santos Opens Her Home to ‘Us Girls’ – Starmometer, September 23, 2010 – Find out what’s keeping Star for All Seasons, Vilma Santos busy these days as “Us Girls” visits her home in Batangas this Sunday (Sep 26). READ MORE

Be Beautiful, be Ageless – By Heizel Laruan Mainar, Manila Bulletin, September 21, 2010 – Eskinol’s visibility in the market for 65 years makes it a formidable brand. And as Sara Lee’s marketing manager Joanne Co explains, Eskinol’s Ageless line will continue the brand’s heritage to be a household name, just like the time when the Star-for-all-Seasons Vilma Santos, now Batangas Governor, graced the boobtube with her countless Eskinol endorsements. So, by choosing an anti-aging cream that works, any mother and daughter will have youthful skin without breaking the budget. READ MORE

Jueteng still rampant in Batangas – By Arnell Ozaeta, ABS-CBN News, Sep 20, 2010 – Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, however, denied the report and insisted that her administration is against any form of gambling including jueteng. READ MORE

Bright spots on the entertainment scene – By Nestor Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Aug 29, 2010 – THE best show biz news this month is Sharon Cuneta’s decision to finally lose weight to get back into “fighting” trim, after several years of allowing herself to slide into “ample” mode. Sharon says she’s already lost more than 17 pounds—a testament to her determination and will power.   READ MORE

An evening with Vilma THEN & NOW – By Norma Japitana, The Philippine Star, Aug 27, 2010 – THEN: January 7, 1990 — 20 years ago. Vilma Santos is content, beautiful and full of cheer. That was the impression she gave us the evening we went out to celebrate her winning as Best Actress for her performance in Immortal. The party was an impromptu affair led by Vic del Rosario of Viva who wants to give his Best Actress time to unwind and talk with friends after a suspenseful week of waiting for the awards night.   READ MORE

Boyet: 53 lessons in life – FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo, The Philippine Star, Aug 27, 2010 – In his 35 years as an actor, Christopher “Boyet” de Leon has portrayed every character in the book, from good guys (as he always does) to bad guys (as he sometimes does). In Sa’yo Lamang, the 17th-anniversary offering of Star Cinema directed by Laurice Guillen and opening nationwide on Wednesday, Sept. 1, Boyet is reunited with Lorna Tolentino in a family drama reminiscent of the 2000 award-winning film Tanging Yaman also directed by Guillen that swept the awards and finished the top-grosser of that year’s Metro Filmfest.   READ MORE

Gov. Vi: You won’t like me when I’m angry – By Remy Umerez, August 26 2010 – HOW much do you know about Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos Recto? During the Lipa branch inauguration of Philippine Veterans Bank where she was guest of honor, we discovered her love and devotion to her constituents and how eloquent Vilma has become as a public speaker. She also remains sincere, appreciative and so approachable. READ MORE

Vilma Santos supports protection of marine biodiversity areas – By Abigail Kwok INQUIRER.net, Aug. 19, 2010 – Local government officials led by Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto have pledged their support for the protection of marine biodiversity conservation sites in the country. READ MORE

“Noranians” asked Gov. Vilma Santos to suspend fishing zoning ordinance – By Gerry Albert Corpuz, Aug. 16, 2010 AllVoices.com – Claiming the municipal fishing ordinances implemented have limited fishing activities in the first district and other coastal towns of the province, a loose alliance of small fishermen known as Network Opposed to Fishing Ordinance and Regressive Taxations (Noranians) had asked Batangas Gov. Vilma SantosVilma Santos to immediately and indefinitely suspend the implementation of these ordinances. READ MORE

The Things That Matter to John Lloyd Cruz -By Vic Sevilla, – Businessmirror.com.ph, Aug. 12, 2010 – IF John Lloyd Cruz is beaming these days, it’s only because the shower of good luck falling on his side of the fence doesn’t appear to be letting up. Just days ago, Judge Alfredo Ampuan of the Quezon City Metropolitan Trial Court junked the tax case filed against him by the Bureau of Internal Revenue “due to technicalities and lack of probable cause,” as the ruling stated. READ MORE

Edu to host game show on GMA – By Mario Bautista, Malaya, August 12, 2010 – EVER since we wrote that independent films maven Atty. Joji Alonso wants to get Vilma Santos for an indie film meant to be shown in filmfest abroad, Ate Vi’s fans have been asking for the latest development about it. They’re excited for their idol as it might win her best actress awards in international film festivals, like what Atty. Joji did for Gina Pareno in “Kubrador.”  READ MORE

Jon says thank you to his mentors – By Leah C. Salterio, The Philippine Star, August 12, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – When one talks about comedians in the local entertainment scene — from comedy king Dolphy and the versatile Joey de Leon to newcomers like Vice Ganda, Pokwang or Eugene Domingo — the name of Jon Santos inevitably crops up.   READ MORE

Top 10 Most Wicked Pinay Contrabidas –    By Pietro Santos, August 3, 2010 – By Remy M. Umerez Philippine Daily Inquirer July 30, 2010 – Filipinas might be known for their refined and timid ways, but some of them can definitely bring out their bad sides when the need arises. Local soap operas and movies are more fun to watch with wicked female villains who’ll slap, splash some red wine, or throw some acid on someone’s face. SPOT.ph lists 10 of the most memorable Pinay contrabidas whom we all just love to hate–from the divas who’ve been at it for decades to the younger baddies who are just getting their contrabida groove on.  READ MORE

Vilma Santos has so much to be thankful for  – By Remy M. Umerez Philippine Daily Inquirer July 30, 2010 – VILMA SANTOS-RECTO was the guest of honor at the inauguration of the Philippine Veterans Bank branch at SmB bldg., JP Laurel highway, Lipa City. After delivering a speech, she chatted with us.  READ MORE

Gov. Vi calls for action on Batangas coal spill – By Ferdinand F. Castro Manila Bulletin July 30, 2010 – Governor Vilma Santos Recto appealed Friday to concerned parties to take swift action in avoiding an environmental disaster in the coast of Nasugbu where an Indonesia-registered barge spilled coal two weeks ago. READ MORE

Gov. Vilma graces Philippine Veterans Bank opening – The Philippine Star July 30, 2010 – The inauguration of Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB) Lipa City branch was graced by Batangas Governor Vilma Santos who also led the ribbon-cutting ceremony with PVB president and CEO Ricardo Balbido Jr. READ MORE

The ‘Star for All Seasons’ is now a true-blue politician – By Mario Bautista Malaya July 26, 2010 – WE can’t help but feel proud of our Ate Vi when she was called to deliver a speech as the guest speaker at the inauguration of the new Philippine Veterans Bank branch at SMB Bldg, JP Laurel Highway in Lipa City. Vilma Santos is definitely now not just the “Star for All Seasons” but a true-blue seasoned politician. Her speech was spontaneous but she delivered every word she said with sincerity and aplomb. No wonder the Batanguenos love her so much, and you can see this with the respect and admiration they accord her. READ MORE

Gov. Vi excited to go indie – By Crispina Mattinez-Belen Manila Bulletin July 25, 2010 – We had the chance to interview Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto last Wednesday during the formal inauguration of Philippine Veterans Bank’s Lipa City Branch. VP for Communications Mike Villa-Real brought us to Lipa City for this special occasion in which Gov. Vi, who was mayor of the city for three terms, was the special guest. READ MORE

Gov. Vi’s star power – PilipinasTV.com July 24, 2010 – HAD Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto ran for Vice President she would have won in a landslide and no one would have protested. We witnessed the love and respect the Lipaeños showered the Star For All Seasons (and Generations) at the inauguration of the Philippine Veterans Bank in Lipa . At one point, she chose to walk on the street to shake the hands of her kababayans who supported her and her husband Ralph in the last elections despite the drizzle. READ MORE

Gov. Vi tempted to do serious film eyeing int’l market – By Nestor Cuartero Manila Bulletin July 24, 2010 – GOV. VI: Batangas’ first woman governor may have said earlier that she’ll keep off acting for sometime to focus on her governance work, but it looks like she’s ready to be seduced by a good offer any old time.  READ MORE

The story behind the storytellers – By Ronald Lim, Manila Bulletin, July 23, 2010 – Ask any ordinary Filipino moviegoer who Nora Aunor or Vilma Santos is, and they are bound to at least have an idea who these people are. But any mention of directors outside of Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, or those who helm today’s “kilig” films would probably result in a confused stare. READ MORE

Regal kicks off 50th anniversary celebration – By Jocelyn Dimaculangan PEP July 21, 2010 – When Mother Lily Monteverde faced the members of the press last night, July 20, she reminisced about the humble beginnings of Regal Films five decades ago.  READ MORE

Malnourished Batangueño kids down by 2,430 – Malaya July 20, 2010 – THE provincial government’s 2009 Operation Timbang results for pre-school children showed that the prevalence rate of malnourished Batangueños was lessened by 2,430 kids, or a significant drop from 6.30 percent in 2008 to 5.37 percent last year. READ MORE

Aid for ‘Basyang’ victims – By Ferdinand Castro, Manila Bulletin, July 17, 2010 – In the aftermath of typhoon “Basyang’s” unexpected onslaught, the provincial government, upon the orders of Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, gave financial assistance to the families of victims, who lost their lives during the calamity. READ MORE

Mariel denies fighting with Luis Manzano – abs-cbnNews.com, July 13, 2010 – Actress-host Mariel Rodriguez broke her silence on a report saying Batangas governor and Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos called the attention of her son Luis Manzano for teasing her. The report said the governor asked her son Luis to take it easy when making jokes at Rodriguez especially during live shows. READ MORE

The workbooks that need more work – By Chelo Banal-Formoso Philippine Daily Inquirer July 12, 2010 – Giron said she had also ordered the superintendent to write to DLSL to correct the errors in another set of workbooks, the Project Vi Grades 1 to 3 English workbooks, revised versions of the Project K workbooks that have been distributed to eight municipalities in Batangas under the auspices of Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto. DLSL owns the copyright to both versions.  READ MORE

Cultural media tapped as tool for climate change education – By Rhodina Villanueva The Philippine Star July 08, 2010 – The MOA signing, witnessed by Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto and Quezon City councilor and Climate Change Ambassador Alfred Vargas, was also signed by DepEd Region 4-A director Dr. Paraluman Giron and National Council for Children’s Television director Frank Rivera.READ MORE

Luis says no to love scene with Vice Ganda – By Mario Bautista Malaya July 08, 2010 – “I’m very proud of her and my stepdad (Sen. Ralph Recto) as they really have so many plans to help other people. ‘Yun nga lang, bihira kami magkita as I’m doing two movies right now. Aside from ‘Hating Kapatid,’ I also play the love interest of Vice Ganda in ‘Petrang Kabayo.’ I also have a new daily show, ‘Panahon Ko To’ with Billy Crawford then I’m doing ‘E Live’ pa on Saturday and ‘ASAP’ on Sunday. So wala akong day off and I really work every single day of the week.”  READ MORE

Noel Cabangon says he didn’t have to give P-Noy singing tips – By Bayani San Diego Jr. Philippine Daily Inquirer July 05, 2010 – We’ve been doing that in all our campaign sorties in the past. I think the VIPs had no choice but to stand up because President Noynoy himself took the lead,” Cabangon said. “Sabi nga nila marami raw natamaan sa kanta. (I was told a lot of people got hit by the song’s lyrics). But that’s the whole point of the song, to remind everyone that we all need to be good citizens…that change has to come from within us.” READ MORE

Seven-kilometer painting on canvas – The Manila Times July 02, 2010 – On June 28, the country successfully achieved its target of creating a 7.3-kilometer painting on canvas in its bid to clinch the Guiness Book of Records title as the World’s Longest Painting. Focusing on the single theme of fishes and water, the painting, according to scenographer Rollie de Leon, head of the On the Spot Artists’ Association (OTSAA), which spearheaded the creation of such painting, involved about 6,000 artists since it was started in 2005.  READ MORE

Vilma pamilya pa rin ang prayoridad – Bandera July 01, 2010 – MATAGUMPAY na pamilya. Sa ganu’n lang namin mailalarawan ngayon ang pamilya Recto na siyempre pa’y binubuo nina Senator Ralph Recto, Governor Vilma Santos, Luis Manzano at Ryan Christian. Lahat sila’y matagumpay, wala na nga sigurong mahihiling pa ngayon si Governor Vilma, dahil matatagumpay sila sa kani-kanilang linya. Nakabalik sa kanyang posisyon si Senador Ralph, napanatili naman ni Governor Vilma ang kanyang asim sa mga Batangue?matagumpay na aktor-TV host si Luis at si Ryan naman ay isang matalinong estudyante. READ MORE

Gov. Vilma Santos warns fellow actors, politics is no picnic – By Rey Pumaloy PEP June 30, 2010 – Nanumpa nang muli ang Star for All Seasons na si Vilma Santos bilang gobernador ng lalawigan ng Batangas noong Lunes ng umaga, June 28, sa auditorium ng Batangas Provincial Office. Ito ang ikalawang term ng actress-politician sa naturang posisyon. Nauna rito ay nanungkulan siya bilang mayor ng Lipa City sa loob ng siyam na taon o tatlong terms.  READ MORE

Over half million attend Noynoy inaugural rites, police say – GMA News June 30, 2010 – At 10 a.m. Wednesday, over 500,000 people flocked to the Quirino Grandstand in Manila for the inauguration of President-elect Benigno Aquino III, police said. In an interview with GMANews.TV, National Capital Region Police Office head Director Roberto Rosales said “the area at the grandstand is not yet filled up. Later, the number [of people] might reach 700,000.” READ MORE

Governor Vi swears in Ralph Recto, Christopher De Leon – By Anya Santos Manila Bulletin June 29, 2010 – Two-time Batangas governor, Vilma Santos-Recto, was formally sworn in by Batangas RTC Judge Florencio Arellano on June 28, 2010. With her re-election, Governor Vi extended her gratitude to the people of Batangas for their trust and unwavering support. More than that, the Governor promised to step up her service to her constituents on her second term. READ MORE

Vilma Santos leads oath-taking of LP winners in Batangas – By Jeff Canoy, ABS-CBN News June 28, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines (1st UPDATE) – It was a family affair over at the Batangas Capitol building on Monday morning as re-elected Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto took her oath of office together with her husband, returning senator Ralph Recto. READ MORE

Bishop on Lipa casino: No dice – By Vito Barcelo Manila Standard Today June 28, 2010 – THE archbishop of Lipa has urged re-elected Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto to stop the construction of gambling facilities at an exclusive resort in the province, near the newly erected Parish of St. Therese church. “May I respectfully beg your honor not to allow these immoralities taint your good record,” Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles said in a letter dated June 7. READ MORE

The cruise that refreshes – By Ricardo F. Lo The Philippine Star June 28, 2010 – Three weeks after the May 10 elections in which they both emerged winners (she reelected Batangas governor and he elected senator), Vilma Santos and husband Ralph Recto hied off to the States for a well-deserved R&R. “The past elections were the hardest I’ve been through,” admitted Vilma who first completed three terms as Lipa City mayor before she ran for governor (now on her second term). “Three parties merged against me and I fought a good fight. But as I’ve been saying, now that the elections are over, dapat magkaisa na kaming mga taga-Batangas para sa probinsya namin, at para sa bayan.” READ MORE

Censors celebrate the movies – By Bayani San Diego Jr. Philippine Daily Inquirer June 27, 2010 – It’s surreal, some filmmakers have pointed out, that the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) decided to honor the year’s best films and performances with a first-ever awards ceremony. In short, that’s celebrating, instead of censuring movie people. READ MORE

ABS-CBN big winner at GMMSF Entertainment Awards – GMANews.tv June 24, 2010 – Luis Manzano accepted the Best Actress trophy in behalf of his mom Vilma Santos for the same family film and thanked her and her Vilmanians for the unwavering support. READ MORE

Governor Vi visits Taal evacuees — report – GMANews.tv June 23, 2010 – Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto on Wednesday visited her constituents who fled their homes due to restive Taal Volcano, a radio report said. Radio dzRH reported late Wednesday that Santos-Recto visited the families staying at evacuation centers in San Nicolas, Balete and Talisay towns in the province to distribute relief goods. READ MORE

Kapuso remakes Ravelo’s Trudis Liit – By Isah V. Red Manila Standard Today June 21, 2010 – Vilmanians are reacting in a variety of ways with Kapuso’s decision to remake the landmark movie that made Vilma Santos a household name in the early ’60s. Some are happy, but very few I hear are not, especially those who are dyed-in-the-wool Kapamilya followers.  READ MORE

Batangas on alert for Taal Volcano – Manila Bulletin June 14, 2010 – The Batangas Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) together with Philippine National Police Provincial Office (PNPPO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and local disaster units held an emergency meeting at the Provincial Capitol to draw out plans for the immediate response and disaster management to affected towns around Taal Volcano as it shows signs of possible eruption. READ MORE

Comparing ABS-CBN ‘Wowowee’ hosts Luis Manzano and Willie Revillame –  By Lisa Bacani BayanihanTayo.com June 12, 2010 – As you know Willie Revillame has been absent from his hosting duties on the popular ABS-CBN variety show “Wowowee”, and a line-up of celebrities were alternating as host for Wowowee during Willie’s absence such as; Robin Padilla, Billy Joe Crawford, John Lloyd Cruz, Luis Manzano and recently Gabby Concepcion and his daughter KC Concepcion. READ MORE

Jovit Baldovino’s manager clarifies issue regarding ‘snubbing’ Governor Vi’s election sorties – By Anya Santos http://www.mb.com.ph June 11, 2010 – On a June 1 tabloid report, “Pilipinas Got Talent” finalist Jovit Baldovino was reported to have reneged on a deal to sing during a campaign gathering for Batangas Governor Vilma Santos, who was then gunning for re-election. In that report, Baldovino’s camp was said to have canceled the young singer’s appearance at the last minute in lieu of accepting an invitation from Governor Vi’s opponent because of a much bigger talent fee.  READ MORE

My star-struck moments – By Butch Francisco The Philippine Star June 05, 2010 – In spite of the fact that I had been in the business of interviewing and interacting with celebrities for heaven knows how long, I never gave myself the chance to pause and ponder if I got star-struck by certain showbiz personalities. But first things first: If you are from the industry, it’s a different kind of star-struck feeling that you get when you are constantly exposed to movie stars. You get star-struck on a different — and definitely more personal — level. READ MORE

Ai Ai Delas Alas goes back to school – By Mario Dumaual, ABS-CBN News June 3, 2010 – Actor-politicians like Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos, who earned a certificate course in the same college, and incoming QC Mayor Herbert Bautista have inspired her to go back to school, the actress said. READ MORE

GMA scraps mature drama in favor of ‘Trudis Liit’ – By Mario Bautista Malaya June 2, 2010 – Due to the huge success of “Momay” starring child actress Xyriel Manabat, GMA-7 is shelving the mature drama “Bakit Kay Tagal ng Sandali” with Maxene Magalona and replacing it with the remake of a movie also starring a child star, “Trudis Liit,” the first movie of Vilma Santos in 1963. READ MORE

No meddler, this Ate Vi – By Dolly Anne Carvajal Philippine Daily Inquirer May 30, 2010 – Angel Locsin denies rumors that Ate Vi (Vilma Santos) hurled invectives at her and told son Luis Manzano to break up with her. “Tita Vi never meddled in my relationship with Luis,” Angel clarifies. “She never treated me in a bad way. Super bait niya po sa akin until now, kahit split na kami ni Luis.” READ MORE

John Lloyd, Sarah named Box-office King and Queen  – Vilma Santos, was selected Film Actress of the Year – By Butch Francisco philstar.com May 29, 2010 – John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo are again this year’s Box-Office King and Queen and they are being awarded for the huge success at the tills of their 2009 romantic comedy You Changed My Life (from Viva Films and Star Cinema). Last year, they also won the same titles for A Very Special Love, 2008’s monster hit. READ MORE

Kris releases ‘thank you’ K mag for stars who helped Noy – abs-cbnnews.com May 28, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – To express her appreciation to all the stars and personalities who helped her brother, president-apparent Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III during the campaign, Queen of All Media Kris Aquino released a “thank you” issue of her magazine “The Kris Aquino Magazine (K Magazine).” READ MORE

Vilma Santos throws star-studded victory party – By Boy Villasanta abs-cbnnews.com May 26, 2010 – BATANGAS CITY—As what actor Christopher de Leon expressed on Tuesday afternoon, “this is a powerhouse cast.” He was referring, of course, to the luminaries present during the victory and thanksgiving celebrations thrown by re-elected Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos at the front ramp of the provincial capital hall in this city. READ MORE

Ate Vi – Bandera May 19, 2010 – PINAKAMATAMIS ang tagumpay na hawak ngayon ni Governor Vilma Santos-Recto kumpara sa nakaraang apat na beses niyang pagtakbo. Mas mahigpit, mas marami, mas personal ang pinagdaanan niyang laban bilang gobernador uli ng Batangas. Sa mismong mga salita ni Governor Vilma, “‘Yung mga taong kumukuha sa akin noon para kumandidatong vice-president na naniniwala sa kapasidad ko, nu’ng tanggihan ko sila, ‘yun pa mismo ang mga taong nagkaisa para kalabanin at ilaglag ako.”  READ MORE

Edu Manzano disappointed over defeat, says son – By Napoleon Quintos ABS-CBNnews.com May 17, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Luis Manzano admitted that he felt sad for his father, Edu Manzano, who lost his bid for vice presidency in the national elections. Luis said he spoke with his dad over the phone when the counting of votes began, and he revealed that his father was disappointed that he lost in the elections.  READ MORE

For Krina Cayabyab, it’s in the genes – By Nestor Torre Inquirer.net May 17, 2010 – LAST WEEK, we got word that Ryan and Emmy Cayabyab’s daughter, Krina, composed a song that had gotten into the finals of Filscap’s ongoing songwriting tilt.   READ MORE

FUNFARE: Sweet victory for Vi , Lucy – By Ricardo F. Lo Philstar.com May 15, 2010 – The first thing that reelected Batangas Gov. Vilma “Ate Vi” Santos did when she learned that she won by a landslide in the last May 10 elections was heave a big sigh of relief. “It was the hardest campaign that I ever survived,” Vi told Funfare in an exclusive interview. “Sa lahat ng laban ko, ito ang pinaka-mahirap. Three parties joined forces against me, so my team and I had to work harder. Ang daming issues na ibinato sa akin but fortunately, as the election results showed, my constituents didn’t believe them.” READ MORE

Vilma Santos re-elected as Batangas governor – ABS-CBNnews.com May 13, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Actress-turned-politician Vilma Santos has been re-elected governor of Batangas. The Commission on Elections’ board of canvassers on Wednesday night proclaimed her the winner of the gubernatorial race in the province. READ MORE

3-D graphics on GMA7 create buzz among viewers – By Candice Montenegro GMATVnews.com May 13, 2010 – A day after the May 10 elections, presidential front runner Sen. Noynoy Aquino was in his hometown in Tarlac but television viewers saw GMA News anchor Mike Enriquez interviewing him as if he were inside GMA Network’s Eleksyon 2010 studio in Quezon City.  READ MORE

Ate Vi, Boyet, Singsons, Dutertes win – By L Manalo, B Tesiorna, F Lazaro Tempo May 12, 2010 – Actress Vilma Santos-Recto was reelected governor of Batangas by a wide margin in the elections last Monday. She defeated Sto. Tomas Mayor Edna Sanchez by more than 200,000 votes. Mayor Sanchez substitued for her husband, former Gov. Arman Sanchez, who died a few days before the elections. READ MORE

Those who win, those who are leading – By Ricardo F. Lo Philstar.com May 12, 2010 – Last Monday’s elections were probably one of the most star-studded. I’m referring not only to actor-politicians but also to candidates who have showbiz affiliation. As everybody must have known by now, popularity is a double-edged weapon. It can either make or unmake a candidate. It’s not a guarantee that a popular actor is winnable.  READ MORE

Vilma Santos winning in Batangas – ABS-CBNNews.com May 11, 2010 – Commission on Elections (Comelec) partial and official results from 25 out of 34 municipalities in Batangas showed that Santos was leading by a wide margin over Edna Sanchez.  Santos had 360, 028 votes votes while Sanchez had only 243,832 votes. READ MORE

Vilma Santos to be honored at 7th Golden Screen Awards – By Boy Villasanta abs-cbnNEWS.com May 05, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – By virtue of her illustrious string of performances on screen, re-electionist Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos will be feted with the Lino Brocka Lifetime Achievement Award at the Entertainment Press Society, Inc.’s (Enpress) 7th Golden Screen Awards at Teatrino in Greenhills Wednesday night.  READ MORE 

Death lulls action-packed Batangas gubernatorial race – By Aie Balagtas See GMANews.TV May 03, 2010 – With only a week to go before election day, gubernatorial candidates all over the country are busy charming their constituents to ensure victory in the May 10 polls. But in the province of Batangas, all is quiet on the electoral front for now. It hardly seemed that way two Sundays ago, when former Governor Armando Sanchez was courting the support of the local village chiefs of Bauan town to help him claim back the post he had lost to film celebrity-turned-politician Vilma Santos-Recto in 2007.   READ MORE 

Re-electionist Gov. Vi resumes campaigning in Batangas – By Ferdinand F Castro Manila Bulletin May 01, 2010 – Re-electionist Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto resumed campaigning Saturday after resting for three days in deference to the death of her closest politic rival, ex-Batangas Governor Arman Sanchez. Her caravan traveled along the main thoroughfares of Batangas City, showcasing other candidates running under the Liberal Party.   READ MORE 

Elderly women share best actress award for ‘Lola’ – “You’re nominated for Best Actress but you’re running against Vilma, so you should be nervous” – By Marinel Cruz Philippine Daily Inquirer May 01, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines—Veteran actresses Anita Linda and Rustica Carpio, who play two elderly women at opposing ends of a murder case in the Brillante Mendoza drama “Lola,” shared the Best Actress award at the 33rd Urian Awards given by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino on Thursday night.   READ MORE 

Vilma Santos to postpone sorties after rival dies – By Aie Balagtas See GMA News April 28, 2010 – Batangas Governor and re-electionist Vilma Santos-Recto will temporarily postpone her campaign sorties as a sign of respect for her rival Armand Sanchez who died on Tuesday.   READ MORE  

Sanchez dies; Santos a shoo-in  – Manila Standard Today April 28, 2010 – Former Batangas Gov. Armando Sanchez died Tuesday night after suffering from a stroke while campaigning, a family doctor said Tuesday. The damage to his brain was so severe that the semi-comatose Sanchez had only “5 to 10 percent survival rate,” Isagani Bolompo, Sanchez’s family doctor and medical spokesman, told reporters earlier at the Mary Mediatrix Medical Center in Lipa City. Sanchez died at 7:20 p.m. from multi-pulmonary arrest and secondary cerebral hemorrhage, Bolompo said.   READ MORE

Disqualification case a ‘desperate move’ by rival – By Marrah Erika Lesaba Inquirer April 26, 2010 – BATANGAS CITY, Philippines — Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto called the disqualification suit filed against her by the camp of her rival, Armando Sanchez, as a political harassment and a “really desperate move” by her detractors.   READ MORE 

In My Life tops 26th PMPC Star Awards for Movies – Philstar.com April 26, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Star Cinema’s In My Life topped the 26th PMPC Star Awards for Movies held last Saturday night at Ateneo’s Henry Lee Irwin Theater — Movie Actress for Vilma Santos (who was not present), John Lloyd Cruz, Movie Actor, Luis Manzano, Movie Supporting Actor, Olivia Lamasan, Movie Director, Charlie Peralta, Movie Cinematography, Raymond Lee, Olivia Lamasan and Senedy Que, Movie Original Screenplay, and Movie of the Year.   READ MORE 

Star Awards honors Carlo J. Caparas, In My Life big winner with seven nods – bworldonline.com April 26, 2010 – In spite the tsunami of criticism that swamped over him after he was named a National Artist last year, komiks writer and film director Carlo J. Caparas received a special citation for his achievements at the 26th Star Awards for Movies on Saturday night.   READ MORE 

‘In My Life’ wins big in Star Awards – ABS-CBN April 25, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – It was a landslide victory for Star Cinema’s “In My Life” at the 26th Star Awards for Movies on Saturday. The film won best picture, best director for Olivia Lamasan, best supporting actor for Luis Manzano, best actor for John Lloyd Cruz, and best actress for Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos.   READ MORE 

Vilma Santos to appear in TV ad with Aquino – By Philip Tubeza Philippine Daily Inquirer April 18, 2010 – Batangas, Philippines – Will the Vilmanians vote for Noynoy? With only three more weeks to go before the elections, the Liberal Party (LP) is expected to come out with a TV ad showing one of its showbiz heavyweights, Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos, endorsing LP standard-bearer Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. READ MORE 

The then and the now – By Norma Japitana The Philippine Star April 04, 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – THEN: Catch a flashback of an evening of confidences written for a column on Jan. 5, 1989. It was an interesting mix to start with. Babette Villaruel, Mama Monchang, Bong de Leon and Mar Cornes hugging a corner of that magnificent garden at Forbes Park. We have come a long way, baby, since that time we all enjoyed the highlights of Aling Maring’s merienda at El Oro. READ MORE 

Vilma, Ralph Join Noy-Mar Team boost LP Star Power – Inquirer Nov 17, 2009  READ MORE 

Vilma Santos will show viewers her house in Alabang – PEP August 12, 2009 – After her special dance production last Saturday, Vilma Santos will now open her home as viewers get to know the respected actress as a mother, sister and friend for the third episode of Vilma: A Woman for All Seasons on ABS-CBN.  READ MORE 

Most Memorable Moments in Philippine Movies from 1950 onwards– Pinoy Showbiz Portal, by Mario E. Bautista 2010 – Part kami ng tinatawag na henerasyon ng baby boomers na isinilang pagkatapos ng World War II at lumaki sa impluwensiya ng pinilakang tabing. Growing up as a child in the 1950s, wala pa noong telebisyon kaya ang pangunahing libangan ng aming pamilya ay manood ng sine tuwing weekends. Hindi na namin mabilang kung ilang local movies ang napanood namin sa Life, Dalisay at Center Theatres. Sa loob ng madilim na sinehan, the medium of cinema has the power to transport you to another world and, through the following decades, napakarami na ng unforgettable moments ang aming naranasan habang nanonood kami ng palabas sa higanteng telon. We want to share some of them here with you. READ MORE

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