Vilma Santos is a popular multi-awarded actress and politician in the Philippines. She's known as the "Queen of Philippine Movies," "Queenstar" and "Star for All Seasons." She is currently the Congresswoman of District of Lipa, Batangas (Philippines). This site is mostly about her film career.
When it Rains, It Pours – “…Ate Vi to fans and friends, the enduring actress was born in 1953. She turns 64 on her birthday counting more years of contribution to society both as a public servant and as movie queen…Incidentally, Caveat was one of the few friends from the press made to sit with the audience during the taping, giving ample time to exchange pleasantries with the actress while she was in the holding area. The conversation meandered to her recent tour de force performance in “Everything About Her” which earned her Best Actress Award from the 1st Eddys Award given to her by the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors or SPEED. This was followed by another Best Actress Award for the same film bestowed on her by the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Movies…It is also worth mentioning that the Star for All Seasons was also bestowed Best Actress Award for the same film by Tony Awards Philippines from its founder and fearless film critic Tony Aguilar. The critic, who also comes out annually in his entertainment column with a list of worst films and worst performers, even thinks “Everything About Her” would have stood a bigger chance at the Oscars than the “Birdshot” of Mikhael Red. Other Best Actress Awards that Vilma Santos earned for “Everything About Her” included the 1st Guild of Educators & Mentors (GEM) Awards, Gawad Tanglaw, Pasado Award, and Philippine Entertainment Portal ( PEP’s) List of Awardees. Indeed, in a manner of speaking, when it rains awards it pours as well…” – George Vail Kabristante, Manila Times, 27 October 2017 (READ MORE)
Gigi – “…The role of Gigi was meant to conunterpoint the labor problem. Other scenes could have been included which would highlight that Vilma had some success with her counselling job.” May mga puna sa pelikula, tulad ng mga may pagka-talky raw ito? “Yeah, napansin din ng iba ito. I was worried that the film was becoming more talky as we went on, pero sabi ni Mike, talk is as important as the visuals.” May pagka-claustrophobic daw ang effect ng pelikula? “I think it was deliberate. I can remember Mike telling our production designer, Cesar Hernando, to give a claustrophobic effect to the sets, particularly the interiors. With regard to the criticism na ang mga workers ay malilinis, ang masasabi ko, ang mga trabahador sa isang factory ng cooking oil ay malilinis naman.” Pagkapanood mo ng pelikla, anong bahagi ang nais mo pang baguhin? “Maaari kong dagdagan ang mga eksena sa Caritas na ipinapakita ang ibang alaga roon, at gusto ko ring ipakita ang relasyon ni Vilma sa kanyang pamilya. Kung tatanungin ako, na kung dapat inabuso pa si Vilma sa kamay ng mga goons, hindi yon totoo, wala pa naman akong nalalaman na ginagawa yon sa mga madre, sa aking pagkakaalam.” Anong mga reaksiyon ng mga nanood na sa pelikula? “Generally positive. That is as far as the selected audiences where the pricture was shown. Generally, sabi nila, masakit daw, nakakakonsyensiya daw, nakakagalit. May kanyang pala-palagay sa mga detalye.” Personally, what is the merit of the film? “I hope it can change the perceptions of people with regard to certain realities, open their eyes probably. Well, the censors felt it was not subversive, not anti-government. Sana hindi mangyari sa pelikula ang ginawa nila sa pelikulang Sakada…” – Mike Feria, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, 06 July 1984, Posted by James DR, 21 July 2016 (READ MORE)
Vilma’s “Katuparan” on GMA-7 Tonight – Vilma Santos’second venture into television production, the tele-movie “Katuparan” is scheduled for telecast tonight on Channel 7, 8 to 10. “Katuparan” teams up Vilma for the first time with action star Ronnie Ricketts (with Vilma above). Together, they pit acting talents with veteran actor Dante Rivero. Ronnie plays Vilma’s ex-boyfriend and Dante plays Ronnie’s older brother who married Vilma. Adapted from the foreign telemovie “The Fulfillment of Mary Gray,” “Katuparan” is directed by Marilou Diaz Abaya and written by Raquel Villavicencio. – Mike Herrera, from Facebook.
Superb Child Star – ” Vilma Santos started her movie career in 1963 at a young age of 9 in a movie, “Trudis Liit,” which she topbilled along with veteran stars Lolita Rodriguez and Luis Gonzales. She won the FAMAS Best Child Actress for her superb performance in that movie…At the age of 9, Vilma was tapped to star opposite Gloria Romero & Rita Gomez in the movie “Anak, ang Iyong Ina.” She was discovered by her uncle Mr. Amaury Agra, who was a cameraman at the Sampaguita Studios. When she, together with her mother went to the Sampaguita compound to report, an audition was going on. Seeing the more than a hundred kids auditioning, Vi went and watched. Dr. Jose Perez, producer of Sampaguita, saw the little Vi and asked her to join the audition. Vi was hesitant because she know that she’s there for a different movie, but she was prodded to join. When her turn came, she acted with veteran Bella Flores. All the people were impressed, much more Dr. Perez! Vilma got the title role for the movie “Trudis Liit.” So, that at age 9, she was making two movies at the same time! She continued doing movies as daughter of big stars Gloria Romero, Lolita Rodriguez, Rita Gomez, Marlene Dauden, Eddie Rodriguez and a lot more. In 1968, at the age of 15, she got the Best Supporting Actress award from the San Beda College awards for the movie “Kasalanan Kaya?” She was also nominated for a FAMAS award…” – Eric Nadurata, Reposted by Simon Santos, Video48, 04 November 2007 (READ MORE)
Guaranteed Immortality – “The year was 1982, exactly two decades ago, and we well remember being enthralled by the sheer force of its powerful images and quietly devastating performances. We are one of the blessed few who own a video tape copy of the film that has remained, through the years, Nora Aunor’s signature film. The pint-sized superstar delivered a miracle of a performance as Elsa, the false visionary. Perhaps, the finest performance by a Filipino actor ever recorded on celluloid. If the diminutive multimedia luminary ever decides to leave the movies for good, Himala is enough reason to guarantee her of immortality…we believe that Nora Aunor should have swept all the best actress awards for that particular year. She was pitted against Vilma Santos’ heartfelt portrayal of the mistress in Relasyon and the latter scored a grandslam. This is not to belittle Santos’ portrayal but if one were to be objective, it would be easy to see that Aunor had the more complex role and only an actress of her caliber can pull off the part with much persuasion. It calls for a restrained, self-effacing acting style. And Aunor, the consummate actress that she was (take note that we used the past tense because the more recent film outings of the actress are far from her best. She has become very florid, like a bad version of a hysterical Charito Solis), strikes not a false note in her performance. It is, in one word, mesmerizing. And Himala is without a scintilla of a doubt the pinnacle of her cinematic achievements…” – Arnel Resma Ramos, reposted by Simon Santos, Video48, 29 December 2007 (READ MORE)
Fernado Poe Jr. and Vilma Santos: 1974 Box Office King and Queen – “Action King Fernando Poe, Jr. and Vilma Santos were awarded the Box-Office King and Queen in 1974. That year, both stars starred and appeared in the movie, “Batya’t Palu-Palo,” a sensational hit.” – Simon Santos, FPJ-daking, 26 March 2009, Photo credit: Eric Nadurata (READ MORE)
For Miss X: Off to Amsterdam With Vilma Santos and Party – “Miss Vilma Santos and her entourage which includes her mommy and daddy flew off to Amsterdam one Sunday afternoon para sa pelikulang Miss X ng Sining Silangan which will be shot ther in entirety. The group who saw them off at the airport was headed by Jesse Ejercito and some Sining Silangan bigwigs, fans of Vilma at ilang close friends from the press. Nauna rito ay nagkaroon ng ilang tenaw moments ang mga tao sa likod ng proyektong ito nang kung ilang ulit na mabalam ang pagalis ni Vi. We understand from some sources that the company was about to make a sudden change of decision kaugnay ng roles ni Vi nang biglang makahulagpos ang superstar sa kanyang mga commitments dito at ipasiyang lumipad na nga patungong Amsterdam. Ayon sa aming balita, matapos ang shooting doon ay tutuloy sa Los Angeles si Vi together with her parents upang duon idaos ang kanyang birthday, Nov. 3. This decision of hers of course saddened many of fans here pero parang higit diumano ang axiety ngayon ng Bancom, Regal at Lea dahil umano’y slated si Vi na gumawa ng pelikula sa kanila. Bancom for one is pinning their hopes on the early return of Vi dahil ang pelikulang ito si Charito Solis at siyang isasagupa sa tambalang Nora-Lolita Rodriguez naman ng para rin sa festival.” – Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, October 29, 1979, Posted by James DR, 28 October 2017 (READ MORE)
Tuloy na tuloy na. Anytime now the cameras will grind. At ang magkakasama ay ang pinanabikan ng lahat sina Erap at Guy. Yes si Mayor Joseph Estrada at si darling bulilit Nora Aunor. Together, tiyak na theyèll be a riot twosome sa pelikulang Erap is My Guy. Sa titulo na lang, click na. And for sure, pipilahan ito. Just right for the new pair. No hindi sila love team. More of Magka-sidekick.
While showbiz is agog sa big news na ito, mukhang another equally gigantic happening ay nasa planning stage. The King himself, FPJ, ay makakasama naman ng sweet na si Baby Vi, Vilma Santos. So may Guy si Erap pero si Ronnie may Vi. Aba, sapak rin. Ano, mas mabigat ba? No huwag natin silang i-compare. Dahil hindi naman sila talu-talo. As far as some scribes are concerned, Nora and Vi have kissed and made-up.
Ngayon, kung may kaunti pang samaan ng loob na namamagitan sa kanila, despite publicities and printed materials na nagbati na sila, that is for the two to decide. Whereas kind Ronnie at Erap, alam natin ang real score…para silang magkapatid, parang nag-blood compact. Ilang taon nang tested ang friendship nila. Come hell or hi-water, nadoon pa rin ang dalawang chokaran, together they stand, divided they fall.
So, marmi ngang nagulat nang napadalaw si Ronnie sa shooting ni Vilma. More than once. At ang malimit na biro ni Ron, malapit silang magkasama sa isang super-production. Noon ngang unang dalaw ni Ronnie sa set ni Vi, ang biniro niya ay sina Jay Ilagan at Edgar Mortiz who happened to be her leading men sa ginagawang pelikula. At ang bulong ni Ron kay Vi, “Huwag mo na ngang pansinin ang dalawang iyan. Marami naman silang chicks.”
Kaya nga the loudest whisper ay ito, although it isn’t on the record yet. May kasunduan ang TIIP at FPJ. Na malamang, makasama si Ronnie sa war picture ng TIIP where he co-stars with Jay, Edgar and some young stars. Na matapos ito, sina Jay naman ang gagawa sa FPJ. Though maliwanag na malapit na ring magsama sina Ronnie at Vilma, malakas rin ang posibilidad na mag-change partners sina Joseph at FPJ.
Chances are matapos ang pelikula nina Erap at Guy, si Guy naman ang gagawa sa FPJ. And Erap’s next target might be Vilma. While patuloy nga ang paglakas pa sa takilya nina Erap at FPJ as the real McCoy superstars, marami rin ang nagtatanong kung darating pa ba raw ang panahon na maabot ng ibang young male stars ang kanilang kinaroroonan. Jay Ilagan in place of FPJ – that is if the latter decides to retire.
Kasi, hindi mo basta mapapalitan ang isang institusyon like FPJ. Para siyang haligi na kahit dumating pa ang lindol o bagyo ay maiiwang nakatindig. Ang who’ll succeed Erap? It could be anyone – like Pip? or Cocoy? Edgar? We can’t think of anyone na hindi bantog sa music world ang puwedeng kandidato. The trouble nga with out young stars ay napakarami nila. Pero kaunti lang ang gusto ng publiko. Kakaunti ang pumapasa.
Mas marami ang mga bumabagsak. At this stage, marami rin ang humuhula: If Erap is paired with Guy and Ronnie with Vilma, then malaki rin ang posibilidad na the following witll emerge: Susan-Jay starrer; and Amalia-Pip flick; at ilang pang combination ng senior at junior superstars. Pero ang maganda nga nito, beautiful ang kanilang samahan. Walang intrigue at no professional jealousy. – Bee Kay Jay, Bulaklak Magazine No.66, 05 February 1973, reposted by Pelikula Atbp (READ MORE)
Never have we attended a party na gano’n karami ang taong dumalo. Terrible talaga! Would you believe ang maluwang na compound ng FPJ Studio sa Del Monte ay naging maliliit at masikip sa tingin dahil sa dami ng taong naroon nung gabing yon? Wow, hindi ko ma-imagine talaga! Ang take note: noong gabing ‘yon. Maiyak-iyak akong talaga sa sakit. Halos lahat ng artista, producer at mga press people, malalaki at maliliit mang pangalan, ay naroong lahat. Punong abala sa pagtanggap ng mga panauhin on the part of Ronnie Poe si Susan Roces, ang kanyang maganda at very charming wife whereas kay Lito L. naman ay si Jesse Chua na halatang siyang ninerbiyos at excited noong gabing ‘yon. Palakad-lakad at table hopping sina Ronnie at Lito sa kanilang mga guests upang ang lahat ay kanilang ma-entertain. Nagkaroon ng commotion at pagkagulo nang dumating si Guy. As usual kasama na naman niya ang kanyang mga PRO’s.
Hinandugan ng awit ni Guy ang mga may kaarawan at nagkaroon pa sila ng dance exhibition ni Lito. Halata namang nahihiya si Guy dahil hindi bigay ang kanyang pagsasayaw. Umawit din si Ronnie Poe ng isang Tagalog song na lagi niyang kinakanta. Sa may kalagitnaan ng kanta, Susan joined him at the stage. Tuwang-tuwa ang lahat, kinikilig na totoo ang mga fans sa paligid. Nagbigay rin ng ilang pangungusap si Mayor Joseph Estrada na binati ang may kaarawan. Umawit pa rin si Lirio Vital pero bago siya umawit ay umakyat sa stage si Director Carlo Caparas, inakbayan siya at nag-whisper sa kanya. Sila ba ngayon? Tanungan ng lahat. Eksaktong alas-dos ng hatinggabi ay sinidihan ang mga fireworks. Wow, ang ganda-ganda talaga! Parang ‘yung mga fireworks sa Luneta kung Bagong taon…O baka mas maganda pa. Beyond description talaga sa galing. Sa kalagitnaan nang mga pagkikislapan ng mga ilaw, ng mga sagitsitan at sali-salimuot na liwanag, biglang appear ang larawan na magkahiwalay nina Ronnie Poe at Lito Lapid. Bilib na bilib talaga ang lahat ng naroon. Superb ang idea para sa promotion ng pelikulang Kalibre 45. Saludo kami. – Emy S. Vivar, Fely D. Igmat (Photos), Modern Romances, September 8, 1980 (READ MORE)
National Artist – “…“Like all the characters he portrayed, from being ‘Ang Probinsyano’ to his becoming ‘Eseng ng Tondo’; from his struggles in ‘Alamat ng Lawin’ to being a defender in ‘Ang Panday,’ he is a hero to the Filipino masses,” he said. “With this award,’’ Mr. Aquino said, “we hope that thousands more like him will rise and use their talents to lift up the lives of their fellow Filipinos.’’ “Whoever in the coming generations will ask who is FPJ, we will answer them with one voice: He’s the king of Philippine cinema, a national artist who will continue to be part of the lights, camera, action in the life of the whole country…” – TJ Burgonio, Philippine Daily Inquirer, August 17, 2012 (READ MORE)
Beyond Politics – “…Oh my God! It’s true what [the special’s] script says: He was the quiet type. Very sensitive and the most generous man I ever met in the entire industry. Please allow me to generalize. Among all my leading men, no one’s like him. It’s true that if you were his leading lady, he’d treat you like a queen. He’d give you everything you needed and wanted, just to make you feel comfortable. However, he extended the same respect and care to the staff. One time, I craved balut. He bought balut not only for me, but for the entire crew. The mambabalut ran out of balut so Ron asked him to call his vendor friends. Ron treated everyone on the set equally. That’s why he’s the most respected actor in the industry, along with Dolphy. It’s a well-earned respect. You cannot buy that respect. You have to work for it. He was not an overnight success. He started as a stuntman, as an extra. He started from scratch…That was something you shared? Yah! And we both joined politics. When I first ran as mayor [of Lipa in 1998], Ron was among the few people I sought, for advice. He told me one thing: “You can do it. You have the character for politics. But can you give up your earnings as an actress?” (Laughs.) The next time we saw each other was at the wedding of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez in Baguio two years later. I was then running for a second term, so he teased me: “I thought you didn’t want to run?” Then, two years later, we saw each other again at the Metro Manila Film Fest parade, we both had entries then (hers, “Dekada ‘70;” his, “Ang Alamat ng Lawin”). It was my turn to tease him: “I heard you’re running?” I asked if he was really considering it and he told me that he’d rather not, but that he couldn’t ignore the public clamor. Unfortunately, we ended up in different political parties when he ran for president in 2004 (she’s with the administration; he was an oppositionist). We were even pitted against each other. There was a rumor that I didn’t allow him to campaign in Lipa. But our friendship went beyond politics….” – Bayani San Diego Jr., Inquirer, 12 02 2007 (READ MORE)
Leading Ladies – “…Walang itinatangi si Ronnie Poe sa kanyang leading ladies. Pare-pareho ang kanyang pagturing dito. Pag tinatanong mo sina Chat Silayan, Dang Cecilio, Baby Delgado, Coney Reyes, Marianne de la Riva at iba pang mga nakapareha niyang aktres ng ’80s. iisa lang ang kanilang sasabihin, “I feel like a queen on the set sa pag-aasikasong ginagawa sa akin ni ronnie Poe.” Palagay namin, kahit hindi namin naabutan ang mga naging leading lady ni FPJ sa nagdaang mga dekada, ganoon din ang kanilang pagpapalagay sa kanya. Sa ’50s siyempre, ang mga naging kilalang pangalan na nakapareha ni FPJ ay sina Edna Luna, Leonor Vergara, Lani Oteyza, Merle Tuazon, Teresa Mendez, Edita Clomera, Lily Marquez, Aura Aurea, Rosemarie Gil, at iba pa. Sa ’60s, nakapareha niya ang tulad nina Cecilia Lopez, Mina Aragon, Susan Roces, Amalia Fuentez, Helen Gamboa, Divina Valencia, at iba pa. Sa ’70s, pumasok na ang mga pangalan nina Tina Revilla, Elizabeth Oropeza, Charo Santos, Boots Anson-Roa, Marianne de la Riva. Isang nakakatuwang bagay ang naganap kung minsan sa mga pelikula ni Ronnie Poe: nagiging ina niya ang naging leading ladies niya sa nagdaang panahon. Readon: ang mga babaeng kanyang nakakatambal ay napag-iiwanan niya sa panahon. Halimbawa, naging “mopther” ni Ronnie Poe sa ilang pelikula si Rosemarie Gil at si Amalia Fuentes na nakatambal niya noong araw. Walang imposible pagdating sa papel sa isang pelikula. Sa kaso lang ni Amalia sa pelikulang Aguila, sabi niya, “Wag n’yo akong patandain sa pelikula, ang problema niyo kung paano n’yo pababatain si Ronnie Poe!” Of course, kahit naman hindi make-up-an si Ronnie lagi naman siyang mukhang bata, di ba? In fact nagtatagka nga ang marami kung bakit at paano napapanatili ni Da King ang kyang youthful charm. This charm, of course, is what he uses to keep in touch with any of his leading ladies. “Friendship is foremost for my leading ladies,” sabi nga ni FPJ, “Kailangan kasi ang friendship to kep her cool on the set, make her feel relaxed para mas maganda ang chemistry the moment we have some scenes together…” – Arthur Quinto, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, May 31, 1985 (READ MORE)
Susan Roces bares what saved her marriage with Ronnie Poe – “Despite the usual showbiz intrigues that have come their way, the marriage of Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces remains among the more durable relationship in showbiz. What could be their secret. “We’re friends! That’s very, very important in a relationship,” said Susan Roces. “Kasi, if you’re just lovers, it wears off easily. I love you, heart and soul. One hundred percent. Dapat ikaw din. Ako lang ang mahal mo, Ganoon. That’s when a person becomes so possessive na nakakasakal ba. If you’re friends, mas maganda. You can tell your wife or your husband certain things at puedeng magkaroon ng certain freedom. Hindi ‘yung sa kanya lang nakatutok ang mata mo that you see all the wrong things he has done and you start imagining what he can do when you’re not beside him.” According to her she and Ronnie agreed from the start to talk things over. “Let me explain,” Ronnie told her, “If there is something I should explain. Hindi ‘yung you’ve already made a conclusion based on what you read or heard na minsan naman eh hindi totoo.” She said there were times when a woman should be at home for her husband. Pero sa klase ng ating trabaho, this cannot always be so,” explained Susan. “Ako naman, whenever Ronnie shoots a film at alam kong medyo mahihirapan siya, I make it a point to be home para asikasuhin ko siya. I mean, you cannot let the maids take over. Tapos when he is settled at nakapahingana ang I have some other commitments I should attend to, that’s when I go. Wala namang problema doon. I guess it’s just a matter of understanding each other’s needs and the element of trust should always be there. Pag walang trust, malabo talaga.” – Lulubelle Lam Ramos, Manila Standard, May 10, 1991 (READ MORE)
Natatanging Gawad – “…Fernado Poe Jr. will receive the Natatanging Gawad Urian (Lifetime Achievement Award) during the 25th Gawad Urian on May 11 at the Araneta Coliseum…In recognizing Poe (Ronald Allan Kelley Poe in real life), the Manunuri pays tribute to his nearly 50-year career as an actor, director, and producer. Starting as a teenage star and a stuntman in the 1950s, Poe rose to become a defining presense in Philippine movies. In 1956, he starred in “Low Waist Gang,” signalling a shift from the fantasy movies that had become the main fare in local cinema to a gritty realism in action movies. In his next movies such as “Tough Guy” (1957) and “Kamay ni Cain” (1957) and, much later, “Mga Alabok sa Lupa” (1967), “Assedillo” (1971) and “Durugin si Totoy Bato” (1979), Poe perfected the Filipino paragon of the action hero -a peace-loving, sensitive man who is pushed to the wall by oppressive forces and thereby fights back in the defense of the poor and the abused. Today Poe is known as the King of Philippine action movies and one of the stalwarts of the local film industry. The Manunuri is also giving the award in recognition of Poe’s achievements as producer and director. A visionary businessman and an artist in his own right, Poe invested his earning from acting and built his own movie company, FPJ Productions, which has since established a steady record of well-mounted productions that have reaped commercial success. As “Ronwaldo Reyes,” his non de guerre as director, Poe has shown a nearly unerring film sense, trasnforming mass-based but sometimes crude materials like the komiks and popular legends to movies with their own sense of logic and breataking spectacle. Poe as director is a master of locale, color and magic. He chooses his settings carefully and trains a nearly perfect cinematographic eye on everything he frames. His “Panday” series, based on the tawdy Carlo J. Caparas komiks novel, is an awesome orchestration of spectacle, setting and special effects. His more recent movies such as the comedy “Isusumbong Kita sa Tatay Ko” and the action drama “Ang Dalubhasa” show Poe hasn’t lost his touch, retaining an uncanny feeling for the popular taste…” – Philippine Daily Inquirer, Apr 22, 2002 (READ MORE)
Role Model – “…Industry workers have access to information not readily available to ordinary fans. I learned that Ronald Allan Poe was born in 1939, and has five siblings. To be an actor, he dropped out of high school. He started in the movies as a stuntman. He read Hery Miller (“Tropic of Capricorn,” “Black Spring”). And unlike his role in the movies, he enjoys a drink. His name came from the original Pou, a Spanish name, and he is nor in any way related to Edgar Allan. A few years ago, I saw a video of “Shane,” and saw where the FPJ movie formula came from. (:Shane! Sane! Come back, Shane!) I understood why there had to be the young Jay Ilagan character, and why it was important for the boy to witness FPJ being beaten up. Shane never was shown in our sawaliwalled moviehouse, so none of my barkada ever saw it. And I dared reveal my discovery. they would have hated me for breaking their life-long suspension of disbelief. Perfect was the FPJ of our childhood, when characters could be neatly clasified as bida (hero), kontrabida (villain), or “extra.” I joined a concert tour in Mindanao in the early ’80s by the group They Call It Guns, composed of Michael de Mesa, Tirso Cruz III, Bembol Roco, Rez Cortez, and Ruel Vernal. As we prepared to go on a motorcade around Cagayan de Oro City, the organizers warned us not to take Rez, Bembol and Ruel. They were sure that FPJ fans would throw stones at the three kontrabidas in their hero’s life. FPJ was the only role model of my generation. This is why his stature has lingered beyond his prime. The next generations of bida -from Rudy Fernandez to Robin Padilla to Bong Revilla -experimented with the roles of the tarantado, the reformed convict, the womanizer, the man with dark past, the hero with hidden guilt, the coward. These roles played by Erap. While Erap shared the limelifht with FPJ, they seemed to have made an arrangement: FPJ would play the good boys and Erap the bad boys. Whenever they played together, Erap would be the one who got into troubles and FPJ the one who was decent and cautious. It was an excellent arrangement. It ended when Erap entered politics…” – Uro Q. Dela Cruz, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Sep 27, 2003 (READ MORE)
Worshipped Idol – “…Unlike other folks, Ronnie has the heart for the underdogs so that it is often said that he is their champion and savior. Yet, this is one aspect of his public life that is least known. He does things without fanfare. The least known, he said, the better especially his acts of charity. And this spells a great difference between Ronnie and his colleagues. Yet, like any individual, Ronnie has also his faults. He acts on teh spur of the moment which sometimes proves unfortunate. Several times, he has been victimized by opportunists. Ronnie is a sucker for sob stories. Endowed as he is with feet – and feats – of clay, Ronnie is as human as you and I. He has his temper, yes, his idiosyncracies, his lifestyle and manner of dressing, but all told he is one guy who stands ten feet tall in tight and compromising situations. he is at his best when the going is rough, when things seem to go against his favor and this, indeed, proves once more that Ronnie is the idol that he is. A person worth emulating and worshipping for…” – Ross F. Celino, Expressweek, July 13, 1978 (READ MORE)
Fernando Poe Jr. and Vilma Santos
Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko (1996) – ”…In 1996 Vilma Santos did “Ikaw Ang Mahal Ko” with the late FPJ. The film did not do well, both critically and commercially. This year also was a bad year for the local entertainment industry as Ishmael Bernal died on June 2nd. It was reported that he was scheduled to direct a film about the life story of Lola Rosa Henson, the comfort woman during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines. The project was also reportedly offered to Vilma Santos. From 1997 to 2009, Vilma Santos completed 6 full featured films, two were considered record breaking films and almost all gave her acting recognitions including two international best actress recognitions…” – RV (READ MORE)
Mga Mata ni Angelita (1978) – “…Julie Vega was only 10 years old when she was launched to full stardom in the 1978 movie, “Mga mata ni Angelita.” She appeared in previous movie outings as Darling Postigo. The young Vega was ably supported by an all super star cast headed by the King of Philippine Movies, Fernando Poe, Jr. (in the role of Conrado, the ex-convict) and Comedy King Dolphy (as Tacio, the taho vendor). Also appearing in cameo roles were Joseph Estrada (as himself as Mayor); Nora Aunor (a metro-aide sweeper); Vilma Santos ( as a worried wife); Ramon Revilla (as barrio captain); Alma Moreno (as a jealous sweetheart); Christopher de Leon (as the lover) and many more…” – Simon Santos, Video 48 (READ MORE)
Bato sa Buhangin (1976) – “…I really felt very sad as he’s one of the kindest men I ever met. We’ve done 3 films together. The first one was when I was only 19-yrs-old, Batya’t Palo-Palo, a big hit. He was the one who taught me how to swim while we were shooting that movie. Before that, I did Dyesebel where I played a mermaid but I didn’t even know how to swim. This was followed by Bato sa Buhangin. Our last film together was Ikaw ang Mahal Ko, which I did after I gave birth to Ryan Christian. Kuya Ronnie is a gentleman in the strictest sense of the word. Talagang maasikaso siya sa lahat ng kasama niya sa shooting and he feeds everyone with great food all the time. He’s fun to work with kasi palabiro siya at masaya talaga kasama. The whole industry will miss him…” – Mario E. Bautista (READ MORE)
Dugo at Pagibig sa Kapirasong Lupa (1975) – “…A Must for the Filipino History Students and for everyone who wants to awaken the innate nationalism in them. These series of stories depicting the fight of the Filipinos against colonialism of Spain, Japan and even their fellow Filipinos abusing the power in the government. A seemingly serious film but spiced with the star-studded cast like Fernando Poe Jr., Ramon Revilla, Joseph Estrada, Nora Aunor, Dante Rivero, Eddie Garcia, Vic Vargas, Goerge Estregan and the other all time favorite artists. This movie even highlighted the comparison between the love of country and the other kind of love we offer to our family and to our beloved as the story featured love stories in the midst of tragic and bloody war happening in our society…” – Kabayan Central (READ MORE)
Hotdog: Unang Kagat (1975) – “…Even earlier, in 1974, the first Hotdog album “Unang Kagat” resulted in a movie with the band in 1975 with cameos of FPJ, Erap, Guy, Ate Vi, and Boots Anson Roa. The 4th reunion concert showed the band headed by the unassuming genius of Dennis Garcia as still the leader of the Manila Sound genre that fused Tagalog with Taglish. In the show they paid tribute to contemporaries VST & Company, Boyfriends, and Hagibis. The disco group VST with Vic Sotto, Val Sotto, Joey de Leon, Homer Flores, and Spanky Rigor had made famous the songs “Awitin Mo isasayaw Ko” and “Disco Fever” while the audience rose to their feet when Hotdog interpreted VST’s “Rock Baby Rock.” The Boyfriends’ pop and disco hit “Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal” covered by both Lea Salonga and Dingdong Avanzado in their albums was Hotdog’s next tribute. Then, of course, came the Hagibis with their campy imitations of the Village People in “Katawan,” which to this day is a favorite in dance parties…” – Bibsy Carballo, Journal, Dec 04 2011 (READ MORE)
Batya’t Palu-Palo (1974) – “…Nang magkita sina Ronnie at Vilma sa first shooting day sa Montalban, Rizal, halos hindi mapatid ang batian, katiyawan at biruan. Pareho silang masayang-masaya. Sapagka’t at long last daw, natuloy din ang kanilang pagtatambal pagkalipas ng halos kulang sa isang taong paghihintay na ma-vacant si Vilma sa dami ng pelikulang ginawa. As sa simula ng siyuting, akala mo hindi sila magkakilala. Dibdiban ang acting at dialogue. Sunod-sunod ang take ng iba’t ibang angulo. Kalahating araw silang walang biruan at nang matapos ang maraming eksena ay saka lamang sila muling nagtawanan. “Mahirap na,” sabi ni Vi, “Kailangang makarami ng scenes para naman makabawi sa akin ang FPJ. Biruin naman ninyong ang tagal din ang ipinaghintay nila sa akin. Nagpapasalamat ako sa napakahabang patience nila. Kung tulad ng iba, baka pinalitan na lamang ako ng ibang leading lady. Masyado silang professional sa pakikipag-deal, lalo na si Ronnie kaya nahihiya man ako sa atraso, hindi naman makapag-back out doon sa mga naka-schedule ko na. Dapat na tapusain ko rin para walang magalit na producer sa akin…” – Letty G. Celi (READ MORE)
Happy Days are Here Again (1974) – “…In 1974, the Big 3 studios of the 50s, LVN Pictures, Sampaguita Pictures and Premiere Productions reproduced a full-length movie showcasing a compilation of the musical comedies produced by the three studios. It was a painstaking job for the researchers since most of the best musicals produced by the three studios were either lost or destroyed. At the start of the project, director Lamberto V. Avellana was supposed to direct the film but eventually replaced by Cirio Santiago after so many changes in the project including the script. He ended up as consultant of the movie. The film was HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN, with brief narrations by movie stars like Gloria Romero, Nida Blanca, Susan Roces, Leopoldo Salcedo, Jaime de la Rosa, Eddie Gutierrez, Tirso Cruz III, Pugo, German Moreno and Ike Lozada…” – Chris D. Almario, Pelikula Atbp (READ MORE)
Ronald Allan Poe y Kelley (August 20, 1939 – December 14, 2004), better known as Fernando Poe, Jr. and colloquially known as FPJ and Da King, was a Filipino actor and cultural icon. From the 1950s, Poe played steadfast film heroes who fight for the common man, which won him respect and admiration. He did not complete high school but went on to win numerous awards and prizes as an actor and film director. During the latter part of his career, he ran an unsuccessful bid for President of the Philippines in the 2004 presidential election against the former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. In 2011, witnesses revealed in a Senate inquiry that Poe would have won the 2004 elections had there been no cheating. He was honored on May 24, 2006 as Philippine National Artist through Philippine Proclamation No. 1065. – Wikipedia (READ MORE)
On the set of “Alay kay Da King,” a new TV special on the life and times of Action King Fernando Poe Jr., segment host and “Star for All Seasons” Vilma Santos reminisces about her favorite leading man. But, in the middle of a heartfelt spiel, she’s interrupted by a passing ambulance, an airplane … and a tricycle. Since the production is using live sound, such incidental noises can grate on some people’s nerves. Not Ate Vi’s. The Batangas governor jests: “Maybe Ron (FPJ’s nickname) is toying with us.” That’s a seldom-seen side of Da King, she later tells Inquirer Entertainment in an exclusive interview. “He’s a jester.” Paired in three movies (1974’s “Batya’t Palo-Palo,” 1976’s “Bato sa Buhangin” and 1996’s “Ikaw ang Mahal Ko”), they shared an uncommon friendship that withstood the test of time … and, she recalls candidly, political intrigues. Although she’s recovering from an illness, she turned up at the studio in Parañaque, a day after the Manila Peninsula debacle, to tape the TV special, to be aired Dec. 9 on ABS-CBN. The TV special was put together by the Kapamilya network, Asian Eye Productions and the Poe family to premiere a 38-minute music video that was edited by Da King shortly before his passing three years ago. The music video is composed of choice scenes from his 200 or so movies—including those with favorite leading ladies, from Charito Solis to Sharon Cuneta, and favorite co-actors, from Van de Leon to Lito Anzures. Da King’s pet cause, Mowelfund, is the project’s main beneficiary. Highlight of the music video is a scene from “Batya’t Palo-Palo”—which Ate Vi considers “unforgettable.”
What’s it like shooting this TV special? I miss Ron. I really miss Ron. When I saw his pictures on the set, I told everyone: It’s as if he never left us. He’s still here; we just don’t see him.
How did it feel when you saw the wedding scene from your first movie together? Memories! I started reminiscing instantly. I want to ask Ate Susan (Roces, FPJ’s wife) nga for DVD copies of our three movies. I was only 21 when we made “Batya.” Ninety percent of the movie was shot in Hacienda Luisita (Tarlac) where we stayed for two months. He taught me how to swim in the hacienda’s swimming pool. We were with (co-star) Lorna Tolentino then. I admit that I didn’t know how to swim when I did “Dyesebel.” But the most memorable scene [from “Batya”] was the ending, where I ran after him, while he was aboard a train.
What did you call him again? Ron.
What did he call you? Vi! But I call Ate Susan, Ate Susan.
What was the real Ronnie Poe like? Oh my God! It’s true what [the special’s] script says: He was the quiet type. Very sensitive and the most generous man I ever met in the entire industry. Please allow me to generalize. Among all my leading men, no one’s like him. It’s true that if you were his leading lady, he’d treat you like a queen. He’d give you everything you needed and wanted, just to make you feel comfortable. However, he extended the same respect and care to the staff. One time, I craved balut. He bought balut not only for me, but for the entire crew. The mambabalut ran out of balut so Ron asked him to call his vendor friends. Ron treated everyone on the set equally. That’s why he’s the most respected actor in the industry, along with Dolphy. It’s a well-earned respect. You cannot buy that respect. You have to work for it. He was not an overnight success. He started as a stuntman, as an extra. He started from scratch.
That was something you shared? Yah! And we both joined politics. When I first ran as mayor [of Lipa in 1998], Ron was among the few people I sought, for advice. He told me one thing: “You can do it. You have the character for politics. But can you give up your earnings as an actress?” (Laughs.) The next time we saw each other was at the wedding of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez in Baguio two years later. I was then running for a second term, so he teased me: “I thought you didn’t want to run?” Then, two years later, we saw each other again at the Metro Manila Film Fest parade, we both had entries then (hers, “Dekada ‘70;” his, “Ang Alamat ng Lawin”). It was my turn to tease him: “I heard you’re running?” I asked if he was really considering it and he told me that he’d rather not, but that he couldn’t ignore the public clamor. Unfortunately, we ended up in different political parties when he ran for president in 2004 (she’s with the administration; he was an oppositionist). We were even pitted against each other. There was a rumor that I didn’t allow him to campaign in Lipa. But our friendship went beyond politics.
Did you get to talk to him after that? Yah. But we only talked about our friendship. The only time politics was mentioned was when he congratulated me on my work as mayor. He never mentioned the controversies. But that’s Ron. He was a class act. That’s why I have such high respect for him.
What’s the secret of the FPJ charm? It was in his character. He was very malambing (affectionate). When in the mood, he was also a comedian. Very caring.
Why does the masa love him so? That’s the magic of Ronnie Poe. I’m also an actor; my life is the masa, but that’s something I can’t explain.
Was it because he was makatao (pro-people), matulungin (helpful) and mapagkumbaba (humble)? Was it because he made movies that told the stories of the masses? He also gave importance to the principles and struggles of our Muslim brothers. That’s why he’s still well-loved in Mindanao. There’s this famous story. His movie (“Eseng ng Tondo”) was playing in a [Quiapo] moviehouse. In the scene, he was about to be shot by his enemy (played by Chuck Perez). An audience member shouted: “Duck!” Then, someone shot at his enemy on the movie screen!
What were the lessons you picked up from him? That, in spite of your fame and achievements, you should keep your feet on the ground and continue to help those who have less in life.
After doing this special, how did your perception of FPJ change? It just confirmed what I already knew. I really meant every word I said in the spiels. Even if the world turned upside down, no one can replace him. Like I said at the end of my spiel “Long live Ron!” – Bayani San Diego Jr. , Inquirer, Dec 02 2007 (READ MORE)
Total Number of films with Vilma Santos: 5 – Batya’t Palu-Palo, Bato sa Buhangin, Ikaw ang Mahal Ko, Dugo At Pag-ibig sa Kapirasong Lupa, Mga Mata ni Angelita
Ronald Allan Poe y Kelley (August 20, 1939 – December 14, 2004), better known as Fernando Poe, Jr. and colloquially known as FPJ and Da King, was a Filipino actor and cultural icon. From the 1950s, Poe played steadfast film heroes who fight for the common man, which won him respect and admiration. He did not complete high school but went on to win numerous awards and prizes as an actor and film director. During the latter part of his career, he ran an unsuccessful bid for President of the Philippines in the 2004 presidential election against the former president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. In 2011, witnesses revealed in a Senate inquiry that Poe would have won the 2004 elections had there been no cheating. He was honored on May 24, 2006 as Philippine National Artist through Philippine Proclamation No. 1065 (Wikepedia).
Action King Fernando Poe, Jr. and Vilma Santos were awarded the Box-Office King and Queen in 1974. That year, both stars starred and appeared in the movie, “Batya’t Palu-Palo,” a sensational hit. – FPJ Da King (READ MORE)
MANILA, Philippines – On the set of “Alay kay Da King,” a new TV special on the life and times of Action King Fernando Poe Jr., segment host and “Star for All Seasons” Vilma Santos reminisces about her favorite leading man. But, in the middle of a heartfelt spiel, she’s interrupted by a passing ambulance, an airplane … and a tricycle. Since the production is using live sound, such incidental noises can grate on some people’s nerves. Not Ate Vi’s. The Batangas governor jests: “Maybe Ron (FPJ’s nickname) is toying with us.”
That’s a seldom-seen side of Da King, she later tells Inquirer Entertainment in an exclusive interview. “He’s a jester.” Paired in three movies (1974’s “Batya’t Palo-Palo,” 1976’s “Bato sa Buhangin” and 1996’s “Ikaw ang Mahal Ko”), they shared an uncommon friendship that withstood the test of time … and, she recalls candidly, political intrigues.
Although she’s recovering from an illness, she turned up at the studio in Parañaque, a day after the Manila Peninsula debacle, to tape the TV special, to be aired Dec. 9 on ABS-CBN. The TV special was put together by the Kapamilya network, Asian Eye Productions and the Poe family to premiere a 38-minute music video that was edited by Da King shortly before his passing three years ago. The music video is composed of choice scenes from his 200 or so movies—including those with favorite leading ladies, from Charito Solis to Sharon Cuneta, and favorite co-actors, from Van de Leon to Lito Anzures. Da King’s pet cause, Mowelfund, is the project’s main beneficiary. Highlight of the music video is a scene from “Batya’t Palo-Palo”—which Ate Vi considers “unforgettable.”
What’s it like shooting this TV special? I miss Ron. I really miss Ron. When I saw his pictures on the set, I told everyone: It’s as if he never left us. He’s still here; we just don’t see him.
How did it feel when you saw the wedding scene from your first movie together? Memories! I started reminiscing instantly. I want to ask Ate Susan (Roces, FPJ’s wife) nga for DVD copies of our three movies. I was only 21 when we made “Batya.” Ninety percent of the movie was shot in Hacienda Luisita (Tarlac) where we stayed for two months. He taught me how to swim in the hacienda’s swimming pool. We were with (co-star) Lorna Tolentino then. I admit that I didn’t know how to swim when I did “Dyesebel.” But the most memorable scene [from “Batya”] was the ending, where I ran after him, while he was aboard a train.
What did you call him again? Ron.
What did he call you? Vi! But I call Ate Susan, Ate Susan.
What was the real Ronnie Poe like? Oh my God! It’s true what [the special’s] script says: He was the quiet type. Very sensitive and the most generous man I ever met in the entire industry. Please allow me to generalize. Among all my leading men, no one’s like him. It’s true that if you were his leading lady, he’d treat you like a queen. He’d give you everything you needed and wanted, just to make you feel comfortable. However, he extended the same respect and care to the staff. One time, I craved balut. He bought balut not only for me, but for the entire crew. The mambabalut ran out of balut so Ron asked him to call his vendor friends. Ron treated everyone on the set equally. That’s why he’s the most respected actor in the industry, along with Dolphy. It’s a well-earned respect. You cannot buy that respect. You have to work for it. He was not an overnight success. He started as a stuntman, as an extra. He started from scratch.
That was something you shared? Yah! And we both joined politics. When I first ran as mayor [of Lipa in 1998], Ron was among the few people I sought, for advice. He told me one thing: “You can do it. You have the character for politics. But can you give up your earnings as an actress?” (Laughs.) The next time we saw each other was at the wedding of Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez in Baguio two years later. I was then running for a second term, so he teased me: “I thought you didn’t want to run?” Then, two years later, we saw each other again at the Metro Manila Film Fest parade, we both had entries then (hers, “Dekada ‘70;” his, “Ang Alamat ng Lawin”). It was my turn to tease him: “I heard you’re running?” I asked if he was really considering it and he told me that he’d rather not, but that he couldn’t ignore the public clamor. Unfortunately, we ended up in different political parties when he ran for president in 2004 (she’s with the administration; he was an oppositionist). We were even pitted against each other. There was a rumor that I didn’t allow him to campaign in Lipa. But our friendship went beyond politics.
Did you get to talk to him after that? Yah. But we only talked about our friendship. The only time politics was mentioned was when he congratulated me on my work as mayor. He never mentioned the controversies. But that’s Ron. He was a class act. That’s why I have such high respect for him.
What’s the secret of the FPJ charm? It was in his character. He was very malambing (affectionate). When in the mood, he was also a comedian. Very caring.
Why does the masa love him so? That’s the magic of Ronnie Poe. I’m also an actor; my life is the masa, but that’s something I can’t explain.
Was it because he was makatao (pro-people), matulungin (helpful) and mapagkumbaba (humble)? Was it because he made movies that told the stories of the masses? He also gave importance to the principles and struggles of our Muslim brothers. That’s why he’s still well-loved in Mindanao. There’s this famous story. His movie (“Eseng ng Tondo”) was playing in a [Quiapo] moviehouse. In the scene, he was about to be shot by his enemy (played by Chuck Perez). An audience member shouted: “Duck!” Then, someone shot at his enemy on the movie screen!
What were the lessons you picked up from him? That, in spite of your fame and achievements, you should keep your feet on the ground and continue to help those who have less in life.
After doing this special, how did your perception of FPJ change? It just confirmed what I already knew. I really meant every word I said in the spiels. Even if the world turned upside down, no one can replace him. Like I said at the end of my spiel “Long live Ron!” – Bayani San Diego Jr., Inquirer, 12 02 2007
When it Rains, It Pours – “…Ate Vi to fans and friends, the enduring actress was born in 1953. She turns 64 on her birthday counting more years of contribution to society both as a public servant and as movie queen…Incidentally, Caveat was one of the few friends from the press made to sit with the audience during the taping, giving ample time to exchange pleasantries with the actress while she was in the holding area. The conversation meandered to her recent tour de force performance in “Everything About Her” which earned her Best Actress Award from the 1st Eddys Award given to her by the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors or SPEED. This was followed by another Best Actress Award for the same film bestowed on her by the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Movies…It is also worth mentioning that the Star for All Seasons was also bestowed Best Actress Award for the same film by Tony Awards Philippines from its founder and fearless film critic Tony Aguilar. The critic, who also comes out annually in his entertainment column with a list of worst films and worst performers, even thinks “Everything About Her” would have stood a bigger chance at the Oscars than the “Birdshot” of Mikhael Red. Other Best Actress Awards that Vilma Santos earned for “Everything About Her” included the 1st Guild of Educators & Mentors (GEM) Awards, Gawad Tanglaw, Pasado Award, and Philippine Entertainment Portal ( PEP’s) List of Awardees. Indeed, in a manner of speaking, when it rains awards it pours as well…” – George Vail Kabristante, Manila Times, 27 October 2017 (READ MORE)
Gigi – “…The role of Gigi was meant to conunterpoint the labor problem. Other scenes could have been included which would highlight that Vilma had some success with her counselling job.” May mga puna sa pelikula, tulad ng mga may pagka-talky raw ito? “Yeah, napansin din ng iba ito. I was worried that the film was becoming more talky as we went on, pero sabi ni Mike, talk is as important as the visuals.” May pagka-claustrophobic daw ang effect ng pelikula? “I think it was deliberate. I can remember Mike telling our production designer, Cesar Hernando, to give a claustrophobic effect to the sets, particularly the interiors. With regard to the criticism na ang mga workers ay malilinis, ang masasabi ko, ang mga trabahador sa isang factory ng cooking oil ay malilinis naman.” Pagkapanood mo ng pelikla, anong bahagi ang nais mo pang baguhin? “Maaari kong dagdagan ang mga eksena sa Caritas na ipinapakita ang ibang alaga roon, at gusto ko ring ipakita ang relasyon ni Vilma sa kanyang pamilya. Kung tatanungin ako, na kung dapat inabuso pa si Vilma sa kamay ng mga goons, hindi yon totoo, wala pa naman akong nalalaman na ginagawa yon sa mga madre, sa aking pagkakaalam.” Anong mga reaksiyon ng mga nanood na sa pelikula? “Generally positive. That is as far as the selected audiences where the pricture was shown. Generally, sabi nila, masakit daw, nakakakonsyensiya daw, nakakagalit. May kanyang pala-palagay sa mga detalye.” Personally, what is the merit of the film? “I hope it can change the perceptions of people with regard to certain realities, open their eyes probably. Well, the censors felt it was not subversive, not anti-government. Sana hindi mangyari sa pelikula ang ginawa nila sa pelikulang Sakada…” – Mike Feria, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, 06 July 1984, Posted by James DR, 21 July 2016 (READ MORE)
Vilma’s “Katuparan” on GMA-7 Tonight – Vilma Santos’second venture into television production, the tele-movie “Katuparan” is scheduled for telecast tonight on Channel 7, 8 to 10. “Katuparan” teams up Vilma for the first time with action star Ronnie Ricketts (with Vilma above). Together, they pit acting talents with veteran actor Dante Rivero. Ronnie plays Vilma’s ex-boyfriend and Dante plays Ronnie’s older brother who married Vilma. Adapted from the foreign telemovie “The Fulfillment of Mary Gray,” “Katuparan” is directed by Marilou Diaz Abaya and written by Raquel Villavicencio. – Mike Herrera, from Facebook.
Superb Child Star – ” Vilma Santos started her movie career in 1963 at a young age of 9 in a movie, “Trudis Liit,” which she topbilled along with veteran stars Lolita Rodriguez and Luis Gonzales. She won the FAMAS Best Child Actress for her superb performance in that movie…At the age of 9, Vilma was tapped to star opposite Gloria Romero & Rita Gomez in the movie “Anak, ang Iyong Ina.” She was discovered by her uncle Mr. Amaury Agra, who was a cameraman at the Sampaguita Studios. When she, together with her mother went to the Sampaguita compound to report, an audition was going on. Seeing the more than a hundred kids auditioning, Vi went and watched. Dr. Jose Perez, producer of Sampaguita, saw the little Vi and asked her to join the audition. Vi was hesitant because she know that she’s there for a different movie, but she was prodded to join. When her turn came, she acted with veteran Bella Flores. All the people were impressed, much more Dr. Perez! Vilma got the title role for the movie “Trudis Liit.” So, that at age 9, she was making two movies at the same time! She continued doing movies as daughter of big stars Gloria Romero, Lolita Rodriguez, Rita Gomez, Marlene Dauden, Eddie Rodriguez and a lot more. In 1968, at the age of 15, she got the Best Supporting Actress award from the San Beda College awards for the movie “Kasalanan Kaya?” She was also nominated for a FAMAS award…” – Eric Nadurata, Reposted by Simon Santos, Video48, 04 November 2007 (READ MORE)
Guaranteed Immortality – “The year was 1982, exactly two decades ago, and we well remember being enthralled by the sheer force of its powerful images and quietly devastating performances. We are one of the blessed few who own a video tape copy of the film that has remained, through the years, Nora Aunor’s signature film. The pint-sized superstar delivered a miracle of a performance as Elsa, the false visionary. Perhaps, the finest performance by a Filipino actor ever recorded on celluloid. If the diminutive multimedia luminary ever decides to leave the movies for good, Himala is enough reason to guarantee her of immortality…we believe that Nora Aunor should have swept all the best actress awards for that particular year. She was pitted against Vilma Santos’ heartfelt portrayal of the mistress in Relasyon and the latter scored a grandslam. This is not to belittle Santos’ portrayal but if one were to be objective, it would be easy to see that Aunor had the more complex role and only an actress of her caliber can pull off the part with much persuasion. It calls for a restrained, self-effacing acting style. And Aunor, the consummate actress that she was (take note that we used the past tense because the more recent film outings of the actress are far from her best. She has become very florid, like a bad version of a hysterical Charito Solis), strikes not a false note in her performance. It is, in one word, mesmerizing. And Himala is without a scintilla of a doubt the pinnacle of her cinematic achievements…” – Arnel Resma Ramos, reposted by Simon Santos, Video48, 29 December 2007 (READ MORE)
Fernado Poe Jr. and Vilma Santos: 1974 Box Office King and Queen – “Action King Fernando Poe, Jr. and Vilma Santos were awarded the Box-Office King and Queen in 1974. That year, both stars starred and appeared in the movie, “Batya’t Palu-Palo,” a sensational hit.” – Simon Santos, FPJ-daking, 26 March 2009, Photo credit: Eric Nadurata (READ MORE)
For Miss X: Off to Amsterdam With Vilma Santos and Party – “Miss Vilma Santos and her entourage which includes her mommy and daddy flew off to Amsterdam one Sunday afternoon para sa pelikulang Miss X ng Sining Silangan which will be shot ther in entirety. The group who saw them off at the airport was headed by Jesse Ejercito and some Sining Silangan bigwigs, fans of Vilma at ilang close friends from the press. Nauna rito ay nagkaroon ng ilang tenaw moments ang mga tao sa likod ng proyektong ito nang kung ilang ulit na mabalam ang pagalis ni Vi. We understand from some sources that the company was about to make a sudden change of decision kaugnay ng roles ni Vi nang biglang makahulagpos ang superstar sa kanyang mga commitments dito at ipasiyang lumipad na nga patungong Amsterdam. Ayon sa aming balita, matapos ang shooting doon ay tutuloy sa Los Angeles si Vi together with her parents upang duon idaos ang kanyang birthday, Nov. 3. This decision of hers of course saddened many of fans here pero parang higit diumano ang axiety ngayon ng Bancom, Regal at Lea dahil umano’y slated si Vi na gumawa ng pelikula sa kanila. Bancom for one is pinning their hopes on the early return of Vi dahil ang pelikulang ito si Charito Solis at siyang isasagupa sa tambalang Nora-Lolita Rodriguez naman ng para rin sa festival.” – Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, October 29, 1979, Posted by James DR, 28 October 2017 (READ MORE)
Kasi, hindi mo basta mapapalitan ang isang institusyon like FPJ. Para siyang haligi na kahit dumating pa ang lindol o bagyo ay maiiwang nakatindig. Ang who’ll succeed Erap? It could be anyone – like Pip? or Cocoy? Edgar? We can’t think of anyone na hindi bantog sa music world ang puwedeng kandidato. The trouble nga with out young stars ay napakarami nila. Pero kaunti lang ang gusto ng publiko. Kakaunti ang pumapasa.
Star For All Seasons 
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