Longest-reigning Movie Queen – “Since I started writing 500 years ago — people think I’m that old, anyway — it has been my tradition to write New Year’s wishes for the incoming year. My wishes have always revolved around show business. This year, however, my list straddles both showbiz and politics, especially since some personalities implicated in the flood control program scandal also happen to be entertainers. So here are my wishes for 2026…For Vilma Santos’ stature in showbiz not to collapse completely because of the controversy hounding her at the moment. This is the one where she supposedly said they were being criticized because they were “up there” and the rest were “down there.” Clearly, she did not say that. An old interview, pertaining to a different topic, was re-edited to ruin her reputation. With her archrival Nora Aunor gone, Vilma is now the longest-reigning movie queen. She has accomplished so much in entertainment, and it would be a shame for her career to end in scandal…” – Butch Francisco, Daily Tribune, 02 Jan 2026

Nakalimutan And Isang Dekadang Paglilingkod – “…Unfortunately, a clipped video has led to malicious and disrespectful criticism, na tila nakalimot sa kanyang dekadang paglilingkod, integridad at pagmamahal sa Batangas at pamilyang Pilipino. Ika nga sa amin sa Batangas: ‘Ang punong hitik ang mga sanga, pilit pinupukol pagkat namumunga’…I stand by Governor Vilma, because I know her. Nasaksihan ko nang malapitan ang kanyang pamumuno. Nakita ko ang malasakit at dedikasyon na mayroon siya at ang hindi matitinag na paninindigan sa paglilingkod sa bayan. Para sa akin, wala itong kinalaman sa politika. Ito ay para sa katotohanan, katarungan, at katapatan ng isang taong buong-pusong nag-alay ng sarili para sa kapwa…” – Mark Leviste, Politiko, 28 Dec 2025

On Bashers and Fake News Peddlers – ““Kung minsan papabayaan mo na lang in a way. Sinasight ko ang sarili ko na kaya niyo kami tinitira kasi nasa taas kami at kaya kayo tumitira kasi nasa baba kayo. And at the same time nakasight din sa sarili ko there are some people yun talagang nagbabash lang walang intensyong iba ah. Ang sina-sight ko ang sarili ko na you know these people siguro kasi gusto nila nandun sila sa lugar mo and it’s so unfortunate hindi nila makaya.” – Hon. Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, Reported by Jeel Monde, Philippine News, 24 Dec 2025

Good As Your Last Film – “…Reflecting on how she has remained relevant after more than six decades, Ate Vi’s answer came with her trademark humility. “I was never afraid to reinvent myself and to keep learning,” she said in a group interview off stage. “Just because you win Best Actress doesn’t mean you’re the best. You’re only as good as your last film — and after that, there’s always someone better than you.” Her philosophy, she added, is something she hopes the younger generation of actors will embrace. “My advice to them is keep learning, take risks and love your career so it will love you back. Most of all, remember to always be grateful because the same people you meet on your way up will also be the same ones you’ll meet on your way down…” – Reported by Tessa Mauricio-Arriola, Manila Times, 29 October 2025

Sidekick of Darna – “Dondon Nakar, a singer-actor who was beloved as a matinee idol in the 1970s, has died, his family confirmed. He was 66 years old…Born Guillermo Nakar III, he started his entertainment career as a winning contestant in the Tita Betty’s Children’s Show, a talent search on ABS-CBN. This launched his music and acting career, in which he was known for his iconic sidekick role as “Ding,” the younger brother of Narda/Darna in the series of “Darna” films, starring Vilma Santos. He was later on built as one-half of the love team with Winnie Santos, sister of Vilma, though he was also linked to their other sister, Maritess. He also starred in the 1971 film “Alaala ng Pag-ibig,” and is also notable for his appearances in “Darna and the Giants,” “Tondo Girl,” “King Khayam and I,” “Binhi,” and “Ang Barbaro at si Genghis Khan.” Nakar earned widespread recognition after being one of the mainstay stars of musical variety show “Apat na Sikat,” which also starred Maribel Aunor, Arnold Gamboa, and Winnie Santos. It aired on IBC from 1975 to 1981.” – Reported by Hannah Mallorca, Inquirer, 29 November 2025

Most Critical and Unflinching – “…Despite the violence, Lacaba did not waver. Besides going on to write Jaguar, his other major works on the silver screen include co-writing the screenplay for Sister Stella L., a 1984 martial law drama directed by Mike de Leon that follows its titular nun (played by Vilma Santos) as she slowly begins to realize that she must take a stand against the Marcos regime. “Kung hindi tayo kikilos,” she says, “sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa?” Film critic Noel Vera even notes how Sister Stella L. is more a Lacaba film than De Leon’s. “So distinctive is his authorial voice,” Vera wrote. Although Sister Stella L. was a commercial failure upon its release, it has since grown to become one of Philippine cinema’s most critical and unflinching looks at the martial law era. “Just as the film is about Stella L.’s political awakening,” wrote Slate Magazine, “De Leon and Lacaba clearly aimed for the narrative to be a wake-up call for their audiences.” In 2024, it was announced that Sister Stella L. was undergoing digital restoration at the L’Immagine Ritrovata in Bologna, Italy. But Lacaba was not critical of Marcos’ regime alone. The 1989 Brocka-directed thriller Orapronobis, which screened at the 1989 Cannes’ Out of Competition section, pointed a subtle finger towards those using former president Corazon Aquino’s rise to power for their own, bloody gains. Set in the optimistic days after the People Power Revolution, Orapronobis follows ex-revolutionary Jimmy Cordero (Salvador), who, after investigating the acts of terror committed by the movie’s titular terrorist cult, learns that the only path towards social justice is far from a peaceful one. “The message… is intended to alert the rest of the world to what has happened to the dream of democracy promised by Mrs. Aquino,” wrote The New York Times. “Following the lead of Amnesty, [the film] does not directly blame the President, but those of her supporters who are using her revolution for their own ends.” Lacaba’s life and work remind us that activism, in its many forms, has become embedded in our country’s historical struggle towards social justice. “To deny these stories is to attach the truth,” wrote his son. “To deny these stories is to repeat the violence dealt to the victims, and to insult ourselves as a people.” In the face of another wave of government scandals and increasingly frustrating examples of corruption, revisiting Lacaba’s oeuvre serves as a reminder that the country has navigated these storms before and can do so once again…” – Mel Wang, Rolling Stone PH, 29 Sep 2025

Vilma Santos and the legacy of excellence – “The Manila Hotel sparkled with star power as the 73rd Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards celebrated the country’s finest in cinema. Beyond the golden trophies, it was the actors and actresses who took center stage — each win telling a story of artistry, resilience and triumph…The room erupted as Vilma Santos, the Star for All Seasons, accepted the FAMAS Circle of Excellence Award. The honor paid tribute not just to her legendary career, but to the countless roles that defined generations of Filipino filmgoers. Her presence was a reminder of how the past, present, and future of cinema remain connected by stars who inspire…” – Reported by Jefferson Fernando, Daily Tribune, 24 Aug 2025

One Film for the next three years – “…I would love working with Coco…Pero sa ngayon, priority natin ang paglilingkod sa mga Batangueño. Kaya hihirit lamang ako sa kanila ng isang project sa loob ng tatlong taon…” – Hon. Governor Vilma Santos-Recto, Governor, Province of Batangas, Philippines, reported by Carlos Aragon, LionhearTV, 23 Aug 2025

Luminous SSL: “… “Sister Stella L.” is unmistakably a political film; it might be most remembered for the magnetic presence of Vilma Santos, the Queen of Philippine Cinema, in one of her most iconic roles, but it remains a textbook illustration of Marxism For Dummies in dialogue with the Fioretti of St. Francis…Vilma Santos, draped in her pale grey-blue habit, is luminous…” – Jean Claude, Asian Movie Pulse, 9 July 2025

Delayed is Not Denied – “…Hindi lang ako nakatulog masyado ng isang gabi. Ganun talaga ang mundo, hindi lang sa politika. Hindi ako nakapahinga ng siguro mga a day or two. Not because ‘talo’ ako, not because of that, but because alam ko [kasi] ang gusto kong gawin para sa Batangas. Delayed is not denied, natutunan ko yan, nabasa ko yan…” – Luis Manzano, reported by Chris Franco, Kami, 13 June 2025

The next Recto legislator – “…Also entering the lower chamber as a congressman in July is Ryan Christian, son of Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph Recto and Batangas governor-elect Vilma Santos. Ryan Christian has a degree in Business Management at Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU). Although he is a newbie in the political world, this incoming Batangas congressman practically grew up in a household ran by politicians with proven staying power in the province. Governor Recto is a former House deputy speaker in then 18th Congress; while DOF Secretary Recto is both a former senator and deputy speaker, having held the latter post in the early days of the 19th Congress. Ryan Christian has been relatively low profile in a family of astute politicians and showbiz icons, but he will finally have his chance to shine as a lawmaker in the 19th Congress…” – Ellson Quismorio, Manila Bulletin, 31 May 2025

Outstanding Living Legends – “Last Monday’s column (see “Let us celebrate Women Suffrage Day,” 4/21/2025) elicited a lot of responses saying I should not limit myself only to those directly responsible for the grant of suffrage to Filipino women but should hail others who excelled in many private endeavors, achieving equality if not superiority with the other gender. Let’s call them the power women of the Philippines in the private professions whom I have met or know about…Not to be outdone, Joji Alonso — an independent film producer and well-known labor lawyer—submitted these outstanding living legends in the movie industry (alphabetically): Laurice Guillen, Rosemarie Gil, Hilda Koronel, Gina Pareño, Boots Anson Roa Rodrigo, Celia Rodriguez, Caridad Sanchez, Charo Santos, Vilma Santos, and Nova Villa…And Vilma, while keeping her movie allure, reinvented herself successfully as Lipa City mayor, Batangas governor and Batangas congressional representative…” – Artemio V. Panganiban, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 28 April 2025

Vilma’s Quiet Tribute to Nora – “…In an age where public gestures often drown in performance, what Vilma Santos did was the exact opposite – and that’s precisely what made it resound. Her quiet presence at Nora Aunor’s wake was not just an act of respect. It was a statement. A silent salute from one titan to another. A final bow to a fellow queen – without words, without spectacle, without agenda. Vilma did not need to perform her grief. She lived it, walked it – and embodied it in the most Vilma way possible – understated yet unforgettable. Her silence had the weight of a thousand tributes. Because when you are Vilma Santos, you don’t need to prove anything. You simply show up, and the moment becomes meaningful. This is the essence of her unparalleled stardom: not built on noise, but on consistency, character, and credibility. Through every chapter of her legendary career, Ate Vi has shown us that greatness isn’t about outshining others – it’s about elevating everyone, even your fiercest rivals. And in her relationship with Nora, there was rivalry, yes – but there was also deep reverence, and a rare kind of recognition that only true equals can offer each other. Let’s not forget – they were not just onscreen competitors. They were mag-kumare. They stood on opposite ends of fandom wars, but they shared something no one else could claim: a mirrored history of brilliance, struggle, and cultural impact. Their bond was complex, but real. And in her final gesture, Ate Vi honored that bond with the kind of authenticity that doesn’t need a spotlight. Vilma’s quiet visit was not for the headlines. It was for Nora. For the memories they forged, the history they built, and the legacy they now share. It was for the friendship that endured beyond scripts, beyond studios, beyond showbiz politics. This is why she remains unmatched. This is why she is The Last Movie Queen Standing. Because long after the lights fade and the cameras stop rolling, it is the soul of the woman – and not just the star – that endures. And Vilma Santos? She will endure. Because she knows when to speak, and when to simply be. And in that moment of quiet, she was everything – grace, loyalty, humility, and strength. That was not just a tribute to Nora. That was a masterclass in humanity…” – Nonong Noriega, posted by Jeannie Wong, Vilmates FB Group Page, 23 April 2025

Farewell to Ate Guy – “Emotions ran high as celebrities Vilma Santos, Gina Alajar and Melissa Mendez, among others, attended the first day of the wake of the late superstar Nora Aunor. Santos, who was among the first to offer her condolences in person, was seen wiping her tears as she exited the building at the Heritage Park in Taguig City on Thursday, April 17. Despite the media-fueled rivalry and fan wars between their respective fanbases, the “Noranians” and “Vilmanians,” Aunor and Santos were long-term friends and had repeatedly expressed admiration for each other. The two women worked together in the films “T-Bird at Ako” (1982) and “Ikaw ay Akin” (1978), both critically acclaimed…Aunor died on Wednesday after undergoing a medical procedure. She was 71. In a press conference, her son Ian de Leon clarified that his mother did not die during the medical operation but only afterward…” – Jessica Ann Evangelista, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 18 April 2025

CHR Statement – “…The Commission sternly reminds the public that freedom of religion is a fundamental right enshrined in the Philippine Constitution. Any attempt to vilify a religious or cultural group for political gain is not only disrespectful but also threatens long-standing efforts to promote peace, understanding, and inclusivity in the region. Such fear-mongering tactics not only inflame prejudice but also endanger the fragile culture of peace nurtured in Mindanao over decades of dialogue and cooperation. It is alarming that women continue to be the subject of discriminatory and demeaning remarks—especially by public officials who are expected to lead by example and advocate for inclusive, safe spaces. Resorting to misogynistic rhetoric in an attempt to gain political traction not only undermines women’s dignity but also normalizes sexism in public discourse. The recent incident involving a Batangas gubernatorial candidate, who made ageist and sexist comments against fellow candidate and former Governor Vilma Santos-Recto—saying she is already “laos” or past her prime—further reflects the continuing pattern of gender-based attacks during the campaign season. The Commission acknowledges the swift action taken by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in addressing both incidents. Show-cause orders were issued to the involved candidates for possible violations of election laws and fair election conduct. CHR welcomes these measures and continues to support actions that hold candidates accountable for discriminatory speech and behavior…” – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR), 10 April 2025

Iconic Book – “…The book is a collection of 19 essays by academics and scholars from top universities. “It’s an intensive study of Ate Vi’s work,” said Aguila. “Only articles by authors with master’s and doctorate degrees were included. It is hoped that these essays by leading academics would provide not only a guidepost to navigate through Santos’ extraordinary body of work across six decades, but also define more fully her legacy as an actress, artist, and cultural icon,” Zulueta added. His own contribution to the book analyzes Santos’ roles in “Burlesk Queen,” “Rubia Servios,” and “Tagos ng Dugo” through the lens of abjection, a concept by Bulgarian-French philosopher Julia Kristeva. The idea is that society often rejects what it finds unclean or threatening, and women have been unfairly cast into this marginalized space. But abjection, Zulueta argued, can also be a source of power. “Vilma’s portrayals show how strength can emerge from struggle,” he explained. “Her daring performances exemplify what Kristeva calls the ‘singularity of genius’—the blending of life and thought, the ability to renew oneself. It’s a quality found in icons like political thinker Hannah Arendt and writer Colette. It applies to Santos, too…” – Marinel Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, 15 March 2025

Laos Issue ni Ilagan – “…Kung ang aking kalaban ay si Kathryn Bernardo, pero ang aking kalaban ay isang Vilma Santos lang na laos na. Hindi ako takot. Kung si Kathryn Bernardo at si Andrea Brillantes ay takot ako. (If my opponent is Kathryn Bernardo [I’d be scared], but my opponent is just a Vilma Santos who is already outdated. I’m not scared. If it were Kathryn Bernardo and Andrea Brillantes, I’d be scared.) Pero Vilma Santos, marami naman sa mga fans niyan ay namamahinga na rin. Ang iba naman ay hindi naman, syempre nasa edad ‘yan (But Vilma Santos, many of her fans are already “resting.” Others, of course, are already old)…” – Jay Manalo Ilagan, Vice mayor of the municipality Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas, as reported by Dominique Nicole Flores, Philstar, 07 April 2025

Working with Vi – “…Si Vilma, kumbaga ang shooting will only take about four months, it took us about eight to nine months. Kasi nga ang gugulo ng schedule, so naging close ‘yung kaibiganan, pupunta sa set, matutuloy ba or hindi, may pack up, may kwentuhan masaya…” – Ronnie Rickets, from Lutong Bahay TV show, GMA Integrated News, 05 March 2025

Vi is Barako – “..Even if I’m a woman, I have a ‘barako’ side. I have palabra de honor so when I deal with someone who does not keep his word, that ticks me off. I turn into a barako. I’m a confrontational person. You won’t like me when I’m mad. Ralph, Luis and Ryan are all barako in their own way. Ralph would not be where he is now if he wasn’t tough. Luis managed to step out of my shadow and his dad’s shadow. Even if Ryan is living a comfy life, he does not shield himself from reality…” – Vilma Santos-Recto, as reported by Dolly Anne Cavajal, The Philippine Star, 20 Feb 2025

On Political Dynasty Issue – ““I think my brother said it perfectly naman. We are here to serve the people, and the choice will always be theirs.” – Ryan Christian Recto, reported by Jan Milo Severo, Philstar, 17 February 2025

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