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Fernado Military Air Base Honoured Mayor Vi

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special Film: Manila By Night retitled City After Dark

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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)

Source: Pelikulapinoy101

Vilma Santos, A Star For All Reasons and Seasons

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ARTICLES - Vilma Santos 1A Star For All Reasons

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)

ARTICLES - Vilma Santos 2000A 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)

Vilma and the Vilmanians: Truly Blessed by God

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ARTICLES - Vilma with Father JMeeting 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

The Queen comes to America

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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)

…And God Smiled At Vilma and Vilmanians

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ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 1(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 80’s, 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.

ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 12Like 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.

ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 8EVERYBODY 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 couple’s 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 God’s 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!”

ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 6MORE 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.

ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 4Meawhile, 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 Vilma’s 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.

ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 9And 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.

ARTICLES - Fiesta NY 2005 7The 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)

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Sinong Mas Magaling – “…Both Nora and Vilma have proven their virtuosity in acting in a number of their films that can equal, if not surpass even the best performances of such internationally-acclaimed actresses such as Anna Magnani, Simone Signoret, Jane Fonda, Faye Dunaway and Meryl Streep; (for Nora) Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos, Atsay, Minsaý Isang Gamu-gamo, Bona, Bakit Bughaw ang Langit, Merika, Condemned, (for Vilma) Rubia Servios, Relasyon, Broken Marriage, Adultery and Alyas Baby Tsina. Ang lumang kuwestiyon kung sino ang mas magaling umarte sa dalawang aktress na unwarranted, unfair, immaterial and irrelevant, to say the least. At most, comparing both actresses’acting capabilities is stupid. Sabi ng ni Meryl Streep: “It’s insane to have winners and losers in art. We live in a society plagued by sports mania. To say that one performances is better than the other is just plain dumb. You wouldn’t think of comparing two colors in a painting woul you?…” One thing is clear though both Nora and Vilma are terrific actresses. Sabi ng isang Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, Tezza Parel: “We had great difficulty in judging who between Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos should win for their work in Himala and Relasyon. I think we had several ties in judgements until we finally chose Vilma for Relasyon. But even after that there would still be somebody in the group who would protest!” Both Nora and Vilma have reached their peaks – as it seems at this time – as actresses in two of the most magnificens and staggering motion pictures (take note: walang word na “local”) ever made, namely Himal and Sister Stella L respectively. As the faithhealer Elsa in Himala, Nora proves that she is the master in underrated acting (said to be the most difficult acting style), calm as sea on the surface but raging with fire and passion within. It is a gripping and mesmerising performance, nothing less. And in Sister Stella L, Vilma mastered all her acting mastery in acting ans sense of gallantry to breathe lief in her potentially explosive nun character and than provoked, disturbed and conscientisized the moviegoing public on the socio-polical issues being presented in the film. It is a powerful performance…” – Anonymous, photo clip of the article posted at facebook acct of fb user, Mike Herrera (READ MORE)

Vi on her Directors – “…Masarap katrabaho si Mike (de Leon). Kaya ganado akong gumising ng maaga at hindi talaga ako nale-late. Kaya naman ako nale-late sa iba, kasi alam kong darating nga ako ng maaga pero maghihintay muna ako nang matagal dahil magse-set-up pa. Kay Mike, alam mo, pagdating mo, trabaho na agad. No more waiting, hindi na aayusing ang set at isasalang ka na. Very systematic kasi siya. Kahit minsan hindi ako naghintay nang matagal…” On Lino Brocka, “…He knows what he wants to get mula sa artista niya. Talagang iga-guide ka niya to get a particular reaction na gusto niyang iarte mo para sa kamera. He’s a real actor’s director. Kaya nang mahawakan niya ako noon sa Rubia, very confident ako dahil alam kong magandang lumabas ang acting ko, e. Gano’n din dito sa Adultery…” On Ishmael Bernal, “…Si Bernie, he’s really one of the best,”she say with great emphasis. “Talagang one of my favorites. Matagal na kaming magkatrabaho, way back sa Tagalog Ilang-Ilang in Inspiration, Now and Forever, Ikaw ay Akin. At saka ýung mga ginawa namin sa Lea, Like Dalawang Pugad, Isang Ibon. He can be very demanding, very strict. Naninigaw Lalo kapag hindi mo makuha ang gusto niyang ipagawa sa iyo. Like when we were doing Broken Marriage at sabi niya, Mukha raw akong masaya when I should look tired and depressed. So he sent me to the comfort toom at pinag-jogging ako roon…” – Mario E. Bautista, Movie Flash, 1984 (READ MORE)

Nora’s Turn – “…Despite the overwhelming rivalry between the two actresses, the professinal lives of Nora and Vilma run parallel with each other. It Nora is up, Vilma is down. Kung si Vilma ay nakasakay sa tugatog ng tagumpay, si Nora ay parang lumalangoy sa iba’t ibang klaseng trahedya. Bago manalo si Nora for her marvelous performance in Eddie Garcia’s Atsay (1978), Vilma was the darling of Movie companies and the press, nage-enjoy ng tagumpay sa takilya at magagandang write-ups sa lahat ng movie magazines. It was bruised na Vilma Santos’convincing portrayal of the rape victim in Rubia Servios would cap the year that was one of Vilma’s best personally and professionally dahil Nora seemed to be at her lowest cob, a floundering movie and TV career and a turbulent private life. Sabi nga, Atsay was Nora’s “last card.” But the last card turned out to be an ace and after Nora’s tearful and moving award acceptance speech at the Metro Manila Film Festival Awards Night (“Mamay Tunying, Mali ang Hula nila!”), it wa Nora’s turn to be on top and Vilma seemed like typhoid to movie producers…” – Gerard Ramos (READ MORE)

Nahulog si Jean Garcia – “…Medyo napangisi kami nang nanalo si Redford White bilgn best actor in comedy. Sa labing isnag taon niya kasi na nilagi sa industriya ay ngayon lang talaga siya napansin. Habang tumatagal ay lalong nawawala ang mga manonood. Napansin namin si Mel Chnco na nakaarko ang kilay at ang kanyang mga kasamahan ay unti-unti na ring ngasisialisan. Narinig namin ang bulung-bulungan sa likod na na nag-walk-out daw ang mga taga-Channel 2 dahil panay taga-siyete ang nananalo. As usual ay parating magkakasama ang magkabarkada na sina Tina Revilla at si Coney Reyes. Para silang rugbyna hindi mawalay sa isa’t isa. Nandoon din ang isa pa nilang kabarkada na si Vilma ngunit hindi nila masyadong nakausap dahil nagho-host ang star of all season. Ang tanging wala lang sa kanilang magkakaibigan ay si Helen Vela. very dramatic and pagtanggap ni Coney nang kanyang award. Makikita mo talaga ang kanyang sincerity sa kanyang pagluha nang nabanggit niya ang pangalang Vic Sotto. Bakit kaya? Napatingin kami sa likod nang kinalabit kami ng aming katabi. Nginuso si Armida Siguion Reyna. nakatawag-pansin kasi ang kanyang suot nang gabing iyon. Naka-preggy look siya na tinernohna ng itim na tights may award ba sa worst dress?…Nahulog si Jean Garcia sa backstage pagkatapos ng kanilang production number dahil sa kanyang katangahan. Madalian kasi at hindi niya nakita ang hagdanan. Nanginginig siya sa takot at pagkabigla. Walang tigil siya sa kanyang pagluha. Ang pinagtataka lang namin, bakit yung iba niyang kasamahan hindi nalaglag? Bukod tanging siya lang…” – Joey Sarmiento (READ MORE)

Vilma-Nora Rivalry – “…Despite the emergence Sharon Cuneta and Maricel Soriano, who are predictedto dominate the movie scene of the ’80s, Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos manages to remain in the limelight. Their rivalry, which started in the late ’60s and reached its peak in the ’70s, continues until now, the mid ’80s. Undoubtedly, Vilma has a big, big edge this year over Nora. Vi wonan Urian Broken Marriage and appeared in two Rated A films, Lino Brocka’s Adultery and Mike de Leon’s Sister Stella L., which is currently showing in Metro Manila. Vi’s doing Marilou Diaz Abaya’s Alyas Baby Tsina. Nora, on the other hand, is lying low from the movie scene these days. Her ‘Merika, directed by Gil Portes is still in the post-production stage and has no playdate yet. She’s still shooting Mario O’Hara’s Ermita, which started late last year…and its completion is nowhere in sight. But for a FAMAS nomination, the other award giving groups “ignored” Nora..” – Ronald K. Constantino (READ MORE)

Talbog si Guy – “…Mas maraming aktor ang na-link kay Vilma Santos kaysa sa karibal-kaibigan niyang si Nora Aunor. Huwag nating ilista no! Nakakahiya lang. Pero sa totoo lang, Tita, pagdating sa lalaki, mga guwapong lalake, talbug na talbog Vi si Guy. Tested and proven ‘yan. Si Vi kasi maski asa mid-30s na, nakaka-attract pa rin ng mga baget kahit ten years ang bata sa kanya. Puwede pa ngang ma-link sa kanya ang isang Aga Muhlach eh! The Eskinol beauty of Vi kasi is so refreshing na mukhang mabangung-mabango hindi lang mga leeg. O di nga ba’t pati mga Gabby Concepcion at Eric Quizon ay puwedeng ipareha kay Vi?…Sa dancing, talbog din ni Vi si Guy. Napanood ba ninyo ang opening number ni Vi last Friday sa Vilma? Nakakaloka! Talbog talaga ni Vi si Guy pagdating sa sayawan at sirkuhan. Pati sa mga poging boys ay walang binatbat si Guy sa karisma ni Vi…” – Chito P. Alcid (READ MORE)

Welcome Back Joey – “…Ngayon, our mutual best friend, si Joey Marquez, player ng Ginebra ay nag-artista na rin. Tulad namin ni Anjo, “susubukan”daw muna niya kung okay sa kanya ang pag-aartista o hindi. He’s just anticipating for that day hen he could no longer be a professional basketball player, and there’s a second career for him. Oo nga naman. Kung kabado man si Joey, it’s not the usual nervousness most newcomer feel. Meron siyang konting confidence dahil unang-una, ang producer ng debut film niya, ang Tagos ng Dugo ay ang kanyang sariling kapatid Si Via Marques Hoffman. Mag-aksaya man siya ng negatibo, hindi siya masyadong titilian. Pangalawa, ka-vibes na n’ya si Maryo de los Reyes resident director ng VH Films. Pangatlo, being the youngest son of Artemio Marquez by his real wife Terrisita Perez (kapatid ng ama ni Elwood Perez, kaya magpinsan sial), sanay na si Joeysa ambience ng showbiz. Pang-apat, kontinglambing lang kay Ate Via, may pang-happening na naman kami. Katunayan nga, lagi kong naririnig si Ate Via an sinisita si Joey dahil bayad na ito “for four films!” Mahusay mangkarinyo kasi!…” – Richard Gomez (READ MORE)

Progress Report – “…Ang payat mo” ang bungad naming bati sa kanya. “Kailangan kasi,” was her reply. “Medyo tumaba na nga ako ngayon. nahinto kasi ang shooting namin ng ilang days. You should’ve seen me a week ako. mas payat ako noon.” But it become her. Mas mukha siyang teenager. She sure that by now, alam na niyang kailangang lang magpapayat ni Vilma Santos para sa kanyang pelikulang ginagawa ngayon, ang Alyas Baby Tsina. Since she is in between pictures, kakaunti ang makikitang artikulo ngayon sa kanya. That’s why we have to write this progress report on her latest films. We asked her kung malapit nang matapos ang Baby Tsina. “Malayo pa eh,”she replied. “Ang dami kasi naming re-shoot. Sabi ni Marilou (Abaya, her director), May nasira raw ang ilang negatibo kaya’t kailangang ulitin. At last week of September, tapos na siguro. Did she like the movie? “Naku, malaking pelikula.”sambit niya. “Three acts kasi ‘yon. Inuna naming i-shoot ‘yung third act nang nakakulong na si Baby sa Correctional. Tapos we went back to perion noong prostiture pa lang siya. Ang hirap maging prostitute! Ngayon, we’re on the second act, love triangle kami nina Dindo Fernando at Philip Salvador…We were quite hesitant at first to ask her…kung tutuong and Sister Stella ay hindi kumita na tulad ng inaasahan. “I was told by Mother Lily na kumita naman daw pero siyempre I still feel disappointed because of high expectations nga ng lahat ng tao…Pero nuong una pa, marami sa aking nagsasabi na baka hindi raw kikita dahil seryosong masyado ‘yung pelikula…Sa ngayon ngaý ipinadala ang pelikula sa Venice Film Festival na ginaganap ngayon. Nagpunta roon si Mike de Leon bilang kinatawanan ng pelikula at ng bansa at gusto ni Mother Lily na sumama na rin si Vi sa delegasyon roon. “Pero imposible nga akong umalis dahil sa commitment ko sa Baby Tsina, lalo na malapit nang matapos ang shooting namin…” – Mario E. Bautista, Movie Flash, 1984 (READ MORE)

TIFF – “…At the sold-out premiere in Toronto, many in the long lineup awaiting the film’s start were excited to watch it given the critical acclaim at Cinemalaya. Arnold Manalac, a big Santos fan, organized about 20 of his friends to come watch the film. “These are all my college friends, friends here in Toronto, some of my relatives,” he said while pointing out the smiling faces with him, “so we organized and came up with a small group to support this film. The crowd of mostly Filipino-Canadians was abuzz with anticipation, including the very first people in the line, Danny Ong and Ricardo Obusan, who came to support independent Filipino films. Jeturian signed autographs before and after the film’s screening and took questions from the audience. The final showing of Ekstra at TIFF is Sept. 15, but the movie will have a theatrical release in eight Canadian cities including Mississauga and Scarborough from Sept. 13 to 26…” – Dyan Ruiz, The Philippine Reporter, 13 Sept 2013 (READ MORE)

Hindi Mabubuo Nang Walang Ekstra – “…Lahat ng pagod and kaba mo nawala lahat. Nagawa ko ito as contribution for art. Napatunayan na hindi lahat, kapag sinabing artista ay kailangan bayaran. Hindi eh. This is a contribution. They gave their all. Yung reception kanina, yun na yung bayad sa amin. This is very different, makikita niyo na ekstra talaga ako. Buong time ko, bida ako since 9, ngayon ekstra talaga ako. Maramandaman niyo naman ang pakiramdam maging ekstra. Ang isang pelikula ay hindi mabubuo nang walang ekstra…Ako naman, sa tinagal ko na sa pelikula, nakikita ko na sila. It’s about time bigyan natin sila ng importansya, tao din sila, may pangangailangan sila. Aminin natin, we take them for granted. Wag naman sana. Sa pelikula, may pamilya si Loida na nangangailangan ng tuiton, gagawin niya ang lahat maibigay lang iyon para sa anak niya. Positibo siya sa ending, baka may booking pa. See, hindi sya nawalan ng pag-asa. Iyon ang mahalaga, hindi mawalan ng pag-asa…” – Raj Bay, MadHouseMNL, 13 August 2013 (READ MORE)

Vilma, Robredo lead “Lingkod Bayan Awardees” – The late Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jessy M. Robredo and Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto were among this year’s Presidential Lingkod Bayan awardees. President Benigno S. Aquino III led the awarding yesterday of the recipeints – 22 government individuals and six government organization – at the Rizal Hall in Malacañang. The awardees were chosen from 383 nominations. The Presidential Lingkod Bayan award is conferred on an individual or group for exceptional contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had nationwide impact on public interest. Robredo’s award was received by his eldest daughter, Jessica Marie. His posthumous Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award was in recognition of his efforts in government, particularly in exemplifyingthe ideal in public service. “His principled leadership, compassion for the vulnerable, and pride in serving the Filipino people are manifestations of his outstanding servant leadership,”his citation said. “During his stint as Secreatary of the Department of Interior and Local Government, he institutionalized a full disclosure policy to help minimize, if not totally eradicate corruption in the local level. He also awarded exceptional local government units with the Seal of Good Housekeeping which, in turn, motivated local chief executives to improve their operations,” it added. Aquino also conferred the Presidential Lingkod Bayan award to Batangas Gov. Rosa Vilma Santos-Recto, who was accompanied by her husband Sen. Ralph G. Recto and children Luis and Ryan Christian. Vilma’s award was in recognition of her effort to addressed overcrowding in Taal Lake to improve water quality and prevent fish kills. She also made possible the improvement of road imfrastructures, modernization of district hospitals, and the establishment of the first provincial-based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) Center in Batangas. – Madel Sabater, Tempo

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lucky Seven – “…Reports have it that Vilma Santos has recently acquired a house in Greenhills for a whopping amount of seven million pesos. Santos, the reports add, will move in to the new residence on her birthday, Nov. 3. The number 7 seems to play a significant role in the actress’ life. In 1981, she discovered – to her horror – that she was buried in debt to the tune of 7 million pesos. Seven years later, she’s lording it over on television’s rating’s chart with her top rated musical variety show on Channel 7. And wasn’t her son Lucky, now seven year-old, born weighing 7.7 lbs. and was baptized on the 7th day of the 7th month in 1981? And now she bought a new house for seven million pesos. At any rate, now that Santos’new abode is located in the Greenhills area, the San Juan exclusive subdivision might as well be considered the new Beverly Hills of local movies. No less than the local movies’biggest stars reside in the neighborhood, to with: Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces, Dolphy and recently Nora Aunor. And soon Santos of course. …” – Meg Mendoza, Manila Standard, 04 Oct 1988 p25 (READ MORE)

1988 Asean Film Festival – “…If plans push through, Vilma Santos is slated to represent the country at the Asean Film Festival to be held in Ginza Tokyo, Japan on Dec. 1-9. The top actress is supposed to leave with director Marilou Diaz-Abaya for the exhibition of their movie Baby Tsina and Ishmael Bernal for Himala. Whoever is responsible for selecting the three artists should be commended for they couldn’t have chosen better representatives. Santos, Abaya and Bernal’s award-winning films have become a source of inspiration of their fans and peers in the movie industry.” – Meg Mendoza, Manila Standard, 02 Oct 1988 p27 (READ MORE)

Vilma Turns 35 – “…Top movie actress and tv host Vilma Santos celebrated her 35th birh anniversary today. As a fitting tribute, a two-week celebration is going to be presented on her top-rating show, Vilma, tomorrow and on Nov. 11. Santos has been in the business for 26 years now and there is never a year in her memorable career that she did not come up with small and big surprises. For this year, it looks like she’s limited herself to only two movies (Pahiram ng Isang Umaga, the actress says, is going to be shown before the year ends), but her tv show has earned for her added success. Last Oct. 6, we saw Ging, her second movie as a child star in Channel 13’s Golden Tagalog Classic and even then, she showed that she was to the screen born. The hardworking actress’ never-ending search for new things to learn and her amazing determination to succeed have made her the longest reigning and highest paid movie and tv queen. No wonder, until now she still gets the juiciest movie and tv offers and the meatiest roles to portray Indeed, at 35, Santos has made her showbiz, years well accounted for – and how…GMA-7’s “Seven Days to Remember in November”kicks off on Nov 7 with Lamat sa Kristal, a two-hour Vilma Santos drama special; Nov 8 – Double Title Fight with Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde live via satellite from the Cesar’s Palace at 10:30 a.m. (Manila time); Nov 9 – GMA Gems presents Windmills of the Gods; Nov 10 – Jake and the Fat Man; Nov 11 – Vilma Birthday Presentation 2; Nov 12 – Martin Nievera’s show MAD goes live; and Nov 13 – the NBA Games More special shows from the station’s regular programs are going to be shown from day one to seven…” – Meg Mendoza, Manila Standard, 03 Nov 1988, p25 (READ MORE)

Vilma Draws The Line – “…Contrary to reports, Vilma Santos and her boyfriend of three years Ralph Recto are still very much together. In a recent interview, the top actress explained their present situation. “Hindi totoo yung balita. We’re still okay. In any relationship, there are ups and downs but as you can see, payat ako ngayon. Anybody who knows me well enough, can tell if I’m happy or not. Kung tumataba ako, siguradong may problema.” Between her and Recto, who usually admits his/her mistake and say sorry? “Pareho kami. One thing about Ralp is that he doesn’t meddle in showbiz life, may sarili siyang daigdig pero naiintindihan niya ang mundo ko.” But Recto seems so mysterious. Is it deliberate on her part to keep him away from the limelight? “In a way, yes,” Santos continues, “I have always been honest to everybody I have never keep my relationship with Ralp a secret I have admitted that he’s y boyfriend and that’s as far as I can go. “Besides, hindi naman siya artista, bakit kailangang halukayin pa? Hindi naman ako naglilihim ng tungkol sa kanya at hindi naman ako puwedeng maglihim dahil malalaman din ng tao. We’re okay and I’m happy. Kitang-kita naman di ba?…” – Meg mendoza, Manila Standard, 03 Dec 1988, p15 (READ MORE)

Legal Action – “…We just don’t know if their reconciliation would mean Eric’s return to “Loveli-ness” when he is now a regular co-host of another variety show, “Vilma!” And may we ask: Eric alam ba ni Dolor Guevarra (his manager) ang pagbabati ninyong ‘yan ni Ness?…Some people are egging Vilma Santos to take legal action against her detractors. But the actress reportedly chooses to be silent. “Kung ikaliligaya nila na siraan ako, it’s fine with me. Basta ba nakakatulog ako nang mahimbing sa gabi, okay lang sa akin!…” – Dennis Adobas, Manila Standard, 05 August 1989 p24 (READ MORE)

Celso’s Proposal – “…After Vilma Santos received the much-coveted “Hall of Fame” title from the Famas, Malaysia-based director Celso Ad Castillo asked her to do a movie in Malaysia. Will Vilma squeeze in her hectic schedule to accomodate one of her favorite directors proposals? We heard Celso Ad is making the necessary negotiations with Atty. Espiridion Laxa who has been helping the actress in her legal and business deals. The director wants to do a telemovie with Vilma as the lead star. He wants no other actress in this project but Vilma alone. This will be shown in Malaysia and Singapore. Atty. Laxa says Vilma will most likely approve the proposal since she has a high regard for the director. “It’s easy to convince Vilma since she has always been impressed with Celso. Vilma has already been handled by Celso in several movies. But I think it should be something which can be finished within five days. If Vilma can hole herself in Tagaytay for five days, what difference does it make if she does a telemovie in Kuala Lumpur or Singapore?” Atty. Laxa said…” – Eddie Libo-on, Manila Standard, 06 June 1990 p16 (READ MORE)

Once There Was A Love – “…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, 09 Jan 2013, p17 (READ MORE)

First Meeting – “…Vilma Santos did not expect that her first experience at the Lower House could be so pleasant. “They were very nice. I was expecting that they’ll just tolerate me kasi artista lang ako, but they even posed with me,” she shared. Glas de Venecia, wife of the speaker, asked her to join the Congressional Ladies Group. Ate Vi said that as soon as things settle down after the December 11 wedding to be held at the Lipa Cathedral, she will organize a foundation for street children. First in Lipa and later here in Metro Manila. Vi said that her latest movie Sinungaling Mong Puso, slated to open today is inspired by her tele-movie, Oce 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 Moviestar with Cesar Montano and Ronnie Rickets to be directed by Chito Roño; and another one for OctoArts with perennial screen partner, Christopher de Leon with Mike de Leon as director…” – Nena V., Manila Standard, 27 Aug 1992 (READ MORE)

Relationship with Santos – ” …And speaking of talents, Ike Lozada is “starmaker” in his own right. At previously mentioned he was responsible for the rise of several actors, actresses, and singers. A lot of people know that if German Moreno is often associated with Nora Aunor, then he in turn is associated with Vilma Santos. But it seems that while Moreno is still close to Aunor, his relationship with Santos has cooled off. How does he feel about it? “I feel na nakalimutan lang niya ako. May pinagsamahan naman kasi kami (he’s know her even before she was 10 years old).” he had been hoping that he would somehow be invited to guest in Santos’show, specially at the time when “I lost my show and I was out of circulation. Baka hindi siya ang may ayaw; maybe she has her reasons.” He feels no resentment though, and to prove it he adds: “I still care for her.” The fact that he has mellowed since his trip to the US has helped him improved his relationship with his peers in the business. If he used to hold grudges against them, he has resolved to sort it out with them. “Willing akong makipagbati. Ayoko na nang may kaaway.” He has since reconciled with Angge in Inday Badiday’s show. Lately, Ike Lozada’s been busy with a lot of things. Aside from co-hosting a daily shows and managing his talents, he produces shows in nightclubs, has a hand in a jewelry business and helps build and sell houses. Not bad for someone who’s trying to revive his status in the business. With the proliferation of teen and variety shows, luck in on his side. “The more programs, the better. They would as outlets for my talents,” he says…” – Marie T. Dimapilis, Manila Standard, 01 Oct. 1988 p24 (READ MORE)

Costliest Commercial – “Vilma Santos renews her contract with Metro Drugs Inc. manufacturers and distributors of the popular Eskinol line of beauty products. This year marks the eight year the actress will portray the glamorous Eskinol Girl, a role and image she has kept as the product’s longest-reigning model. The new Vilma Santos Eskinol commercial is a multi-million peso productions, perhaps the costliest commercial produced to date. Santos will receivea hefty talent fee, reportedly the highest of its kind so far in the industry.” – JC Nigado, Manila Standard, 08 Dec 1987 p11 (READ MORE)

Starry, Starry night… – “…Dawn Zulueta, regal in white and with a period haido that framed her lovely face, was seated on the front row. Next to her was Carmina Villaroel, wearing almost the same hairstyle…Beside her was Rustom Padilla, now sporting an earring on his left ear, his new look somehow meant to remind people that he is indeed Robin’s brother and not as bland as others think him to be…It seems the PICC people have lost control of manning the gate, or they probably just allowed anyone into the PICC Hall. Every arrival was met with resounding shrieks from the gallery above, and fans freely mingling with the guests…Aga Muhlach’s arrival was met with loud screams too…But the loudest screams were reserved for the arrivals of Sharon Cuneta and Vilma Santos. Sharon did a song-and-dance number in a Muslim-inspired gown. She was in her element waving to the crowd at every turn. later Sharon changed into another gown when it was her turn to do the emceeing honors with Richard Gomez. The fans were obviously watching the two closely – they would scream everytime the two acted sweetly to one another. They sure looked like a coosome twosome again. Vilma’s portion was very Hollywoodish. She sang and danced with a dozen dancers dressed almost like her. Then she proceeded to do her emceeing job with Christopher de Leon as partner…Dolphy got the Lifetime Achievement award from the Nora Aunor Foundation as “Ulirang Artista.” Maricel Soriano, Roderick Paulate and Vandolp offered a production number to Dolphy, which almost brought tears to his eyes. Other winners: Best Picture – Gaano Kita Kamahal; Best Child Star – Sarah Jane Abad; Best Supporting Actor – Ronaldo Valdez; Best Supporting Actress – Sharmaine Arnaiz; Best Director – Butch Perez; Best Actor – a tie between Christopher de Leon and Philip Salvador; and Best Actress – Vilma Santos…” – Norma Japitana, Manila Standard, 16 March 1994, p19 (READ MORE)

Three Famas Hall of Famers ensure “Dolzura” quality – “…Dahil Mahal Kita (The Dolzura Cortez Story) is the first film to have three hall of famers in the acting arena cast together. Boyet de Leon was elevated to Hall of Fame last May. Vilma Santos made it in 1989, Charito Solis in 1984. To be elevated to the Famas Hall of Fame, one must have been a winner five times in the same category. Vilma santos was Famas Best Actress in “Ibulong Mo Sa Diyos” (1988), “Tagos Ng Dugo” (1987), “Relasyon” (1982), “Pakawalan Mo Ako” (1981) and “Dama de Noche” (1972). Charito Solis got the Famas Best Actress trophies for “Don’t Cry For Me Mama” (1983), “Igorota” (1968), “Angustia” (1963), “Emily” (1960), “Kundiman Ng Lahi” (1959). Boyet received the Famas Best Actor honors in “Ipagpatawad Mo” (1991), “My Other Woman” (1990), “Kapag Napagod Ang Puso” (1988), “Ganito kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon” (1976), and “Tinimbang ka Ngunit Kulang” (1974). OctoArts Films, which was organized only in 1991, is not new in fielding a prestigeous and excellent entry in a film festival. It’s “Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal,” starring Lea Salonga, AGa Muhlach and Ariel Rivera, received several major awards in the 1992 Metro Manila Film Festival, and grossed an unprecedented revenue of more than 30 million in Metro Manila along…” – Maritoni Fernandez, Manila Standard, 15 June 1993 (READ MORE)

Ate Vi Goes To Batangas – “…What does the “Star for All Seasons” Ms. Vilma Santos do when she is not in front of the camer? Find out and take a trip with Ate Vi as she brings you to Batangas in her role as Mrs. Ralph Recto, this friday at 7:00 p.m. on GMA. Viewers can also catch the lively one-on-one interview of Ms. Santos with Mr. Joe Quirino. SExy actress Carmi Martin will do an exciting opening number, followed by an array of stars headed by Techie Agbayani, Dennis Padilla, Gellie de Belen, Joey Palomar, IC Mendoza and The Art Start Band. Tonight’s co-host are William Martinez and Miguel Rodriguez…” – Manila Standard, 02 May 2013 (READ MORE)

Meng Fei’s son makes his mark in “Hardman” – “Before the legendary Bruce Lee became popular, Meng Fei was considered a martial arts superstar. He made numerous films mostly capitalizing on his kung fu expertise and the most successfull of them were the series King Boxer. Hir archrival during that time was Wang Yu, well-loved for his acrobatic swordmarship. At present, however, Meng Fei is simply known as the extranged husband of our very own Elizabeth Oropesa. But did you know that Meng Fei is being rumored to have a son from another woman? he looks like him and fights like him. That’s why its no wonder that movie producers tried to convince him to become an action star now that his alleged father is not as active as he used to be. After all, he is an expert in both kung fu and kickboxing. The young man is named Meng Fei Jr. who is launched to stardom in Golden Films’ release of Hardman, an action-packed movie filled with hard hitting encounters, death-defying stunts and massive gunplays. He plays the title role of a “bad boy” who changed his habits, used his fighting skills against a notorious syndicate and risked his life of the love of a woman. Harman features Miss Teen Hong Kong Helen Yu. The movie also stars Johnny Chiu and Sibelle Wang.” – Ester G. Dipasupli, Manila Standard, 16 Sep 1994 p22 (READ MORE)

Defining Moments – “…Other scoops are spectacular in terms of their instant impact or how they led to defining moments in Philippine history. An example of a high-impact scoop was the Dolzura Cortez story by Ceres Doyo in 1992. On the other hand, a February 2001 story on the last days of the Estrada administration, as reported by then Executive Secretary Edgardo Angara, was an example of a scoop that changed the course of our history. Cortez was the first Filipino with full-blown Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) to come out and tell her story. Past interviews with Filipinos afflicted with AIDS had been on condition that no names were mentioned and no photographs were taken. Cortez not only allowed the publication of her name but also her photograph. She also gave the Inquirer a photograph of herself before she got AIDS. Her before-and-after-AIDS pictures were revealing?they showed the readers how ravaging the disease could be. Cortez’s story serialized from Aug. 31 to Sept, 3, 1992, gave AIDS a “name and face.” It got tremendous response from readers and helped raise awareness of the disease. Doyo also won a number of awards and a full-length movie was produced on Cortez’s life….” – Lawrence de Guzman, Minerva Generalao, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 29 Nov 2010 (READ MORE)

Amsterdam screens Filipino AIDS films – “The Asian Cinema Centre of the University of Amsterdam will screen this January Filipino-made films on AIDS during the international film festival entitled “Focus on AIDS in Asia.” Scheduled for screening are: “Dahil Mahal Kita, The Dolzura Cortez Story,” “Poison Blood” and “A+, AIDS Education in a Positive Light.” An OctoArts production, Dahil Mahal Kita is the first Filipino full-lenght feature film to tackle the delicate issue of AIDS. The film tells the story of Dolzura Cortez, a person with AIDS who came out through interviews with columnist Ceres Doyo. The role of Cortez won for veteran actress Vilma Santos several acting awards…” – Manila Standard, 04 January 1995, p23 (READ MORE)

A Graceful exit for Vilma – “There is one star who knows how to time her exit – Vilma Santos. Vilma must have wise counsel and also the ability to shift career gears in the right direction. It was a tearful goodbye to Vilma, the weekly TV show she nurtured for 15 long years, but it was the way it should be. The show, if we have to be frank (Aminin!) was starting to show signs of fatigue. It was the type of show that should be vibrant and exulberant all the while. And Vilma herself was starting to show wear and tear. She was at that age when it was already ridiculous to dance and prance on stage every Friday of your life. Her stature also as a politician’s wife made it more unsettling to say the least. Therefore, she made the right decision. Among other things, it also saves Channel 7 and her staff those long hours of cracking their heads on what to do next. As announced, Vilma and husband Ralph Recto will go back to the US. Congressman Ralph is taking a course in a US university there and Vilma, just plain housewife for a month, will accompany him. My guess is that they will have medical authorities help in their desire to have a baby. That cannot be done here. Besides, the biological clock is ticking fast for Vi and it is now or never. She should go for it while there’s still time. Artificial insemination is now an easy process and a lot of childless couples have used it. Remember when Sophia Loren was having that problem. She had to stay prone in a bed in Switzerland so as not to disturb the fetus inside her. All for Ralph, Vilma says. But most of all for her too. Pregnant or not, she is set to come back here after one month. Her next project will be a dramatic series like the Nora Aunor drama series that will soon start. This is just the right vehicle for Vilma now. No more dancing and being thrown up in the air for her. Thank heavens she had the sense to quit on time…” – Norma Japitana, Manila Standard, 09 August 1995, p23 (READ MORE)

Song For The Homeless – “…Musical theater actor and singer Cocoy Laurel topbills a benefit concert for the homeless on June 22 at the main theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Joining him onstage are sister Iwi and nieces Denise Laurel and Nicole Asensio. The show will alse serve as a thanksgiving concert for Cocoy who recently went through a complicated medical procedure at the Medical City in Pasig. “He was complaining of excruciating stomach pain so we brought him to the hospital. There was too much acid that caused some linings in his intestines to burst. He stayed at the ICU for two days, but thank God, he’s well now, and ready to sing again,” shares his mother Celia Diaz-Laurel who has always supported Cocoy’s penchant for things artistic and spiritual. Cocoy’s vast exposure and experience in the performing arts landed him significant roles in Cameron MacKintosh’s West End and Australian production of Miss Saigon where he portrayed the Vietnamese Commissar and the male lead role of The Engineer. He also used to be a sought-after multimedia artist in the seventies, having been paired with superstars like Nora in the unforgettable romantic flick, “Lollipos and Roses at Burong Talangka.” The concert, which will have Professor Rodel Colmenar conducting a 42-piece orchestra, will also serve as the world premiere of Cocoy’s unpublished works and compositions as a songwriter, including his version of The Lord’s Prayer, which he recorded at the Vatican Recording station in Rome. He gave this song as a personal gift to the late Pope John Paul II in 1987…To benefit from the concert is the Gawad Kalinga – Doy Laurel Village in Balete, Batangas. The ongoing project will give shelter to 80 poor and homeless families…” – The Manila Times, 06 June 2007 pC1 (READ MORE)

Consumer Products – “…Film actors are consumer products and each one needs distinctive star or screen imagefor a profitable market position. Packaging, therefore, is of utmost importance and oftentimes, the package imprisons. Rare are the instances when a star successfully negotiates for a change of image, for that is tantamount to changing a consumer product’s uniqueness – best concretized in its package – in a sea of similar products vying for buyer’s attention. Yet for some, the decision to stick to an image or package proves wise, for it means longevity. The personality behind the image may remain imprisoned but nonetheless, some of them evolveto higher forms of respectability and influenceas cultural icons. Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) and Dolphy are premiere examples; so are Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos. Indeed, film stars are a curious lot. From the time of their construction until they reach the staturef revered cultural icons, they are an embodiment of contradictions. On the one hand, they are en embodiment of contradictions. On the one hand, they are consumer products that are package and sold along with their films; on the other hand they are product endorser, selling their own films as they do other consumer products, the bigger ones among them, moreover, capable of adding unto themsleves viability or success of future film procucts manufatured in answer to the needs their manufaturer-producers, who in turn responds to the demands and specifications of their consumers the movie going public; at another, they are power-wielder that command individual as well as public adulation and identification…” – Johven Velasco, The Manila Times, 04 Sep 2007, pC1 (READ MORE)

Cultural Icons – “…A cinema/cultural icon is one through whose works and screen persona or lifestyle represents certain or ideological values of his/her time and as such commands on the one hand, awe, admiration and adulation, and inspiration, and on the other, identification or emulation. To mention some: FPJ is “Ang Panday,” the mythical hero who will redeem his people from the clutches of evil forces; Joseph Estrada is “Geron Busabos,” one of the masses who will lead his class from oppression to liberation; Dolphy is “Jill” and “Pacifica Falayfay,” the lovable cross-dresser who eventually regains machismo…Nora Aunor is “Elsa”of Himala, a small, insignificant-looking lass from an obcure town at first glance but possessing tremendous power of persuassion and inspiration. Vilma Santos is the Liberated, working woman of the 1980s-90s in the person of the kind-hearted mistress with wifely martyr complex of Relasyon or the working wife of Broken Marriage, who has to balance the demands of her home and those of her profession…A few things have to be clarified at this point. The person behind the star does not necessarily have to embody, in real life, the qualities ascribed to him or to his screen persona. But this is of small consequence because the business of star imaging has little to do with reality. Much of is has to do with appearances the representation of an absense or what is not really there. Then, too, the star image has many meanings to the star, and in particular meaning may be valid only for a particular time…Finally, while most of the icons have been typecast in their roles for the most part of their career and therefore imprisoned in their images, a few would successfully negotiated for more variety. Vilma Santos remain an outstanding example in that several times, she successfully negotiated for some change in her image, thereby portraying a variety of roles and ably responding to the ideological needs of the times…” – Johven Velasco, The Manila Times, 04 Sep 2007, pC1 (READ MORE)

Spotlight on Vilma – “…Despite the starès showbiz commitments and in-demand status, Vilma rearranged her priorities so she would not let the people of Lipa down. By the time she finished her course, she was so hungry for education that she told me she regretted that it was over too soon, and wished to learn more. Vilma has since became a voracious reader. It also helps that she has a husband like Ralph to help her out. A recent visit to Lipa told me that she did learn more. The city is teeming with commercial establishments and the streets are so clean you could lie down on them. When we saw Vi at the municipal hall, I saw her talking to some of her staff, discussing the dayès agenda. After the meeting, she immediately went to greet us saying, “Para ‘tong shooting, a!” If you are still unclear as to who Vilma Santos-Recto is, then allow me:

Fighter – Vilma is a fighter and will never allow anyone to step on her. And when she loses, she’s the type who says. “I’ll do better next time” and doubles her efforts. She’s also the type of person who doesn’t want to get into anything she’s not knowledgeable about. As an achiever, Vilma sacrifices big in order to gain big. Being the type who’s maselan magbuntis, for example, she forced herself to stay in bed for months so she could bear Ralph’s son. As a mayor, Vilma stays in Lipa during the weekdays to serve her constituents. On weekends, she commutes back to Manila to spend time with her kids (or sometimes they go to Lipa to visit her). Though some of her detractors spread rumors that she rarely goes to Lipa, I think otherwise. She would never compromise the Lipeños (just look at Lipa and you’ll know). Speaking of motherhood, do you know that Vilma is one great mom? She’s the type who checks on her kids no matter how busy she is. Remember the commercial she did when she called her son by phone? That’s Vilma in real life! She carefully plans her shooting days so she can still spend time with her kids.

Love – In jest she tells me, “I’ll be the most despised mother-in-law!” because she knows the love and care she showers her children with are hard to approximate by anyone. The last time we talked, I asked Vi if she plans to run for senator. As usual, Vi gave a noncommittal answer, saying that she is still has so much more to do for the Lipeños. But I think Vilma will not stay mayor forever. Her track record shows that like Hillary Clinton, she’s ready to go higher up the ladder when she proper time comes. And when she does, I have a feeling Vi will make sure she’ll deserve it. To Mayor Vi and the people of Lipa, congratulations. On a scale of one to 10, Mayor Vilma Santosis a nine in my book!…” – Inday Badiday, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 02 Dec 2000 (READ MORE)

Remarkable Child Star – “Young and cute Vilma Santos is one of the few child stars who have hit the screen with continued success. Although not as well-publicized as the adult stars, she is gaining popularity with lot of fans who recognize her warm personality and talent. Her successful debut in Sampaguita Pictures’ Trusdis Liit gave her more movie offers. Vilma, who just turned 13 last Nov. 3, has been in the movies for three years and already has 16 pictures to her credit. A talented youngster, she often steals the spotlight from her senior colleagues. In Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel, Anak Ang Iyong Ina, and many other films, she was a standout in tear-jearking scenes. As a result, she is always in demand for such roles. Despite her success, Vilma remains unaffected as a child. At the St. mary’s Academy where she is a six-grader, she has more than her share of friends not because she is a celebrity but because of her natural chumminess. In fact, she is so fond of her friends that their house on Lunas St in La Loma, Quezon City is often filled with them. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amado Santos, do not discourage her gregariousness and instead look upon it as part of her developing personality.

Bright Future – One of Vilma’s ambitions is to take up fine arts – that is, if the movies wouldn’t completely claim her in the future. Dr. Jose R. Perez has made a tempting offer to sign her to a contract with Sampaguita and VP Pictures when she reaches the age of 14, that is, one year from now. Vilma’s movie commitments don’t prevent her from being a good student. She could have been easily way above average if only her shooting schedules sometimes do not prevent her from attending her classes. “Doing two tasksat the same time gave me a hard time at the beginning but I’ve adjusted to it now,” said this youngster who still goes for lollipops, ice cream, toys, and play. Vilma, who spends her leisure hours listening to radio dramas, dancing and playing with her three other sisters, will be seen in her coming films, Sigaw Ng Batingaw of Argo Productions. – Julio F. Silverio, The Weekly Nation, 31 December 1965, reposted at Pelikula Atbp blog (READ MORE)

Hibiscus Rosasinensis – “…Vilma Santos, acclaimed as moviedom’s “Star for All Seasons,” has been immortalized in “another world”. It is the world of floriculture, or the art and science of growing and propagating flowers and other ornamentals. Not long ago, a hybrid gumamela(scientific name: Hibiscus Rosasinensis) was launched by the University of the Philippines-Institute of Plant Breeding (UPLB-IPB) in honor of the talented, multi-awarded actress. Named “Hibiscus rosasinensis:Star for All Seasons,” the Vilma gumamela is the first in IPB’s new batch of Hibiscus hybrids, the Celebrity Star series, to be named after veteran and accomplished Filipino actresses. A hybrid is the product of crossing of two plants with superior qualities. These superior qualities of both parents are passed on to the seed and results in a phenomenon called “hybrid vigor” or “heterosis.” The Hibiscus hybrids in the celebrity star series were selected from the 3,000 progeny seedlings from the mass hybridization conducted in 1998, reported Dr. Candida Adalla, the first woman to become dean of the UPLB College of Agriculture since it was founded on the foothills of legendary Mt. Makiling in 1909. Dr. Adalla and noted plant breeder, Reynold Pimentel presented Hibiscus Rosasinensis – Star for All Seasons plant to Mayor Vilma Santos during the Lipa City (Batangas) 56th Foundation Day celebration last Aug 25. The actress-mayor was ecstatic in thanking UP Los Banos for giving her that honor and privilege. In her extemporaneous speech, the petite actress-politician, in jest, cited the plant’s “semi-dwarf” character, saying that she would be eternally grateful for UPLB’s gesture of naming a gumamela hybrid after her. …” – E Nadurata, 25 Aug 1998 (READ MORE)

Tabla sa Urian – “…Hindi Mas kumpleto ang malalaking bituin mula sa pinilakang-tabing nung gabi ng 13th Gawad Urian, maituturing pa ring well-attended ang nasabing parangal. Iba nga e, basta’t present sina Nora Aunor at Vilma Santos, matatakpan na ang lahat ng kakulangan. Sa dalawa pa lamang, nagkakagulo na ang mga tao kung sino sa kanila ang tatanghaling “Reyna ng Gabi.” Bangayan at palakasan ng tiliang labanan ng Noranians at Vilmanians. Nakuntento lamang ang mga ito nang tanghaling Best Actress kapwa ang kanilang mga idolo. Kabado ang lahat bago pa lamang ihayag ang nasabing titulo. Inaasahan pa nga ng marami na ang Star for All Seasons ang mananalo dahil pumuwesto na agad ang mga photographers sa harap ni Vi sa pag-aakalang siya nga ang mananalo. Nagulat na lamang ang lahat nang i-annouce na tie sila ni Guy. Parang nagkakahiyaan pa sina Nora at Vilma kung sinong mauunang umakyat sa stage, at kung sino ang mauunang magsalita. “Maraming salamat po sa inyong paniniwala sa aking kakayahan, isa na naman po itong inspirasyon,” ayon kay Vi. “Maraming salamat sa inyong paniniwala sa mga tunay na kaibigan na patuloy na nagpapatawad, umiintindi at naging inspirasyon sa aking pamilya sa aking mga anak.” maluha-luhang sabi naman ni Guy. “Mas masarap pala ang feeling ng pangalawa,”say naman ng tinanghal na Best supporting Actor na si Daniel Fernando na halos nagtagal din sa stage dahil sa dami ng pinasalamatan. Man of few words Ishmael Bernal uttered “Maraming Salamat po!” Binigyan buhay ng magagandang production numbers ang gabi ng parangal, walang itulak kabigin sa mga performances, particular ang bilang nina Cynthia Patag at Nolyn Cabahog. Kasama ang men ang Musicsa kanilang awiting pilipino na ginawang klasikal. Pati na ang grupo ni Dulce, Lilet, Rachel Alejandro kasama sina John Lesaca at ang UP Guitar Ensemble…” – Un-name source, posted at Facebook of Mike Herrera

In Appreciation of Mars Ravelo

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Mars Ravelo (born October 9, 1916 in Tanza, Cavite, Philippines – September 12, 1988) was a Filipino graphic novelist who created the characters Darna, Dyesebel, Captain Barbell, Lastikman, Bondying, Varga, Wanted: Perfect Mother, Hiwaga, Maruja, Mariposa, Roberta, Rita, Buhay Pilipino, Jack and Jill, Flash Bomba, Tiny Tony, and Dragonna among others. He started out as a cartoonist, then as a writer, and later on as editor -in- chief for two publications houses and for several film companies. He later established his own company, RAR. Ravelo created the characters of Darna the super heroine, Dyesebel the love-lorn mermaid, and Captain Barbel the super hero, Facifica Falayfay, and the duo of Jack & Jill. He also created the drama about a young orphaned girl named Roberta for Sampaguita Pictures. Ravelo wrote the movie adaptation of Alicia Vergel’s Basahang Ginto. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

Style of Drawing – “…In my interviews, Ravelo revealed that “sa abot ng natatandaan ko” (as far as I can remember), his first published works were “Ponchong” and “Bemboy.” And had not Liwayway magazine turned him down on his Varga (Darna’s predecessor character), history would have put Darna’s origin inside Liwayway’s pages instead of Bulaklak, and she would have been the Philippines’ first komiks superhero (Yes, at least one-a-half years ahead of Wonder Woman’s first comics appearance!)…Varga is another casing point of Ravelo’s early style of drawing. True to his accounts, Varga’s illustration is a cross between McManus and Fleischer. And based on his story, the timeline of Varga should be put around 1939 and not 1947. To quote Ravelo: “Alam mo naisip kong gawin yung Varga para itapat kay Superman. Lalake yung sa mga Amerikano, babae yung sa atin. Di ba ayos?” (You know I thought of creating Varga as a counterpart of Superman. Male on the part of the Americans, female on our part. Isn’t that okay?). It can also be noted that Varga was a character archived twice. By some twist of circumstance, the name Varga became the ownership of Bulaklak magazine (during those times, intellectual property right is not yet in effect) and when Ravelo left the publication in 1949 after a falling out with its editor, Varga stayed behind. Ravelo took Varga’s personality, revised her costume, and brought her to Pilipino Komiks, and renamed the character Darna. For more than six decades the character Varga was lost, never again to be seen until ABS-CBN Channel 2 made it into a TV series which started on August 2, 2008. The character portrayed by Mariel Rodriguez, however, was very different from the original creation of Ravelo. The superheroine’s costume was change, as well as her origin and beginning. The name of her alter ego was also change – from Narda to Olga…” – Ernee Lawagan (READ MORE)

Number One Janitor – “…Only a very few know that Mars is Marcial, but 20,000,000 komiks readers will swear that Ravelo is one of the greatest things that ever happened to the local komiks industry. For his were the ideas and innovations that defied what were then regarded as “sacred institutions” in the profession and influenced the course of the komiks industry in the Philippines. Oddly enough, Ravelo’s initial foray into the local komiks field was for a man of lesser guts extremely discouraging. It would have been more than enough for the average neophyte to call it quits. But Ravelo is made of the stuff that makes champions. The young (33) Ravelo that confidently presented his first cartoon strip to a vernacular magazine editor that fine day in 1949 was already a “fighter”. He was then drifting from one low-paying menial job to another but even then, his innate desire to excel was evident. When he was a janitor, he says, he was “number one janitor”. He was also to say many years later in a magazine interview that he became “number one” in the komiks field because “I’ve always hated to be number two!” At that time, he already knew that he could write and draw well – as a matter of fact, “better than most of those already in the komiks profession.” But the magazine editor apparently did not think so; one quick glance at the comic strip presented by Ravelo and he pronounced the death sentence: “Hindi pa puwede!” (Not good enough)….” – Komiklopedia (READ MORE)

Mass Culture – “…To understand Darna is to understand Filipino mass culture. Created in 1949 by Mars Ravelo, Darna has zoomed in and out of the imagination of three generation of Filipinos. Darna, who is the local hybrid version of Wonder Woman and Supergirl first appeared in the Pilipino Komiks in the late 40’s. Nestor Redondo, considered by many in his profession as one of the unsung heroes of Filipino illustrations, gave graphic life to the original Filipina libber then named Varga. Over the years Darna has appeared and re-appeared in so many episodes, that Ravelo himself forgets the exact number, to do battle against a wide and weird array of baddies, from Valentina who sports a Medusa-like coiffure and the Babaeng Lawin to the impakta and engkantados, creatures unique to the Filipino’s supernatural hierarchy. Darna symbolizes the two principal characteristics of our mass culture: the supernatural powers that allows a great number of people to engage in never ending fights of fantasy and the dormant militance, the latent commitment to fight injustice wherever it can be found. But above all, Darna is the concrete expression of the cultural schizophrenia that besets us. The superheroine’s creater, Mars Ravelo, really admits that it was the prevalence of a colonial mentality among many readers that compelled him to create a comic strip hero that approximated the stature and powers of the then most popular American heroes, Wonder Woman and Supergirl. Ravelo says, “Naisip ko noon, gayong sikat sina Wonder Woman at Supergirl, bakit hindi ako gumawa ng isang karakter na may mga powers na katulad ng mga ito at ilagay sa situwasyong Pilipino.” Indeed this tendency to go along with trends set in America was and still is true for many comics strip writers. Ravelo, however, had more than mere imitation and lumping into the superhero bandwagon in mind. Ravelo goes on, “Naiisip ko kasi noon since nadito na rin lang yang colonial mentality why not work around it. Kaya naman kung mapapansin nin’yo I try to inject certain amount of relevance to Darna’s adventures. For one thing she talks, thinks, and feels in the vernacular. She exhibits idiosyncrasies that are distinctly Filipino and she fights characters that are unique to the Filipino milieu. Besides the kinds of conflict that she gets involved in and the caused she fights for are those that masses themselves can identify with.” Like all superheroes, however, Darna is one of the best examples of escapist entertainment. Even Ravelo admits to this when he says, “I don’t like writing fantasy. Pero anong magagawa ko? I personally would like to write about real, down-to-earth characters and situations. But the masses just won’t but that! Kasi, kahit na mataas nga ang literacy level ng mga Pilipino alam natin na functional literacy lang ito. Huwag lang masabing ‘no read no write…” – Bill Davidson, TV Times March 13 – 19 1977

Darna is Not a ‘Rip-off” of Wonder Woman – “…Because of the character’s immense popularity, several other studios would license the character and produce more Darna movies throughout the next several decades. After Rosa Del Rosario, Vilma Santos (who first played Darna in 1973’s “Lipad, Darna, Lipad”) would be the most well known and the most in demand to play the character. She starred in a total of 4 Darna movies. Her 4th and final one being in 1980. For years after that, no more Darna movies were produced…” – Raffy Arcega, Comic Book Movie (READ MORE)

Mars Ravelo and Vilma Santos

Ging is a poignant story of a poor gifted girl, trying to make both ends meet by singing and dancing in crowded streets and cafeterias. – Komiklopedia

“…Even at the early age, it was clear that she was already brimming with talent. Vilma, apparently, was born into this world to perform, entertain and make people happy. She was utterly convincing in the dramatic scenes and thoroughly graceful in her musical numbers. Listang-lista – as we’d say in the vernacular. Even then, she was already living up to her showbiz title of “Star for All Seasons” because her performance in “Ging” is not only brilliant, but timeless as well…” – Butch Francisco, People’s Journal 04 March 1999 (READ MORE)

Trudis Liit (lit. Little Trudis) is a Philippine drama produced by GMA Network, and part of that station’s Sine Novela series. Trudis Liit marks the 21st and final installment of the Sine Novela series based on the works by Mars Ravelo. Like all Sine Novela installments, Trudis Liit is based on a movie; this one made in 1963, starring Lolita Rodriguez, Luis Gonzales, Bella Flores and Vilma Santos. – Wikipedia

“…Makulit na ako no’ng time na ‘yon! So, anyway, tinawag ako ni Doc Perez [of Sampaguita Pictures] at that time. Pinaarte ako. Nag-adlib-adlib pa ako. Nakuha naman ako. So, when I started, dalawa kaagad ang pelikula ko—Trudis Liit at Anak, Ang Iyong Ina [1963]. Ang naaalala ko lang tungkol sa maaga kong pagpasok sa pag-aartista, parang laro lang sa akin iyon. Parang naglalaro lang ako noon kaya hindi trabaho sa akin iyon, e. So, very-very memorable sa akin iyon. At saka no’ng Trudis Liit, every lunch, lagi akong may apple. Lagi akong may chicken. Every lunch talaga ‘yon…” – Vilma Santos (READ MORE)

Darna is a fictional character and Filipino comics superheroine created by writer Mars Ravelo and artist Nestor Redondo. In her more popular incarnations, she is a deceased warrior from another planet manifesting herself through a girl from Earth, named Narda. She first appeared in Pilipino Komiks #77 (May 13, 1950). Darna is a retooling of Ravelo’s earlier character Varga, whose stories he wrote and illustrated himself. She first appeared in Bulaklak Magazine, Volume 4, #17 (July 23, 1947). Ravelo left Bulaklak due to differences with the editors. – Wikipedia

“…Ding, ang bato!” yells Narda, the adolescent country lass, to her younger brother. Ding obligingly hands over a shiny pebble which Narda swallows to turn herself into the vivacious super-vixen, Darna. Mars Ravelo’s superheroine, clad in crimson bikinis and knee-high stiletto boots, may perhaps be the most famous local fantasy character given life on the silver screen. Though not actually considered a career-defining role, portraying Darna is, nonetheless, highly-coveted. Darna has been portrayed by no less than nine actress in 12 feature films. Rosa del Rosario first wore the scarlet two piece in May 1951. She reprised the role after three months. Liza Moreno, Eva Montes and Gina Pareno followed her. The inter-galactic pebble found its way to Vilma Santos’ throat in 1973 via the flick “Lipad, Darna, Lipad!” Santos, now a two-term mayor of Lipa City in Batangas, is probably the most popular Darna, with a total of four movies in a span of seven years…” – Armin Adina, Philippine Daily Inquirer, June 06, 2003 (READ MORE)

Dyesebel is a popular mermaid character in the Philippines. The comic book character was originally conceived by the Filipino comic book illustrator, Mars Ravelo. Dyesebel is a prominent character in Philippine cinema and television. – Wikipedia

“…In the 1973 Dyesebel movie, Dyesebel lives in an undersea kingdom of mermaids far from the land of humans because the humans believe that the mermaids are the cause of misfortune. Dyesebel fell in love with a male human being. In order to be with the man that she likes, she swore to find a way to be transformed into a female human being. In the movie, “Si Dyesebel at Ang Mahiwagang Kabibe,” the role of Dyesebel was played by Vilma Santos and Fredo was played by Romeo Miranda…” (READ MORE)

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