Print Media Covers (1960-70s)

Posted on February 1, 2012 by @ffv Standard

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COVERS - Weekly Movie Specials Agosto 30 1975

COVER - June 18 1972 Phil Sunday Express

COVERS - Pilipino Reporter - Nora and Pip with Vi and Bot background

COVERS - Romances and True Confessions - Vi with Celia and Helen

COVERS - Modern Romances Mag Nov 20 1977

COVERS - 1970S Sixteen Magazine 1973 Jun

COVERS - 1970S Romantic Magazine 1979 Jul

COVERS - 1970S Romantic Magazine 1974 Apr

COVERS - Manila Times’ Sunday magazine 1967

COVERS - 1970S Movie King Showbiz 1973 Jul

#VilmaSantos, #Vi, #VilmaSantosRecto, #magazinecovers

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All About Milk

Posted on January 22, 2012 by @ffv Standard

one milk critic “IS Vilma aware that her victims are infants? She is a detriment to the nutrition of infants. Paid to promote Bear Brand, she continues to deceive mothers on the differences between this manufacturer’s milk of 30 years ago, to what Vilma now erroneously calls in her ads “milk.” Globally, when an adulterant is added to milk, it can no longer be called “milk.”…What Vilma calls milk has had its butterfat removed. Butterfat is milk’s most needed by infants. With its butterfat removed, and high-saturate palm oil added, Vilma is promoting milk that is legally no longer milk, not good enough for infants…Bear Brand sold good pure milk 30 years ago. Their technologists learned to remove the good expensive nutrients from pure milk, and replace it with adulterants like palm oil which is not good for infants or adults. Palm oil contains too much saturate which turns to cholesterol…There are products in the supermarkets not advertised to extremes, and do not deceive. I buy an Australian brand called “___” Milk Powder….” (Vilma’s adulterated milk)

when an adulterant is added to milk, it can no longer be called “milk” – Well, our milk critic is correct. When you adulterated a milk, its no longer “milk.” One question though, where was her proof? We did a brief digging and we cannot find anything via internet of any news, articles or research about Bear Brand substituting any adulterant to their powder milk. What we found was the actual ingredients in their product. Here is the link: Nutrient Disclosure infant formula. Here is the nutritional fact link. A newspaper article described Bear Brand Powdered Milk Drink: “rich in calcium, which is important in building strong bones and teeth. It is recommended for children to be consistent in drinking milk as bone growth is at its highest during childhood up to the teenage years.” (Bear Brand helps address malnutrition problems)

butterfat removed and high-saturate palm oil added – Again our critic did NOT mentioned where is she getting this info. Our research though proves some contradiction in our critic’s assertions. First, some additives to powder milk, for example, vegetable oil, zinc, or iodine are not necessarily bad for infants consumption. Second, butterfat milk are not as prestine as what our critics’ arguments, for instance, a pure cow’s milk with butterfat may be hard for an infants to digest. About saturated fat in milk, first, raw milk already contained saturated fats and secondly, not all saturated fats are bad or “cholesterolemic.”.

she is paid to push/deceive mother on children’s milk consumption, lack knowledge on “milk terminology” – Once again, no proof. We discovered something though, the company who sells this product, Nestle, made an effort to inform the public about one of their product. They clearly indicated in BOLD letters that: “Bear Brand Evaporated Milk_375ml contains only 1/4 the fat of cream. is “NOT SUITABLE AS A COMPLETE MILK FOOD FOR INFANTS.” Clearly, this is not the kind of company who would deceive their customers. Which can be also said to their endorser, Vilma Santos Recto. I mean would a seasoned politician gamble her reputation for a defected product? She may not look like your typical politician but she is well informed and connected. Not the type who would gamble their names since she did this endorsement back in 2008 before her reelection bid in 2010. Lastly, with all these righteous “for the sake of our children” arguments, our milk critic ended her article by endorsing an Australian milk product which in our opinion was quite hypocritical. Clearly, this is another propaganda news.

helps to address local micronutrient deficiencies – “…Bear Brand launched a powdered milk in 2009 that helps to address local micronutrient deficiencies through iron, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin C fortification. Additionally, it is the only brand in the Philippines with added vitamin C and zinc, both of which are required for normal function of the immune system. The milk is offered in an affordable price (equivalent to CHF 0.20) and is widely available in traditional neighbourhood stores…” (Fortified Milk Powder)

advocacy – “We want to remind mothers to bring back the habit of drinking milk. The health of our children is most important and should be our priority,” Santos-Recto said…“For years we’ve been touching the lives of so many, and we’re happy that our advocacy has become an extra arm for all parents whose dream is to give their children a better future, and for all schoolchildren who deserve a better life,” said Eugene David, business executive manager for dairy health and nutrition solutions for Nestlé Philippines. This year the Laki sa Gatas advocacy team is eyeing several more provinces for its series of nutrition lectures and activities like Bataan, Aurora, Nueva Vizcaya and Zamboanga. It aims to cover more than 700,000 students and more than 400,000 parents…” (Nestlé pushes 2 glasses of milk daily for school kids)

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News Articles Links (2011)

Posted on January 8, 2012 by @ffv Standard

Governor Vilma Santos on the relationship of her son Luis Manzano with Jennylyn Marcado: “Huwag nating pangunahan na baka ikakasal na ‘yan o magbubuntis…let them enjoy the relationship.” – By Ruben Marasigan, PEP, Dec 10, 2011 – Naroon si Luis bilang host kasama si Ruffa Gutierrez, samantalang si Jennylyn naman, kasama sina Ogie Alcasid, Jean Garcia, at ilan pang celebrities ay mga judges naman para sa kompetisyon. Hindi maitago ang sweetness sa isa’t isa nina Luis at Jennylyn kahit pa alam nilang ang daming taong nakamasid sa kanilang dalawa nang gabing iyon. At mukha namang masaya si Batangas Governor Vilma Santos para sa kanyang anak na si Luis at girlfriend nga nito na si Jennylyn. READ MORE

Risk-taking keeps Vilma Santos on her toes – By: Rito P. Asilo, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Dec 10, 2011 | – There are good reasons why Vilma Santos is Tinseltown’s Star for All Seasons. Her prodigious stint as Batangas’ first female governor may no longer allow her to act for the cameras as often as she used to — but, Ate Vi’s occasional forays into acting still draw crowds, impress critics and win awards, as was the case with 2009’s “In My Life.” So, we expect nothing less from Chito Roño’s upcoming chiller, “The Healing,” the actress’ first movie with Kim Chiu. READ MORE

Vilma introduces Jennylyn as son’s GF – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Dec 08, 2011 – Star for All Seasons and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos formally introduced the girlfriend of her son, Luis Manzano, to the people of Batangas on Wednesday. For the first time, Santos publicly acknowledged actress Jennylyn Mercado as her son’s girlfriend during the commemoration of Batangas’ founding anniversary held at the town of Calaca. READ MORE

Batangas Ala Eh! Festival Opens at Calaca – By Rowena M. Diocton, Asia Journal, Dec 4, 2011 – “This year, we are bringing Ala Eh! Festival to the Municipality of Calaca (District 1) because we want to let more Batangueños to get involved in the fiesta atmosphere through the many activities that will fill everyone’s interests,” says Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto. READ MORE

Season’s most inspiring series wraps up its storytelling – By Nestor U. Torre, Inquirere, Nov 30, 2011 – After its 100 titular telecasting days, “100 Days To Heaven” finally wrapped up its storytelling with a big bang in terms of guest star value — no less than Susan Roces and Vilma Santos figured in its concluding episodes. READ MORE

Philippine Air Force tagged in foiled abduction of fisherfolk leader in Batangas – By Ina Alleco R. Silverio, Bulatlat, Nov 24, 2011 – “Governor Santos should step in and investigate this matter. As the highest-ranking local official, she has the political and moral obligation to protect her citizens against human rights violations as perpetrated by elements of the military,” Hicap said. He also said Santos should also take a stand against the implementation of Oplan Bayanihan in the region. READ MORE

Vilma Santos all praises for 100 Days – By The Philippine Star, Nov 22, 2011 – Aside from following the happenings in the lives of Madam Anna Manalastas (Coney Reyes/Xyriel Manabat) and daughter Sophia (Jodi Santamaria), viewers were hooked in the finale week to watch out for the guest appearance of some of the biggest Kapamilya stars which recently included Jake Cuenca as the young “Tagasundo,” Coco Martin as the young “Tagabantay” and Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos as “Tagabantay.” READ MORE

What Ate Vi gave me on her birthday holiday – By: Raymund Isaac, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Nov 19, 2011 – I was excited to see a good friend of mine in Malaysia to celebrate her birthday with her family, and to celebrate Ate Aida’s birthday, too. The only time I have been to Malaysia was on a cruise via Star Cruises, passing through Penang. So finally a trip to see Kuala Lumpur and Genting became a reality. Even if I was spending only two nights with the Vilma Santos, I welcomed the chance, and the break from the stress of Manila. READ MORE

Xyriel flattered with Vilma Santos’ praise – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Nov 19, 2011 – Child actress Xyriel Manabat said she feels flattered to know that she was able to impress the Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos with her acting prowess. In an interview aired on “Bandila” on Friday, Manabat said, “Masaya po ako, kasi po meron po akong kasi meron po akong, meron pong isang sobrang galing na artista na nagkakagusto sa akin.” READ MORE

Vilma Santos performs in ‘100 Days to Heaven’ finale – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Nov 15, 2011 – Star for all Seasons and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos is set to play an important role in the grand finale of the ABS-CBN television series “100 Days to Heaven.” Santos said she’s thrilled to be a part of the top-rated prime time television show. READ MORE

Guess what birthday gift Ralph gave to Vi – By Ricardo F. Lo, The Philippine Star, Nov 15, 2011 – Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos took a two-week leave from work to spend her 58th birthday with family (husband, Sen. Ralph Recto, and son Ryan Christian; but minus Luis who was stuck at work) and friends, first in Phuket, Thailand (they skipped Bangkok which was threatened by the lingering floods), and then in Malaysia. READ MORE

Vilma Santos in a 1975 Produc AD – By Simon Santos, Video 48, Nov 07, 2011 – Vilma Santos in one of her early commercials endorsing Philips transistor radios in 1975. READ MORE

58 Lessons in Life: Let It Vi! – By Ricky Lo, The Philippine Star, November 06, 2011 – If I were to write the biography of Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos, I would open it when she was around 14, a period when a girl is deemed too old for dolls but too young for guys. I was barely out of college then and Vilma was in her bobby socks stage. I fetched her and her mom, Milagros Santos (now into her mid-80s), from Torres Auto Supply on España St., Sampaloc, Manila, and we took a taxi to Manila Times office on Florentino St. in Sta. Cruz, Manila. Vilma was going to be featured on the cover of Variety, one of the then No. 1 broadsheet’s Sunday magazines, and I was tasked to do the cover story. READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos on proposed signage on Taal Volcano: “To attract [tourists]—iyon ang intensyon. But again, na-misinterpret.” – By Ruben Marasigan, PEP, Oct 22, 2011 – Aware si Governor Vilma Santos sa maingay na kontrobersiya ngayon tungkol sa napabalitang plano niyang paglagay ng ga-higanteng signage na “Batangas” sa isang parte ng Taal Volcano na kasing-laki ng signage na “Hollywood” sa Los Angeles, California. READ MORE

Vilma Santos denies reports that she is not in favor of Jennylyn Mercado, rumored girlfriend of her son Luis Manzano – By Ruben Marasigan, PEP, Oct 22, 2011 – Katatapos lang mag-taping ni Vilma Santos bilang guest star sa top-rating primetime series ng ABS-CBN na 100 Days To Heaven nang dumating sa Kapitolyo ng Batangas kahapon ang PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) at ilang pang movie press. READ MORE

Kim kinakabahan kina Vilma at Janice – By Boy Abunda, Pilipino Star Ngayon, Oct 22, 2011 – Sobrang excited na ni Kim Chiu ngayon sa horror movie na kanyang gagawin na ipalalabas sa susunod na taon. Tatlong taon na ang nakalilipas nang huling gumawa ang young actress ng pelikulang horror. READ MORE

‘Cavite has money but Batangas has beauty’ – By Jerome Balinton, Jocelyn R. Uy, Inquirer, Oct 22, 2011 – This ought to comfort beleaguered Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto: “Cavite has the money but Batangas has the beauty.” The remark was made on Friday by Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles in the course of defending Recto’s much-ridiculed idea of mounting a giant “Batangas” sign on Taal Volcano as a way of claiming it and the lake surrounding it as the province’s own. READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos on proposed Batangas signage on Taal Volcano: “It’s not final yet.” – By Jocelyn Jimenez, Oct 21, 2011 – Isang kontrobersiya ang kinakaharap ngayon ni Governor Vilma Santos matapos batikusin ng ilan ang suhestiyon niya na lagyan ng signage na “Batangas” ang Taal Volcano. READ MORE

Eruption of ridicule greets Batangas signage plan – By Bayani San Diego Jr., Jerome Balinton, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Oct 21, 2011 – It triggered an eruption of ridicule. A plan to erect giant letters on Taal Volcano Island similar to the iconic “Hollywood” sign in Los Angeles, California, drew lava-hot criticism and Internet spoofs on Thursday, mostly directed at its proponent, the award-winning actress and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Hooray for Hollywood’ on Taal Volcano Island – By Jerome Balinton, Inquirer, Oct 20, 2011 – It was something only a movie star could have conceived. Why not put up a towering “Batangas” sign on Taal Volcano island similar to the “Hollywood” sign in Los Angeles, California? The provincial council approved on October 5 a resolution supporting the idea of Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, the award-winning actress, to erect a hard-to-miss landmark and potential tourism draw, according to Vice Governor Mark Leviste II. READ MORE

Vilma not surprised with Luis’ interest in politics – By abs-cbnNEWS.com, Oct 20, 2011 – Batangas governor and actress Vilma Santos said she was not surprised when her son, host-actor Luis Manzano, expressed desire to run for public office in the future. READ MORE

Women left behind – By Norma Japitana, The Philippine Star, Oct 14, 2011 – THEN: July 14, 1989 — 22 years ago. Stars are finding it hard to have a public pose on very private feelings. This is the pain of public women whose men left them. First of all, there is the public hurt, the image cry and then, the very private hurt. READ MORE

No Other Woman stars receive bonus; Direk Ruel Bayani says Anne Curtis has the same spirit as Vilma Santos – By Allan Sancon, PEP, October 10, 2011 – Direk Ruel Bayani: “Because, I’m truly a Vilmanian. Isa akong Vilmarian, when I was an assistant director to Ishmael Bernal, sobra silang close ni Vi, sabi ko sa sarili ko, I would one day how I wish one day find my own Vilma, someone na muse mo. Kami ni Anne kasi magkaibigan, napakadali para sa ‘min mag-communicate. At sinabi ko sa kanya na ‘Anne, Vilma to, Vilma mode tayo!’ Hindi ko dine deny yun, dahil sobrang hanga kay Vilma na wish ko na ma-idirek si Vilma at Anne together in a movie. Pareho kasi sila ng spirit.” READ MORE

Vilma’s multi-faceted life on TV5’s Anggulo – The Philippine Star, October 05, 2011 – Vilma Santos-Recto shares the different facets of her life in tonight’s edition of Anggulo on TV5 and Aksyon TV. READ MORE

Vilma Santos back on the big screen – By Nickie Wang, Manila Standard, Sep 14, 2011 – Seasoned actress and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos lists show business as one of her least priority at the moment. She said that her being a public servant and a mother and a wife are undoubtedly her main concerns. Since most of her time is devoted to being the mother of some two million people of the first class province, it is difficult for her to insert a showbiz engagement in her already busy schedule. READ MORE

Romeo Vasquez: Lover, prankster & star – By Bibsy M. Carballo, The Philippine Star, Sep 11, 2011 – Vilma Santos was another known girlfriend with whom he shot nine pictures. Another one was Alona Alegre with whom he lived in Beverly Hills, California. However, he is best remembered not only for his ways with women but for being a nice person, a good friend, a prankster, a generous individual. And a super affectionate, malambing human being. READ MORE

Moms urged to bring back habit of letting children drink milk – By Karen Boncocan, Inquirer.net, Sep 10, 2011 – Moms, bring back the habit of making your children drink milk. This was the message Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto had for all mothers during a press conference Friday after visiting the latest school to be taught about proper nutrition: Bago Bantay Elementary School in Quezon City. READ MORE

Vilma Santos named one of the richest celebs in Philippine showbiz – By Jimi Escala, PEP, Sep, 05, 2011 – Noong September 1 ay ginanap ang Alay Lakad 2011 sa Batangas City. Ito ay pinangunahan siyempre ng governor ng Batangas na si Vilma Santos-Recto. READ MORE

Vilma Santos surprised and proud her son Luis Manzano is open to joining politics – By Ruben Marasigan, PEP, Sep 03, 2011 – Labis na ikinatuwa ni Governor Vilma Santos na maraming Batangueño ang nakiisa sa pinangunahan niyang Alay Lakad kahapon sa Batangas City. READ MORE

Luis Manzano on relationship with rumored girlfriend Jennylyn Mercado: “Lampas MU (mutual understanding) naman.” – By Ruben Marasigan, PEP, Sep 03, 2011 – Pagkagaling sa trabaho, kahit wala pang tulog ay dumiretso na si Luis Manzano sa Batangas City para makiisa sa Alay Lakad kahapon, September 1, na pinangunahan ng kanyang inang si Governor Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Luis Manzano, sasabak nga ba sa pulitika? – GMANews.tv, Sep 03, 2011 – Malakas ang naging hiyawan ng mga tao nang ipakilala ang anak ni Batangas Gov Vilma Santos-Recto na si Luis Manzano, bilang susunod na alkalde ng Lipa City. READ MORE

Pacquiao donates P200K to Alay Lakad – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Sep 02, 2011 – Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao donated P200,000 to the cause of the provincial Alay Lakad, which aims to give financial assistance to out-of-school youths. READ MORE

Manny Pacquiao makes a hefty donation for Batangas out-of-school youth – By Rowena Joy A. Sanchez, Manila Bulletin, Sep 02, 2011 – Superstar boxer and Sarangani congressman Manny Pacquiao becomes the Good Samaritan once again with his P200,000 donation for the out-of-school youth in Batangas. READ MORE

Gov Vilma Santos, may request kina Pacquiao, Jennylyn Mercado – GMANews.tv, Sep 02, 2011 – Very happy and thankful si Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto sa suportang ibinigay ng “Pambasang Kamao” na si Rep. Manny Pacquiao sa taunang Alay-Lakad na ginawa sa naturang lalawigan. READ MORE

Pacquiao supports Vilma’s Alay-Lakad in Batangas – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Sep 02, 2011 – Boxing champion Manny Pacquiao showed his support for Star for All Seasons Batangas Governor Vilma Santos as he joined the annual “Alay-Lakad” in Batangas City on Friday morning. READ MORE

Direk Joey cites Vilma, Juday as ‘timeless’ stars – By Shiela Reyes, abs-cbnNEWS.com, Aug 30, 2011 – Veteran director Jose Javier Reyes has an idea on how one can be considered a “timeless” star. Speaking to ANC’s “View from the Top,” Reyes explained that having a mark in the entertainment scene does not only entail that one should have good looks. READ MORE

Sharon still hopes film with Vilma, Gabby will push through – By Jecelyn V. Macahndog, Manila Bulletin, Aug. 29, 2011 – While Vilma Santos’ supposed movie with Sharon Cuneta has been canceled (Vilma is doing another movie with Kim Chiu), a hopeful megastar still sees the project pushing through next year. READ MORE

A starlet who has no sense of gratitude – By Mario Bautista, Journal, Aug 26, 2011 – A recent ugly encounter we had with a minor starlet made us realize that one true mark of good breeding is the ability to say thank you. We’ve been writing about showbiz since 1976 and we’ve seen lots of stars come and go. READ MORE

Nora hopes to meet Vilma while taping series in Batangas – By Kaye Villagomez, Manila Bulletin, Aug 26, 2011 – Nora Aunor is literally in a closer position to meet Vilma Santos as the returning actress commits to taping duties for a TV5 serial in Taal, Batangas where the actress-politician is Governor. READ MORE

Gov. Vilma Santos’ next movie has her constituents’ thumbs up – By Alex Valentin Brosas, Manila Bulletin, Aug 24, 2011 – As before, Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto sought the approval of her constituents before agreeing to do her forthcoming movie with Kim Chiu. READ MORE

Kim, Ate Vi excited over upcoming film – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Aug 24, 2011 – After confirming that she will be doing a movie this year, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos said she is looking forward to working with young actress Kim Chiu. READ MORE

Nora magko-courtesy call kay Gov. Vi – By Lolit Solis, Pilipino Star Ngayon, Aug 23, 2011 – At dahil sa Batangas ang taping, may plano ang cast at production crew ng Sa Ngalan ng Ina na magbigay-pugay kay Governor Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Vilma confirms film with Kim – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Aug 22, 2011 – After much speculation if she will do another movie this year, Batangas Governor Vilma Santos has finally confirmed that she will topbill another Star Cinema project. READ MORE

Gov. Vi: I never called for a presscon – By Mario Bautista, Journal, Aug 16 2011 – GOV. Vilma Santos is being accused by some folks of feeling insecure with all the publicity the comebacking Nora Aunor is getting so she reportedly called for her own presscon in Batangas. Her confidante, Jun Nardo, says she never called for a presscon. READ MORE

Robin: No Catholic wedding with Mariel…a movie offer with Vilma – By Ricardo F. Lo, The Philippine Star, Aug 15, 2011 – First, the breaking news: Regal Matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde confirmed to Funfare Update that she has a standing offer for Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos to star in a movie with Robin Padilla. READ MORE

Indie bug bites Ate Vi – By Bayani San Diego Jr., Philippine Daily Inquirer, Aug 14, 2011 – While admiring behind-the-scenes photographs of “Sister Stella L” displayed at Cesar Hernando’s recent exhibit at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, actress and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos told Regal producer Lily Monteverde that she missed the good old days of Philippine cinema. READ MORE

Nora, Vilma, gagawa ng remake ng mga sikat nilang pelikula – By Mario Dumaual, abs-cbnNEWS.com, Aug 12, 2011 – Excited na ibinunyag ni Vilma Santos na binubuo na ng ABS-CBN ang TV show nila ng anak na si Luis Manzano. Showbiz-politics daw ang tema nito at may kawanggawa pa. READ MORE

Vilma Santos is now ready to become a grandmom: “Basta tawagin lang ako ng Momsie, okey na. Huwag lang Lola!” – By Ruben Marasigan, PEP, Aug 12, 2011 – May mga nagsasabi na kaya raw pinagbubuti nang husto ni Batangas governor Vilma Santos ang kanyang pagiging public servant ngayon ay dahil may posibilidad na tahakin din niya ang landas patungong Malacañang Palace. Pero aniya, “‘Yong sa politics, hindi ko ito plinano. Maybe it was meant. READ MORE

PEP: Vilma Santos on Nora Aunor’s return: ‘Masaya ako, oo naman.’ – GMA News, Aug 11 2011 – Nilinaw ni Batangas governor Vilma Santos ang napabalitang siya ang first choice upang gumanap bilang Maria Agoncillo, ang second wife ni Emilio Aguinaldo, sa biopic na El Presidente. READ MORE

Vilma-Nora rivalry revived? – abs-cbnNEWS.com, Aug 10 2011 – Batangas Governor Vilma Santos is appealing to the public not to pit her against Superstar Nora Aunor, who just got back in the country last August 2 after being away for so many years. In an interview with ABS-CBN News on Wednesday, Santos said she already left their showbiz rivalry in the past. Santos believes they are already mature enough not to be affected by such intrigues. READ MORE

Ronnie Henares: One of him – By Butch Francisco, The Philippine Star, Aug 09 2011 – Very few probably are aware that Ronnie was once a matinee idol in the music profession. He was the other half of the famous singing duo called The Two of Us. His partner was Jojit Paredes, the cousin of Jim Paredes, who was also a kilabot ng mga colegiala as part of the Apolinario Mabini Hiking Society, now better known as the APO. Ronnie and Jojit were schoolmates in La Salle grade school, while Jim and his then large group were from rival Ateneo. READ MORE

Guy has no qualms being second choice to Vi – By Ethel Ramos, Malaya, Aug 8 2011 – “Actually, Guy and Gov. Vi are both special choices for the role,” Gov. .E.R. said. “It has been my dream to do a movie project with them.” READ MORE

Who said what again? – By Ricardo F. Lo, The Philippine Star, Aug 06, 2011 – “Kung hindi mo ako kayang mahalin bilang anak, irespeto mo na lang ako bilang tao.” Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Who said that again? READ MORE

25 Most Memorable Films – By Mario A. Hernando, The Philippine Star, July 27, 2011 – This is not a list of the best Filipino films ever made, though it could well be. Neither does it purport to be a comprehensive list. The 25 titles cited may be considered very good or outstanding, but more importantly, memorable — to this writer and all other viewers of local films who could still relish the memory of these fabulous works. READ MORE

Gracious ladies – By Lauren, Tempo, Jul 27, 2011 – But of course there are gracious ladies in showbiz. Four names right away come to mind, all of them movie queens coming from different decades. READ MORE

Photos that touch the heart – By Ricardo F. Lo, The Philippine Star, July 26, 2011 – Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos is the central figure in the exhibit and she found out only when she graced the opening, along with Regal Matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde and Cinemalaya festival director Nes Jardin. READ MORE

Field day in ‘shadow play’ – Philippine Daily Inquirer, July 21, 2011 – Batangas Governor Vilma Santos and Regal producer Lily Monteverde attended the photo exhibit opening of production designer/filmmaker Cesar Hernando at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. READ MORE

Behind the scene photos of Philippine cinema’s greatest films – By Terence Krishna V. Lopez, Bulatlat, July 20, 2011 – Case in point, the colored portrait of Vilma Santos at the center of the gallery from the Maryo J. Delos Reyes classic Tagos ng Dugo (1987) is definitely eye-catching. Two other photos of Santos are featured in the exhibit, from the set of the critically-acclaimed political classic, Mike de Leon’s Sister Stella L. READ MORE

Mula Sa Mga Aninong Gumagalaw: Behind The Scenes 1971- 2001 – Arkivista, July 12, 2011 – Cesar Hernando’s Mula Sa Mga Aninong Gumagalaw: Behind The Scenes 1971-2001 collects snapshots taken by the artist over the course of three decades working in Philippine cinema. READ MORE

Batangas demolishes 388 fish cages – By Ferdie F. Castro, Manila Bulletin, June 24, 2011 – “Task Force Taal Lake,” created by Governor Vilma Santos Recto to mitigate fish kill incidents in the province, announced Friday having cleared the lake of 388 illegal fish cages. READ MORE

Gov. Vilma Santos, other Batangas officials allay fish kill scare – GMA News, June 21, 2011 – Batangas governor Vilma Santos-Recto on Tuesday led provincial officials in feasting on bangus (milkfish) and tilapia to send a strong message to the public that these kinds of fish are safe to consume despite recent incidents of fish kill in Taal Lake. READ MORE

Lessons learned from top screen icons – By Nestor U. Torre, Philippine Daily Inquirer, June 03, 2011 – In the course of our TV-film-theater career as director, scriptwriter and performer, we’ve had the great good fortune of having been able to work with or otherwise interact with some of the best and most colorful icons of stage and screen. READ MORE

Vi helps ‘fish kill’ affected areas – People’s Journal , June 02, 2011 – Governor Vilma Santos-Recto created a team to assist local government units affected by the fish kill in Taal Lake. READ MORE

Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos admits negotiating with TV5 for possible movie project – By Jimi Escala, PEP, May 27, 2011 – Sa panayam ng PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) kay Batangas Governor Vilma Santos noong Miyerkules, May 25, sa Batangas, tinanong namin siya tungkol sa napabalitang offer sa kanya ng TV5 at magiging “Kapatid” na raw siya. Sa ngayon ay identified ang Star For All Seasons sa ABS-CBN, bagamat sa film arm lang nitong Star Cinema siya lumalabas. READ MORE

Governor Vilma Santos airs opinion on blossoming romance between son Luis Manzano and Jennylyn Mercado – By Jimi Escala, PEP, May 26, 2011 – Matapos magsalita ang dalawa sa magkahiwalay na pagkakataon, marami naman ang naghihintay sa pahayag ng ina ni Luis—ang Star for All Seasons at Batangas governor na si Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Forced evacuation of Taal folks looms – By Efren Montano, Journal.com.ph, April 19, 2011 – MALACAÑANG yesterday poised mandatory or forced evacuation in the wake of a looming eruption at Taal Volcano even as Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto clarified that “Taal is safe” despite the alert status. READ MORE

Vilma lauds CENTEX – By Ferdinand F. Castro, Manila Bulletin, April 01, 2011 – “Strive hard, compete and never take your education for granted.” This was the challenge hurled by Batangas Governor Vilma Santos Recto to students of Ayala Foundation’s Center of Excellence (CENTEX) in Bauan, Batangas during their 10th Founding Anniversary celebration at the provincial auditorium, the other day. READ MORE

Batangas execs vow to erase classroom backlog – By Arnell Ozaeta, ABS-CBN News, March 30, 2011 – Local executives of Batangas led by Governor Vilma Santos-Recto have partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) in erasing the shortage of classrooms in the province. Education Secretary Armin Luistro said Batangas lacks 510 classrooms and about 1,931 teachers out of the 152,000 classrooms and 103,000 teacher shortages nationwide. “While Batangas is not part of the list of priority areas, I thought of this partnership to make Batangas a zero-backlog province. I want the people to say ‘Dito sa Batangas, wala na kaming kakulangan, pinagtulungan na namin ito, kasama ng lahat ng sektor dito sa Batangas’. Sa larangan ng edukasyon, baka pwede na tayong magtulung-tulungan, wala ng pulitika,” he said. READ MORE

Health is no. 1 for Gov. Vi – Malaya, Mar 21, 2011 – AFTER nearly five decades during which she solidified her iconic status in the local entertainment world, Vilma Santos-Recto still managed to come into her own as a politician. She is now into her 13th year in politics, beginning with her victory as the first lady mayor of Lipa City and then the first lady governor of Batangas. READ MORE

ambush circulated clarified – Malaya, Mar 18, 2011- Over the weekend, rumors of Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos Recto having been killed in an ambush circulated and caused panic among the much-loved actress’ fans and friends in showbiz. READ MORE

Luis Manzano clarifies “ambush” report about his mom Governor Vilma Santos – By Rose Garcia, PEP, March 14, 2011 – Noong Sabado, March 12, may kumalat na balitang na-ambush diumano si Batangas Governor at Star For All Season Vilma Santos-Recto habang lulan ng kanyang sasakyan. Ayon pa sa ilang Twitter messages ay nasa “delikadong kundisyon” pa raw ang actress-politician. READ MORE

Batangas governor Vilma Santos “auditions” for Pilipinas Got Talent – PEP, March 14, 2011 – During the first part of the March 12 episode of Pilipinas Got Talent, the judges were asked to watch the “audition” of a special guest. Hosts Billy Crawford and Luis Manzano personally introduced the performer from Southern Luzon. Luis even quipped, “She’s hoping to make it big in the industry.” READ MORE

Entreps awarded at women’s summit– By Angeli Sabillo, The POC, March 06, 2011 – Headed by Go Negosyo and the GMA Network, the three-day event started last Friday with the awarding of Filipina “STARpreneurs” for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME), Large Enterprises and social entrepreneurs which included Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto. READ MORE

Entertainment Central joins the big league– By Nickie Wang, The Manila Standard, March 03, 2011 – The script has already been refurbished and is written by Roy Iglesias. Seasoned director Tikoy Aguiluz will be at the helm. A possible entry to the MMFF this year, Estregan is wooing another governor, Vilma Santos to play the role of Maria Agoncillo, the president’s wife. READ MORE

Kris, Vi join hands for medical mission– By Rowena Joy A. Sanchez, Manila Bulletin, February 26, 2011 – TV host-actress Kris Aquino continues her philanthropic efforts with her recent medical and dental mission project with Batangas governor Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Sharon in advertising imbroglio – By Joey Aquino, Journal Online, February 13, 2011 – In fact, they say it is in preparation for her movie with Batangas Governor Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Batangas focuses on agri development – The Philippine Star, February 6, 2011 – The enhancement of agriculture is at the top of the list of priorities in a comprehensive plan for the development of Batangas province. The plan was drawn up during an Executive Legislative Agenda Alliance Building (ELA) cum Provincial Development Plans meeting attended by representatives from various national government bureaus and local chief executives in Batangas recently. READ MORE

‘Vilma to do suspense thriller movie with Cuneta’ – By Boy Villasanta, abs-cbnNEWS.com, February 1, 2011 – It seems that award-winning filmmakers Jeffrey Jeturian, Adolf Alix, Jr. and Armando Lao will have to give way to prizewinning senior film director Chito Roño. Roño will carry out a much delayed but largely anticipated project for Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Will Vilma be the next Kapatid? – By Ricardo F. Lo, PhilStar.com, January 28, 2011 – First to sign up was Dolphy, followed by Maricel Soriano (how come she’s very scarce these days?) and then by several other big stars from other networks, the latest being Aga Muhlach who is now officially a Kapatid, having already signed up with TV5 which hasn’t stopped hiring in its aggressive effort to beef up its stable of talents, luring them with fat talent fees. READ MORE

Chito’s ‘scare tactics’ – By Mario Bautista, PhilStar.com, January 28, 2011 – After the musical Emir and the horror-comedy Bulong, what do we expect from him next? I’m doing a suspense-thriller with Vilma Santos. READ MORE

Batangas Hosts Workshop On Crisis Management – Manila Bulletin, January 24, 2011 – The Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A conducted Monday a seminar-workshop on Crisis Management Committee (CMC) at the Provincial Auditorium in the Batangas Capitol. READ MORE

Bigger New Products From PVB – By Remy Umerez, Journal Online, January 20, 2011 – WHENEVER we see Philippine Veterans Bank, we are reminded of Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto and how her awesome presence at the opening of the PVB Lipa branch last year made the event special and unforgettable. READ MORE

Vilma Santos orders creation of Verde Island Passage protection team – By Abigail Kwok, INQUIRER.net, January 19, 2011 – To protect its coastal waters, the province of Batangas created a special team that will specifically guard its bay area against illegal fishing and other attacks on marine life in the Verde Island Passage. READ MORE

Child stars as success stories; kiddie party hosting as a career – By Nestor Cuartero, Manila Bulletin, January 17, 2011 – MOST SUCCESSFUL CHILD STAR: Our story the other day on child actors whose lives have gone haywire is, but of course, only one face of showbiz. There is another face, the one chronicling the success of some of these so-called child stars of once upon a time. READ MORE

Sexist remarks ride on proposal to hire women as bus drivers – By Nestor Cuartero, Manila Bulletin, January 13, 2011 – HEARD: Why do celebrity girls – actresses of note – line up for the sexual services of a once inactive actor with exotic blood flowing in his veins? His conquests include the glamorous wife of a well-known personality and an equally glamorous singer-actress. The secret, they say, is in his weapon of mass destruction. READ MORE

Gov Vi urged to probe pollutant ship that escaped Batangas port – By Cris A, Ibon, The Philippine Star, January 09, 2011 – BATANGAS City – Environmentalists yesterday prodded Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto to pursue the investigation into the daring escape of a foreign vessel which caused massive pollution here and in Nasugbu since July 14 last year. READ MORE

Meeting the Mad Messiah: A conversation with filmmaker Celso Ad. Castillo – By Jessica Zafra, The Philippine Star, January 09, 2011 – When it was time to shoot the climactic dance scene in Burlesk Queen, Vilma Santos didn’t want to do it. She offered to return her talent fee. I’d already set up at the theatre with 500 extras when her assistant arrived and said she wasn’t coming. The following day I scheduled filming again. I informed William Leary who was her manager at the time. That night it was William Leary who showed up and said Vilma would return her fee. READ MORE

Tribute to Vi – By Mario Bautista, Journal.com.ph, January 07, 2011 – BATANGAS Gov. Vilma Santos does not have an entry in the Metro filmfest but her presence is very much felt because two Star Cinema entries pay tribute to her past films. READ MORE

Gov Vi to call for dialogue with Star Tollway officials – By Arnell Ozaeta, ABS-CBN News, January 04, 2011 – Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan will again call for a dialogue with the Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR) Tollway officials to map out plans in implementing additional safety features, following the vehicular accident that killed 7 people last Sunday. READ MORE

Lingkod TV’s child star picks: Zaijian, Jillian and Bimby – By Marinel R. Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquire, January 01, 2011 – Comedy King Dolphy and Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos were awarded the Lifetime Achievement Awards “for their invaluable contributions to the industry, as well as for the programs they have implemented that benefited thousands of Filipino children.” READ MORE

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News Articles Links (2010)

Posted on January 6, 2012 by @ffv Standard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAIR USE NOTICE: This site contains copyrighted materials the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to preserve the film legacy of actress, Ms. Vilma Santos-Recto and informations available to future generations. We believe this is NOT an infringement of any such copyrighted materials as in accordance to the the fair dealing clauses of both the Canadian and U.S. Copyright legislations, both of which allows users to engage in certain activities relating to research, private study, criticism, review, or news reporting. We are making an exerted effort to mention the source of the material, along with the name of the author, performer, maker, or broadcaster for the dealing to be fair, again in accordance with the allowable clauses. For more info visit, Wikipedia

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Film Review: Pinay American Style

Posted on January 4, 2012 by @ffv Standard

Vilma was obviously under utilized as PX in these Elwood Perez experiment. Despite this predicament, Vilma was able to give us a splash of her abilities. While Nora was in full bloom as Mila in these quiet Portes film. She gave us a convincing portrayal of lonely woman who realized that she was being used by a man she truly loves. The contrast of style was the main point why I matched these two roles. As PX, Vilma was talkative, hiding her insecurity and vulnerability with her fragile disguise pretending to be a rich New Yorker with almost caricature gestures. Regal films’ Pinay American Style was as commercial as one can imagine. Regal films producer, Lily Monteverde hired three leading men to support the most bankable actress of 1979, Christopher DeLeon, Bembol Rocco and Victor Cocoy Laurel. It was a period in Vilma’s career where she is doing one commercial films after the other. Two dance/musical hits Swing it Baby and Rock Baby Rock and a string of sexy films like Rubia Servious the previous year, Coed and Magkaribal mostly targeting the mature adult audience established her status as the number one box office superstar of 1978-79. Vilma in 1979 was a picture of self-assured bankable star. She did two movies with Elwood Perez, Magkaribal and Pinay American Style both were box office hits. She also produced an Eddie Rodrigues starrer Halik sa Paa Halik sa Kamay, and teamed-up with comedy king, Dolphy in Buhay Artista. As the year 1979 ends, she battled the drama queen Charito Solis in the local festival entry, Modelong Tanso. The end of the decade marked her stronghold as the box office queen. Clearly, Vilma Santos’ versatility as an actress was the secret weapon of her box office success. And this weapon was in full display in Pinay American Style. Pinay American Style was the story of PX, an illegal alien or TNT – “tago ng tago.” Her boyfriend played by Victor Laurel abandoned her for a rich American girl mainly to secure a green card. PX met an Americanized Filipino, Christopher DeLeon but found him not serious of having her as a steady girlfriend. It just so happened that PX also met Christopher’s brother, Bembol Rocco, a new immigrant. PX and Bembol fell for each other. And a love triangle surfaced the screen. Adding to the drama was Victor Laurel’s enraged, jealous appearances. Laurel eventually tipped the police ending PX stays in New York. As Bembol Rocco realized that America doesn’t fit his lifestyle, he reconciled with his brother and advised him to follow PX in the Philippines. Christopher and Vilma reconciled in a farm field in the Philippines. The end.

The film was so forgettable that the critics didn’t even bother to write any reviews. The lack of enthusiasm on the part of the critics was compensated with the box office success of the film. Vilma fits the role as the illegal alien, PX. Her attempt to speak fluent English and pretend that she’s rich when she met the boyish looking Christopher was funny and poignant. She was given enough scenes to shine. One was when she was harassed by her landlady, she promised her the rent money the next day and when she’s gone, she opened her refrigerator and found a staled piece of bread. She took bottled water and ate the staled bread, went to the bedroom and found her mom’s letter. Lying down in bed, she started to break down. A quiet scene without dialogue. A contrast from the earlier scenes where she was talkative as she tried to impress Christopher and telling him she’s rich and from a well-known family. It was obvious in 1979, Elwood Perez wasn’t the kind of director you will expect to produce a serious output. He wasn’t a Bernal or Brocka. He’s a commercial director. It was a better effort though, compared to a much more convoluted Magkaribal or their past successful projects like Nakawin natin ang bawat sandali and masakit masarap ang umibig. In Pinay, Toto Belano’s script wasn’t efficient in ironing out the “love quadrangle” plot twists and establishing the characters of four actors. So the blame can’t be put to solely to Perez’ shoulder. There was a scene were Vilma Santos and Christopher were watching a concert which was obviously not part of the script. – RV (READ MORE)

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Film Review: Saan Nagtatago Ang Pag-ibig

Posted on December 28, 2011 by @ffv Standard

The Plot: Rick (Ricky Davao), an irresponsible, lecherous law student, always makes his brain-damaged half-brother Val (Tonton Gutierrez) his fall guy for fear of losing the inheritance from his wealthy authoritarian grandmother Doña Pacing (Alicia Vergel). This time he makes Val marry his pregnant girlfriend Stella (Vilma Santos) to save her face and to mollify her parents. Bankrupt with their house facing forfeiture, their mother Carmen (Gloria Romero) is completely fearful and subservient to her intimidating mother in-law Doña Pacing who hates and blames her for the suicide of her son due to Carmen’s past indiscretion. Though trapped in her dire circumstances, Stella stays faithful to her marriage and tries to be a good wife by diligently teaching the childlike Val who finds comfort and love for Stella. – TFC Now (READ MORE)

The Reviews: Nang malaman ni Stella na buntis siya ay pinilit niyang managot ang kasintahan nitong si Rick, isang law student na tagapagmana na ariarian ng kanyang matapobreng lola. Dahil sa panakot na mag-i-iskandalo’y ipinakasal nila si Stella sa kapatid ni Rick na retarded upang hindi mawala ang mana nito at kasabay ay maiwasan ang kahihiyan ni Stella na mabuntis ng walang asawa at ama ang kanyang dinadalang bata. Kasabay ng pagbubuntis ni Stella ay natutunan nitong mahalin ang retarded na si Val. Kasabay rin nito’y natuklasan ni Stella na si Val ay anak sa labas ng kanilang ina at ito’y hindi sinilang na kulang-kulang. Dahil sa kalupitan ng matapobreng lola ng mga bata’y nahulog ito sa hagdanan ng pagbintangan si Val ng matandang nagnanakaw ng pera. Nahulog ang batang si Val habang pinapalo ito ng kanyang ina. Isang gabi’y nagwala si Val nang Makita nitong nakikipagtalo si Stella kay Rick. Sinunggaban ni Val si Rick at nagaway sila. Ang naging resulta ng pag-aaway na ito’y aksidenteng nahulog sa balkonahe ang kaawa-awang si Val. Namatay ito at sa araw ng libing ay dumating ang matapobreng matanda para ibigay ang abuloy nito kay Stella. Isinauli ni Stella ang tseke sa matanda at ipinahayag na si Val ang ginawa nilang ama ng anak ni Rick dahil sa takot silang lahat na mawalan ng mana. Galit na umalis ang matanda at tuluyang naglaho ang mana ni Rick. Nagdesisyon na iwan ni Stella ang bahay kasama ng kanyang anak.

Mula sa direksiyon ni Eddie Garcia, ang Saan Nagtatago Ang Pag-ibig ay hango sa komiks. Bagama’t mahahalatang puro isang dimensiyon lamang ang halos lahat na karakter ng pelikula’y mahusay naman naihayag ni Direktor Eddie ang komiks na komiks na istorya nito. Bakit kailangang maging binata si Rick habang nagaaral ito ng abogasya? Bakit napakahalaga nito sa matapobreng si Alicia Vergel? Bakit may nakatakip ang isa sa mata ng matanda na parang bandido? Sa ubod ng yaman ng matanda hindi ba puedeng maglagay ng pekeng mata kesa sa bendand itim? Bagamat nakakatawa ang obserbasyon na ito’y dahil sa bisyuwal na kaanyuan ng matapobreng matanda kung kaya naman epektibong makikita ang pagiging kontrabida nito. Tulad ng “Paano Ba Ang Mangarap,” merong ‘dream sequence” ang pelikula kung saan kunwari’y hinuhusgahan si Val na isang baliw. Kung puputulin ang eksenang ito’y hindi magiging sagabal sa paglalahad ng buong istorya ni Gilda Olvidado. Mula sa lumang bahay hanggang sa eksena sa libingan ay mahusay ang sinematograpiya ni Romy Vitug at disenyong pangproduksiyon ni Manny Morpe. Mahusay ang mga katulong na artista mula kay Cherrie Gil, Alicia Alonzo at Alicia Vergel. Mahusay rin si Ricky Davao bilang Rick at Gloria Romero bilang ina ni Rick at Val. Ngunit ang pelikulang ito’y tungkol kay Val at bilang si Val ay nabigyan ng mahusay na pagganap ni Tonton Gutierrez ang papel na sinto sinto mula sa pagsasalita na utal utal haggang sa pisikal na mukha at pa-ika-ikang paglalakad. Tulad ng inaasahan, mahusay si Vilma bilang si Stella. At tulad ng maraming pelikulang ginawa niya sa ilalim ng Viva at sa direksiyon ni Eddie Garcia ay merong linya o dayalogo siya na hindi malilimutan, ito ay nang bigkasin niya ang linyang, “…si Val, si val na wala naman malay…” na magpahanggang ngayon ay natanim sa mga Pilipino na mahihilig sa pelikulang tagalog. – RV (READ MORE)

Where does logic hide? – On the outset, this latest output churned by the factory of high gloss komiks melodramas suffers from serious credibility problem. Can a retardate enter into a marriage if the other party consents to it? This sham marriage is void ab initio because of the groom’s incapacity but the film proceeds as if it is legally binding. A causal glance can make the officiator doubt the capacity of the groom but the wedding must take place as has been scripted. The groom later affixes his thumb print on the marriage contract to signify his consent. We are made to believe that it is as simple as that. This is a far worse predicament than waht Vilma Santos suffered in Ibigay Mo sa Akin ang Bukas where she married a homosexual but whose sexual aberration she was not aware of before the wedding. It would take several years before Vilma, who surprisingly played a doctor, finally saw the truth. It was an insult to the viewer’s mind. This time, Vilma (Estella) is presumed into marrying Tonton Gutierrez (Val) because her beau Ricky Davao (Ric) has made her pregnant but cannot give her his name, at least, for the moment. If he marries her at this stage, Ric forfeits the vast inheritance which his rich grandma (Alicia Vergel) has promised to bequeth to him. Tic has made a deal with the old woman that he will finish law and pass the bar before getting hitched. Estella will then seek nullification of her marriage to Val. The red-blooded male, of course, cannot control his libido and succeeds in handling his girlfriend during her fertile grind.

Ric loves Estella directly but not enough to forego his inherittance. It is imperative for Ric to stuck to the deal because his family is in dim straits. His mother’s (Gloria Romero) antique shop isn’t going well and their house has been mortgaged witht the bank. Concerned auntie (Alicia Alonzo) suggests looking for a harmless male to give Estella’s baby a legitimate name while Ric finishes his studies. The task fall on Val Ric’s half-brother, who fell down the stais years ago which caused his retardation. Estella soon learns to accept her new status as wife, maid and teacher to Val which creates a rift between her and Ric. A fight occurs between the brothers which sends Val crushing down the grand veranda….For sure, the film has been well-acted. Vilma, once again awes us with her astringent putdowns in her familiar facial expressions and pertinent body language. That long monologue in front of the dying Tonton is an eloquent testimony to her acting talent. Tonton is worthy of notice as the retardate but we have to be assured that he is capable of doing the things he does in the film. Can he really remember the past with such clarity despite his brain damage? Nevertheless, he has captured the mannerisms and speech of the character he portrays. Alicia Vergel comes on too strong as the aristocratic Nyora Pacing who wears an eyepatch and walks with a cane. Ricky Davao vies for attection in his anti-hero role. Cherie Gil as Ricky’s flighty sister is less fierry but more believable. Gloria Romero delivers a sensitive portrayal of the weak mother with a dark past while Alicia Alonzo plays her sister who is privy to the family’s secrets. Eddie Garcia should be commended for toning down his confrontation scenes. His familiarity with this film genre shows in the way he manipulates the characters and builds up the scene. Still, one cannot help but questions the logic behind that sham marriage. – Luciano E. Soriano (READ MORE)

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Film Review: LANGIS AT TUBIG

Posted on December 21, 2011 by @ffv Standard

The Plot: Bobby (Dindo Fernando) is a man secretly in love with his neighbour and friend Cory (Vilma Santos) but who is living-in with her partner Charlie (Ronaldo Valdez). However, Cory decides to leave Charlie upon discovering his deepest secret that he is a married man. This gives Bobby the chance to show his true feelings for Cory and marries her even adopting the child Charlie has left in her womb. Bobby lives the life of a perfect husband with Cory and accepts a job assignment in Albay shuttling to and from Manila to support his new family. In the province, he meets Pilar (Amy Austria) a lovely town girl. His friendship with Pilar blossoms and they find themselves falling for each other, with Bobby concealing his real marital status. Soon the two learn that she is pregnant and the family forces them into marriage. Consequently, the women discover that Bobby is living a lie and is married to two women. He is forced to make a crucial decision, which of his marriages must be honour? Or will he faced the prospect of getting charged with bigamy? – Philippine Movies (READ MORE)

The Reviews: Nang magkaroon ng chance si Bobby (Dindo Fernando) ay sinamantala niya ang sitwasyon ng matagal na niyang nililigawang si Cory (Vilma Santos). Hiniwalayan ng kapitbahay niya ang ka-live in nitong si Charlie (Ronaldo Valdez) dahil sa panloloko nito. Natuklasan ni Cory na may asawa na ito at kinakuwartahan lang pala siya. Buntis si Cory at para maiwasan ang kahihiyan ay pumayag itong pakasal sa manliligaw na si Bobby. Nagpakasal nga ang dalawa at sa kabila ng mga tsismisan ay natutunan rin ni Cory na mahalin si Bobby. Sa kabila ng kanilang matiwasay na pagsasama ay hindi pa rin magkaanak si Cory kay Bobby hanggang sa madestino si Bobby sa Bicol kung saan nabuntis niya si Pilar (Amy Austria). Napilitang pakasalan ni Bobby si Pilar dahil sa pananakot ng pamilya nito. Nang malaman ng masugid na manliligaw ni Pilar (George Estregan) na may asawa na pala ang pinakasalan ng kanyang nililigawan ay sinabi niya agad rito’t lumuwas si Pilar upang alamin kung tutoo nga ang balitang ito. Rito niya nalamang dalawa nga silang pinakasalan ni Bobby at nagsampa ito ng demandang “bigamy.” Nang malaman ni Cory ang nangyari, una’y nasaktan ito ngunit inintindi niya ang asawa at handa itong magparaya para lang hindi ito makulong. Nagkasundo si Cory at Pilar at iuurong na ni Pilar ang demanda ngunit nagdesisyon si Bobby at hinarap ang pagkakasala nito. Sa harap ng husgado ay sinabi niyang siya ay “guilty” at nakulong siya.

“…In 1980, tatlong pelikula ni Nora Aunor ang maituturing na panlaban: two by Brocka (Nakaw na Pag-ibig and Bona) and the other by Laurice Guillen, Lea Productions’ Kung Ako’y Iiwan Mo. She won the Gawad Urian for Bona. Ang panlaban ni Vilma was Zialcita’s Langis at Tubig. Hindi taon ni Vilma ang 1980, which saw the emergence of other young and talented actresses like Gina Alajar (Brutal), naka-tie ni Nora sa Urian, and Amy Austria, na tumalo kay Aunor sa Metro Manila Film Festival. In the 1980 MMFF, Amy won with a lone entry – Brutal – while Nora got nominated for Bona and Kung Ako’y Iiwan Mo. (A case of split votes.) Sa 1980 Gawad Urian, nominated sina Nora, Gina (eventual winners) at Amy, samantalang si Vilma was “snubbed by the critics.” In 1981, nanalong MMFF Best Actress si Vilma for Zialcita’s Karma, besting Nora’s multi-character portrayal in Maryo J. delos Reyes’ musical-drama Rock ‘N Roll. Vi, however, failed to win any other nomination for that starrer, while Nora went on to win a trophy (Catholic Mass Media Awards) and Best Actress nomination (Gawad Urian) for Mario O’Hara’s Bakit Bughaw ang Langit?…” – William Reyes (READ MORE)

Sa direksiyon ni Danny Zialcita, ang Langis At Tubig ay isang pelikulang mabilis at nakakaaliw sa kabila ng pangkaraniwang istorya nito. Tinalakay ng pelikula ang tungkol sa bigami at inilahad ang mensahe na kahit na ano pa ang sitwasyong kinakaharap ng mga tauhan ng pelikula’y hindi maikakaila talaga na may kasalanan ang karakter na ginampanan ni Dindo Fernando. Sa bandang huli’y hayagan sinabi ng husgado na sa mata ng batas walang nangingibawbaw na kahit na sino, ang maysala ay dapat parushan. Isang lagda na ng director Zialcita ang nakakaaliw ng mga diyalogo at ang Langis ay hindi na naiiiba sa mga nagawa na niyang pelikula tulad ng “Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan” at “T-Bird At Ako.” Ang huling pelikulang ginawa ni Zialcita ay nuong 1986 pa, sana ay magbalik pelikula na siya. Napakahusay ng cinematography ni Felizardo Bailen at ang mabilis ng editing ni Ike Jarlego Sr. Bagama’t maganda ang themesong na ginawa ni George Canseco ay nakaka-distract naman sa ilang eksena na bigla na lang pumapasok ang kanta ni Sharon na dapat sanay tahimik na lang. Kung ang pag-uusapan naman ay ang pagganap, mahusay si Amy Austria bilang Pilar. Makikitang pinaghandaan niya ang kanyang pagganap. Muli, binigyan ng magagandang linya si Vilma Santos mula sa umpisa kung saan kinompronta niya ang manloloko niyang ka-live in at sinabing: “namputsa naman nahuli ka na ayaw mo pang aminin” at sa bandang huli nang intindihin niya ang asawa at handing magparaya, sinabi niya “…handa akong magparaya, kung gusto niya isang lingo sa kanya, isang lingo sa akin…” Pero halatang ang pelikulang ito ay pelikula ni Dindo Fernando. Deserving si Dindo sa kanyang pagkapanalo sa Famas bilang pinakamahusay na actor bagamat nang taong ito’y mahusay rin si Christopher Deleon sa Aguila at Taga ng Panahon at Jay Ilagan sa Brutal. Tahimik lang ang pag-arte niya’t makikita ang kanyang intensity sa kanyang eksena kung saan nagtapat na siya sa asawang si Cory tungkol sa kanyang kaso. Mahusay rin siya nang hinarap niya si Pilar at sabihin niyang, “mahal ko kayong dalawa.” Maganda ang location ng pelikula. Makikita ang mga ordinaryong tanawin ng Albay sa Bicol at ang mga ordinaryong manggagawa rito mula sa mga nagtatanim ng palay hanggang sa mga nagtitinda ng mga paninda sa palengke ng bayan. Sa kabila ng ordinaryong istorya ng Langis At Tubig, ang mahusay na direksyon at mahusay na pagkakaganap ng mga artista rito’y nangibabaw ang tunay na karapatan nitong panoorin muli ng mga mahihilig sa pelikulang Pilipino. Sayang nga lang at hindi na gumagawa ng pelikula ang ang gumawa ng obrang ito. – RV (READ MORE)

Zialcita’s first movie with Vilma was the 1980 festival entry, a drama about bigamy, Langis at Tubig. The following year, Zialcita and Santos joined forces again in antoher festival entry, Karma. The film earned Vilma her second Metro Manila Film Festival Best Actress. The following year, Ziacita’s Gaano Kadalas Ang Minsan broke box office record, Earned P7.3 million during its first day of showing in Metro Manila and assured Vilma Santos the box office queen of 1982. The total number of Vilma Santos and Danny Zialcita colloborations were four (Gaano Kadalas ang Minsan? 1982, Karma 1981, Langis at Tubig 1980, T-Bird at Ako). – RV (READ MORE)

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Film Review: Young Love

Posted on December 14, 2011 by @ffv Standard

Taong 1970. Gumawa si Vilma Santos ng dalawamput isang pelikula na puro musicals. Isa lamang ang nagawa niyang drama (Sapagkat Sila’y Aming Mga Anak). Nakakapagtaka dahil hindi naman siya singer. Marahil ito ay dahil sa love team nila ni Edgar Mortiz at ito ang “trend” ng panahong ito. Pito-pito kung gumawa sila ng pelikula ng panahong iyon kung baga dalawang pelikula ang pinapalabas nila sa loob ng isang buwan. Isa na rito ang pelikula ng Sampaguita Pictures, ang “Young Love” na tinampukan ni Nora Aunor, Tirso Cruz III, Vilma Santos at Edgar Mortiz. Mapupuna na ang pelikulang ito ay bida si Nora at Tirso at supporting lamang si Vilma at Edgar. Mula sa istorya ni German Moreno at screenplay ni Medy Tarnate ang “Young Love” ay puno ng nakakalokang sitwasyon at napakababaw ng mga eksena at diyalogo. Ang director nito’y si Tony Cayado. At ang mga sayaw ay sa ilalim ng choreography ni Lito Calzado. Hindi natin alam kung bakit tinawag na “Young Love” ang pelikula samantalang hindi naman ito tungkol sa pag-iibigan ng mga kabataan rito kundi tungkol sa singing contest na sinalihan nina Ditas Aunor (Nora Aunor) at Joey Cruz (Tirso Cruz III). Naging tabla ang resulta ng singing contest at ginawa silang mga mainstay singers ng television show. Matapos ng contest ay makikitang naghahabulan na si Ditas at Joey sa may mga puno ng niyog at makikitang nagliligawan rin sina Tere (Vilma Santos) at Buboy (Edgar Mortiz) sabay kanta ang apat ng “Young Love.” Sa tutoo lang ito lang ang eksena kung saan maririnig na kumakanta rin si Vilma at nakipagsabayan siya kay Nora. Sa tuwing papasok sa eksena si Bella Flores ay tili ito ng tili at laging sinisigawan si Ditas which was very typical ng mga contrabida nuong panahong ito and very irritating. Narito rin si Etang Discher na isang ulyanin na lola ni Tirso at Vilma. Pilit nitong pinapapunta si Tirso sa Australia pero laging niloloko nito ang matanda at sinasabing natapos na pala ang isang taon at nakabalik na raw ito mula Australia. Tapos nito’y makikita si Ike Lozada na kumakanta sa harap ng mga batang lansangan. Samantala si Bella Flores ay nakipagayos kay Tom Junes (Raul Aragon) upang sabotahin mismo nito ang show ng kanyang sariling pamangkin. Makikita ang nakakalokang sex scene ng dalawa. At ang sumunod na eksena ay ang drama scene ni Ate Vi. Dahil marahil sa walang eksena si Ate Vi na kumakanta ay binigyan siya ng sariling eksena at katapat ito ng maraming eksena ni Nora na kumakanta. Ito ay nang mahuli ni Ate Vi niya si Tom Junes at Bella Flores na nagse-sex. Takbo ito habang umiiyak. Makikita na dumating ito sa sariling bahay at sa kuwarto nito’y pinagsisira niya ang pictures ni Tom Junes kasama ng album nito. Devoted fan pala siya ni Tom Junes. Cut! Tapos na ang eksena ni Ate Vi. Pasok ang mga musical numbers, kanta ng ilang beses si Nora, Tirso, Edgar and Ike Lozada. Meron ding dance numbers, pero wala si Ate Vi sa mga dance numbers na ito. And then it’s the end. Napapakamot ako sa ulo.

Nakakaloka talaga. Makikitang hindi pinag-isipan ang istorya nito. Ginawa nilang i-showcase ang pagiging singer ni Nora Aunor. Kadalasan ang mga kanta niya ay mga version ng mga English popular cover songs at hindi original Filipino songs. Tulad ng “I Believe” at marami pang iba. Kung tutuusin ito ang trend nuon, ang mga kantang galing sa amerika. So much of the fact that lahat ng mga drum beaters ni Nora ay sinisigaw ang kanyang pagiging isang ulirang Filipina dahil sa kanyang pisikal na itsura. Pero mukha ka ngang dalagang Filipina pero pagbuka naman ng bunganga mo eh lumalabas mga kantang banyaga anong klaseng dalagang Filipina yan? Sa sobrang inpluensiya ng mga banyagang kanta ng kalagitnaan ng dekada 70 ay nagkaroon ng rebelyon sa ere ng mga radyo. Nauso ang Original Pilipino Music o OPM bilang sagot sa musikang dayuhan. Sumulpot ang mga musikerong Juan DeLaCruz, Hotdog, Cinderella, VST & Co., Sampaguita, Freddy Aguilar, Coritha, Mike Hanopol, at marami pang iba na ang mga kanta ay tagalog at pawang komposisyon ng mga Pilipino. Ang mga kanta ni Nora ay puro mga English kontradiksyon ng mga sinisigaw ng fans niya na isang imahen ng Filipino si Nora. Kung ang itsura man niya ay pilipinang-pilipina ang mga kinakanta naman niya ay – puro kanta ng dayuhan. Ito rin ang dahilan kung bakit wala siyang masasabing signature song dahil puro version niya lamang ang mga kantang ni-record ng panahong iyon. Samatala si Vilma Santos na hindi singer ay nagkaroon ng kanyang sariling signature songs bagamat English ang mga lyrics ng mga ito, original Filipino composition naman ang mga ito tulad ng “Bobby Bobby Bobby” at “Sixteen.” Kasabay nito’y ni-record din niya ang mga tagalog songs na “Isipin Mong bastat mahal kita,” “Bato sa buhangin,” at “Palong-palo.” Nang kalagitanaan ng dekada 70 ay kapunapuna na kaunti na lamang ang mga pelikulang kantahan at hindi na kumikita ang mga ito kung kaya mapupuna na nag-umpisa nang gumawa ng matitinong pelikula kapwa sina Nora Aunor at Vilma Santos.

Ang “Young Love” ay isang halimbawa ng pelikulang gawa ng unang bahagi ng dekada 70. Mabilisang gawa. Mababaw ng istorya at hitik ng mga musical numbers. Mayroon mga nakakatawang eksena tulad ng pagkanta sa mga burulan ng patay basta magkaroon lang ng eksena ng kantahan. Tutoo ito, may mga eksena na nagkakantahan sa ilalim ng punong kahoy. Mga sayawan, habulan, at ligawan sa mga beach at kahuyan. Nag-click ito sa mga tao nang unang bahagi ng dekada sitentat ngunit sinawaan rin ang mga tao at nang dumating na ang huling bahagi ng dekada ay nagbago ito. Dito dumating ang panahon na nagbago na ang imahen ni Vilma Santos at nag-umpisa na itong ungusan ang walang kawawaang pagkanta ni Nora sa mga basurang pelikula niya. Ang “Young Love” ay puno ng walang kawawaang musical numbers ni Nora Aunor. Puno rin ito ng mga eksenang nakakaloka na kahit na ang batang paslit ay magkakamot ng ulo at sasabihin ang “huh?” Kung hindi mo hahahanapin ang matinong istorya at ang hangad mo lang ay makita kung gaano kagaling kumanta si Nora Aunor kahit pa sa burulan ng patay tiyak na mage-enjoy ka sa pelikulang ito dahil maraming eksena rito si Nora na kumakanta ng walang kawawaang kantang dayuhan (Global Vilmanianswords). RELATED READING: Filmography: Young Love (1970)

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Film Review: Pakawalan Mo Ako

Posted on December 7, 2011 by @ffv Standard

30 na taon na ang nakakalipas nang una nating napanood ang pelikulang Pakawalan Mo Ako. Tumabo ito sa takilya at nagbunga ng pagkapanalo ni Ate Vi ng Best Actress mula sa Famas para sa taong ito. Maalala mo pa ba ang mga detalye ng pelikula? Eto ang ating munting tribya…

1. Naging promo girl si Ate Vi sa pelikula. Para makatipid sa pera ano ang kinain niya sa eksena sa turo-turo?
A) siopao at tubig B) mamon at tubig C) lugaw at tubig D)hopya at tubig

2. Sa tulong ng kanyang kaibigan, pumasok siya bilang isang…?
A) sekretarya B) mananayaw C) escort girl D) model

3. Ano ang palayaw ng anak ni Ate Vi sa pelikula?
A) Jun Jun B) Junior C) Jonny Boy D) Bon bon

4. Ano ang pangalan ng karakter ni Vilma Santos sa pelukula?
A) Alicia B) Ana C) Alona D) Anita

5. Ano ang pangalan ng karakter ni Christopher sa pelikula?
A) Alfredo Villasenor B) Alfonso Villasenor C) Antonio Villasenor D) Amado Villasenor

6. Ano ang pangalan ng karakter ni Antony Castelo sa pelikula?
A) Bernandino San Diego B) Bernard San Diego C) Benito San Diego D) Bobby San Diego

7. Ano ang pangalan ng karakter ni Deborah Sun sa pelikula?
A) Benilda Santos B) Blesilda Santos C) Bernadette Santos D) Babette Santos

8. Ano ang inilit ng karakter ni Bella Flores sa unang bahagi ng pelikula?
A) Kotse B) titulo ng lupa C) Piano D) Alahas

9. Ano ang nakita ng karakter ni Christopher DeLeon at natuklasan niya na walang kasalanan ang karakter ni Vilma sa pelikula?
A) Bala sa laruan ng bata B) larawan ng krimen sa laruan ng bata C) mga dugo sa laruan ng bata D) lahat ng ito

10. Nang unang pagtangkaan ni Antony Castelo si Vilma sa pelikula ay nagpumiglas ito sabay kuha sa perang inalok ni Antony at ano ang kanyang sinabi bago umalis?
A) limang daan ang kabayaran ng halik may sukli ka pa!
B) Kukunin ko ang kabayaran ng halik may sukli ka pa!
C) Hindi ako nagpapabayad pero kukunin ko ang bayad ng halik at may sukli ka pa!
D) Hindi ako nagpapabayad pero kukunin ko ang bayad ng halik at wala ka nang sukli!

11. Sinong binaril ng karakter ni Vilma sa pelikula?
A) ang tauhan ng ama ni Antony Castelo
B) ang karakter ni Antony Castelo
C) ang ama ng karakter ni Antony Castelo
D) walang nabaril ang karakter ni Vilma

12 Saan nabisto ng kapatid ng kasintahan ni Ate Vi siya na isang escort girl?
A) Sa isang restaurant na ang pangalan ay Le Polle
B) Sa isang disco na ang pangalan ay Le Polle
C) Sa isang club na ang pangalan ay Le Polle
D) Sa isang cinehan na ang pangalan ay Le Polle

13. Pinagbintangan si Vilma ng pagpatay, sino ang pinatay niya raw sa pelikula?
A) ang karakter ni Antony Castelo
B) ang karakter ng tatay ni Antony Castelo
C) ang karakter ni Christopher DeLeon
D) ang karakter ng tatay ni Christopher DeLeon

14. Sino ang sumulat ng istorya ng Pakawalan Mo Ako?
A) Lualhati Bautista B) Emmanuel H. Borlaza C) Pete Lacaba D) Ricardo Lee

15. Ano ang titulo ng theme song ng pelikula?
A) Balatkayo B) Mahiwaga C) Dati D) Nais Kong Ibigin Ka

16. Ano ang trabaho ng karakter ni Christopher DeLeon sa pelikula?
A) doctor B) dentist C) lawyer D) police

17. Nang wala na silang mapakunan ng pera ano ang binenta ng karakter ni Antony Castelo?
A) mga alahas niya B) motorsiklo C) bahay D) kotse

18. Ano ang tawag ng tatay ng karakter ni Antony Castelo kay Vilma?
A) puta B) kunwari mahinhin C) magnanakaw ng anak D) social climber

19. Sino ang namatay sa umpisa ng pelikula?
A) ang tiyahin ni Vilma B) ang lola ni Vilma C) ang nanay ni Vilma D) ang tatay ni Vilma

20. Bakit iniwanan ng karakter ni Christopher De Leon si Vilma sa pelikula?
A) dahil naging criminal si Vilma sa umpisa ng pelikula
B) dahil nahuli niya si Vilma kayakap si Antony Castelo
C) dahil nahuli si Vilma ng kapatid ni Chritopher papasok sa isang hotel
D) dahil nakapatay si Vilma

21. Nang wala nang ibang mahingan ng tulong, pumunta ang karakter ni Vilma kay Debora Sun at duon nadatnan niya na may kasama itong boyfriend, ano ang pangalan ng lalaki ni Deborah?
A) Mando B) Cesar C) Raffi D) Ariel

22. Sino ang tunay na ama ng batang anak ng karakter ni Vilma sa pelikula?
A) ang karakter ni Christopher DeLeon
B) ang karakter ni Antony Castelo
C) hindi alam ng karakter ni Vilma kung sino ang ama
D) ang tatay na mayaman ng karakter ni Antony Castelo

23. Ano ang binibili ng karakter ni Christopher DeLeon ng makita niya ang dating katipan, si Vilma, kasama ang pamilya nito sa department store?
A) Relos B) Camera C) Books D) Tie

24. Sino ang naglapat ng musika ng pelikula?
A) George Canseco B) Ryan Cayabyab C) Willie Cruz D) Lutgardo Labad

25. Ano ang naging sakit ng nanay ng karakter ni Vilma sa pelikula?
A) stroke B) diabetes C) tuberculosis D) leprosy

26. Ano ang pangalan ng ama ng karakter ni Antony Castelo
A) Don Nilo B) Don Benito C) Don Lino D) Don Lupito

The Plot: Namatay ang tatay ni Ana (Vilma Santos) at dahil rito’y naghirap sila. Napilitan siyang magtinda ng sabon at tumigil sa pag-aaral. Sa kabila nito hindi siya humingi ng tulong sa katipan na si Freddie Villasenor (Christopher DeLeon). Dahil sa hirap ay napilitang pumasok si Ana sa isang escort service sa tulong ng kanyang kaibigang si Bernadette Santos (Deborah Sun). Nakilala ni Ana si Bernard San Diego (Antony Castelo) sa kanyang trabaho bilang escort girl. Sa gabing iyon nakita siya ng kapatid na babae ni Freddy. Nang yayain ni Freddy si Ana para magpakasal pumayag na ito at pumunta siya sa bahay ni Freddy para makilala ang pamilya ni Freddy. Hindi nila alam ay inimbitahan ng kapatid ni Freddy si Bernard San Diego. At sa hapag ng kainan ay binisto nito ang tunay na trabaho ni Ana. Umalis nang umiiyak si Ana at nagkagalit sila ni Freddy. Pinuntahan ni Bernard si Ana para humingi ng paunmanhin ngunit naabutan sila ni Freddy at nag-away sila ni Bernard. Inakala ni Freddy na talagang may relasyon si Bernard at Ana kung kaya iniwanan niya ito. Nagbalik si Ana sa kanyang trabaho. Nagkaroon ng secret admirer ito. Yung pala ito ay si Bernard. Nalaman rin ni Ana na buntis siya at ang ama ng dinadala niya ay si Freddy. Inalok ni Bernard si Ana ng kasal at pumayag naman ito sa kabila ng pagtutol ng kanyang mayamang ama. Lumaki ang bata at apat na taon na ito nang magdesisyon ang ama ni Bernard na tigilan na ang pagsasama ng dalawa. Inalok si Ana ng malaking halaga ngunit tumutol ito. Nang umalis ang ama ni Bernard ay pinaiwan nito ang isa sa kanyang mga tauhan para gahasain si Ana. Dumating si Bernard at nagaway sila ng tauhan ng kanyang ama. Sa kaguluhan ay nabaril ng tauhan ng kanyang ama si Bernard mismo. Sinet-up ng ama ni Bernard si Ana. Pinakulong at kinuhang abogado si Freddy. Sa hukuman ay nakuhang magduda ni Freddy sa dating katipan. Nagpunta ito sa bahay ng ina ni Ana upang kausapin ang batang anak ni Ana. Natuklasan ni Freddy ang tutuong nangyari at ang testigo ay ang anak ni Ana. Sa closing ng kaso ay inihayag ni Freddy na walang kasalanan si Ana at ang pumatay kay Bernard ay ang tauhan ng sarili nitong ama. Napawalang sala si Ana at nalaman ni Freddy na ang bata’y ang sarili niyang anak.

The Review: Prinudyus ng Sampaguita Pictures, ang “Pakawalan Mo Ako” ay isa sa mga pruweba na nasa ikataas na puwesto si Vilma Santos nang bagong dekada otsenta. Mula umpisa hanggang sa huli’y umiikot ang istorya sa karakter ni Vilma bilang si Ana, isang escort girl. Markado ang papel ni Vilma at makikita ito sa mga eksena sa kulungan at hukuman. Ang Pakawalan Mo Ako ay mula sa panulat ni Pete Lacaba at iskrinplay nina Pete Lacaba, Mao Gia Samonte at Isko Lopez. Kung ikukumpara sa mga ibang pelikula ni Elwood Perez mas pulido at makatotohanan ang mga eksena’t dialouge ng pelikula. Tulad ng konprontahin nga ma ni Bernard si Ana sinabi nito na: “Puta, Puta! Puta! Hindi lang naman kayo ang unang nagparatang sa akin ng ganyan! Puta! Puta! Putang Ina n’yong lahat…” At nang unang dalhin ni Bernard si Ana sa bahay nito at pagtangkaang gahasain, pumiglas si Ana at sabay kuha sa pera at sabay sabing: “kukunin ko ang bayad sa halik may sukli ka pa!” At siyempre ang eksena sa hukom kung saan paulit ulit niyang sinasabi ang salitang: “Sinungaling!…” Ang musika ni Lutgardo Labad ay minsan nakakaabala sa tunay na eksena ngunit angkop na angkop ang theme song ng pelikula, ang “Dati” na kinanta mismo ni Antony Castelo. Merong mahahabang linya si Christopher DeLeon sa bandang huli at nakuha naman niyang bigyan ng buhay ang papel niya bilang abogado ng taga-usig kahit na parang pilit ang pagpapalit niya ng panig para sa tagapagtanggol sa bandang huli, sa kanyang closing remarks. Alam niya marahil na talagang pelikula ito ni Ate Vi. Mahusay rin ang pagganap ni Antony Castelo bilang isang matigas na ulong anak ng isang mayaman. Sa papel na ina ni Ana, nakaka-distract ang hindi tunay na boses ni Mila Ocampo. Bilang ama ni Bernard San Diego, very one-dimensional ang papel ni Subas Herrero. Ang pinakanakakatuwang papel ay ang papel na kaibigan ni Ana na ginampanan ni Deborah Sun. Meron siyan eksena sa hukuman kung saan tumistigo siya at natural na natural ang pagkababaeng bakla niya. Mabilis ang pacing ng pelikula at walang mahusay ang pagkakaedit nito. Hindi ako nagtaka kung bakit nanalo si Ate Vi para sa pelikulang ito mula sa Famas. Ito rin ang bale hudyat ng pagsibol ng bagong Vilma Santos pagpasok ng dekada otsenta dahil sa sumunod na taon ay nagkasunod sunod na ang parangal sa pagarte ni Ate Vi mula sa iba’t ibang award giving bodies. RELATED READING: Filmography: Pakawalan Mo Ako (1981)

Sagot sa Tribya: 1.D 2.C 3.A 4.B 5.A 6.B 7.C 8.C 9.A 10.B 11.A 12.A 13.A 14.C 15.C 16.C 17.D 18.A 19.D 20.B 21.C 22.A 23.B 24.D 25.C 26.A (Global Vilmanianswords).

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Film Review: Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw

Posted on November 30, 2011 by @ffv Standard

The Plot: “Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw” directed by Celso Ad Castillo started with Nanette (Vilma Santos) meeting Rod (Christopher Deleon) while vacationing in their rest house along the beach. It was clear to both that it was love at first sight but this instant chemistry ended when they discovered they are first cousins. Faith continued to play an important role to their initial attraction as Rod joined Nanette along with her parent to Manila where Rod was permitted by his parent to continue his study. Rod and Nanette at first decided to resist their feeling for each other by dating other people but their love for each other are more intense than what their mind dictates. The two started to have a secret affair culminating to a hot sex when they came back to the rest house when another summer arrives. As expected Nanette gets pregnant and the problem to expose, their taboo affair is ticking. Worst, Nanette’s morning sickness was noticeable to her suspicious mother played wonderfully by Lorli Villanueva. When finally Nanette’s family found out her condition, she was beaten by her angry father but she remained tight lipped to tell who impregnated her. As Rod tried to remained his calm, Nanette’s family locked her to her room until she’s ready to talk. Rod climbed to the balcony to speak to her and that’s when Nanette’s family discovered who is the father. As Rod came down to the balcony, he was cursed by both parents and was beaten by them as Nanette beg for mercy. Rod was hospitalized as his parent came from the province and beg for forgiveness to the angry Julio (Eddie Garcia), Nanette’s father. Julio was fuming and throws the couple out the house. He also mentioned that they are planning to abort Nanette’s baby. When Rod found out from his parents the planned abortion, he left the hospital and went back to his uncle’s house. Very timely, Rod arrives as Nanette together with her family was headed to the abortion clinic. With the help of two security guards, Rod was controlled as his uncle’s car passed him and Nanette cried for intervention. Rod followed the car and was almost successful as the car stopped for the traffic lights. But his attempt failed as the car continued its destination. The end.

The Review: The Catholic Church prohibits marriage between first cousins and it is considered a sin. Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw successfully tackles this topic with convincing scenarios and believable characters. Celso Ad Castillo’s style remained true to many films in the 60s with canned music and repetitive voice over by its two main characters. One scene you will hear Christopher narrates his feelings and the next scene it was Vilma’s turn to speak. Most of this narration or voice over while they are playing in the rain on the streets or on beach. This is the first film by Vilma Santos and Christopher Deleon and it was clear that the two have that chemistry on screen. The film ensemble was quite impressive starting with Eddie Garcia and Lorli Villanueva as Nanette’s parents. As Julio, Eddie Garcia was animated at times but his character balances out the mother role of Lorli Villanueva. Joseph Sytanco’s role as Nanette brother was minimal and he doesn’t have enough lines but his quiet scenes were effective. Johnee Gamboa and Odette Khan’s performance as Rod’s parents were excellent. The agony on Odette’s voice as Johnee, her husband begs for forgiveness on behalf of their son was very believable. The two main characters, Christopher Deleon and Vilma Santos obviously carried the film with surprising maturity. Considering this was their first team-up and both were very young. In 1975, both were still in transitions, from teenybopper stars of the musical era to serious actors. Christopher Deleon’s performance was quite impressive as the apologetic Rod, except for some scenes where you can see his nostril moves, he gave a very affecting performance. Vilma Santos equally balance the equation with a touching show of emotions that we seldom see in her early films that are mostly musicals, fantasy or comedies. Three scenes stand out. First was in the bus where she confronted her “Kuya Rod” to not to give-up on their relationship. Second when her parents caught them in the balcony. She begs them to stop beating up her “Kuya Rod.” And then finally, the driving to the abortion clinic scene, she cried her heart out begging them to stop and cried for help to her “Kuya Rod,” who was running behind and trying very hard to stop the car. Celso Ad Castillo successfully gave us a very moving film.

Even with the very annoying number of voice-over scenes, scenes that you will hear the two main characters talks but you will see them not opening their mouth, the film has so many good qualities that you will forgive these flaws. We probably attributed these flaws to the style of many films in the 60s and 70s. Ricardo David’s cinematography was excellent particularly the many scenes on the streets. You can see many spontaneous shots of people that were gawking at Christopher Deleon running like a maniac. David’s very intricate camera work inside the car, dinner table and at the living room while Nanette’s mother was playing piano adds to the intense mood of the film, this is despite some shot where you can see the shadow of the camera particularly when Christopher left the house because he can’t stand to see Nanette being slap repeatedly by her angry father. The film was fast paced, thanks to Augusto Salvador’s editing. There are many scenes where the background music matches the mood like the choir/choral-like music at the very end of the film but Ernani Cuenco used so many canned music that sometimes it was very distracting. Like the voice over style used by Castillo, the musical score used in this film was typical of the 60s and 70s. Even the excellent Lino Brocka film, “Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang” used this kind of style. Overall, Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw was a superb film that highlighted the potential on screen chemistry and talents of the screen team of Christopher Deleon and Vilma Santos. For their fans, I would recommend to have a copy of this classic film. – RV (READ MORE).

“…Celso Ad Castillo: I see the movie in my mind even before I start shooting. I’m meticulous. I control everything on the set, even during post-production — from editing and music to sound. My audience knows my style. It’s like painting: You discover your style, then you do it. I caught “Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw” with Vilma Santos and Boyet de Leon on Cinema One the other day, and I clearly saw my own style, in terms of sensitivity, shots and drama. – Ronald Mangubat, Inquirer, 06/09/2007

“…The problem of love in Tag-ulan sa Tag-araw stems not from the lovers per se but from their ill fate as cousins. The factors are both socially dictated and morally stringent, situations that they cannot change no matter what they do. Even if they go on living together, they will still be hounded by the truth. Wherever they go, that truth cannot be proven false. Fate did two unpardonable things to them: bring them together and break them up. It is inevitable to question if it was their fault—or if their love was a fault at all, or if it was the society’s fault, for imposing the way things should be. The film makes a point of raising doubts on our moral attitudes and obligations, without telling us what is right or wrong but simply showing what happens when the doors of people’s minds are closed forever—when refusal to understand ruins happy couples’s lives. All desperation peaks in the end. The heartbreaking ten-minute chase stands as a powerful statement on what love can do in the harshest of circumstances. It is a perfectly executed sequence, that aside from showing the extent of possibilities that they are willing to get themselves into just to be together, it also delivers the horror of the couple’s misery, of the inability of their love to win –of losing each other forever.

First we see Nanette being dragged down the stairs by her father and brother as she begs for her child not be aborted. Rod, coming from the hospital, arrives and screams for mercy. Not to be moved by their plea, the father drives the car out of the house. Rod runs after it, limping, and chases the car in the middle of the road until he catches up. He hits the car, kicks it, and breaks the window. A lot of bystanders look after them. When he is able to jump into the rear of the car, he struggles to hold onto it, as the father willfully swerves the car to drop him behind. He kisses the window. Nanette struggles against her mother and brother holding her. She tries to touch his face in the window. And he falls—he falls hard on the ground. Getting up, he runs again. Levi Celerio’s “‘Yan Ba’y Kasalanan” plays in the background. Everything feels so real and timeless, it can only be real and timeless….” – Richard Bolisay, Lilok Pelikula (READ MORE)

“…Ad Castillo’s Tag-Ulan sa Tag-Araw (Monsoon Rain in Summer, 1975) is about a young man (Christopher de Leon) who dorms with his uncle and aunt and falls in love with his cousin (played by a waiflike Vilma Santos). Ad Castillo tackles the sensational subject of incest by framing the two lovers’ relationship as a kind of innocent affair, taking place in a countryside Eden. It’s the kind of hackneyed concept that really shouldn’t work; the result ought to be less like D.H. Lawrence and more like Emmanuelle. But Ad Castillo happens to have one of the most prodigiously talented eye in all of Philippine cinema, and the heedlessly lyrical manner in which he shot Tag-Ulan transforms softcore porn into something like art. Every rainfall, every shaft of light, every leafy shadow caught by his largely handheld camera makes you catch your breath; there is lovemaking without nudity, yet Ad Castillo shoots with such throbbing intensity you are nevertheless aroused…” – Noel Vera, Critique After Dark, 06 December 2012 (READ MORE)