Tag Archives: FILMS

Filmography: Iginuhit ng Tadhana (1965)

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Basic Information: Direction: Mar S. Torres, Jose De Villa, Conrado Conde; Screenplay: Luciano B. Carlos, Emmanuel H. Borlaza; Additional Screenplay: Chito B. Tapawan; Cast: Luis Gonzales, Gloria Romero, Rosa Mia, Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. (as himself), Vilma Santos (as Imee), Chona (as Irene), Tony Cayado, Ven Medina, Venchito Galvez, Jose Morelos, Marcela Garcia, Lourdes Yumul, Matimtiman Cruz, Renato Del Prado, Pablo Raymundo, Conrado Conde, Jose De Villa, Nenita Navarro, Sabas San Juan, Jaime Javier, Willlie Dado, Jimmy Evangelista, Mariano Honrado, Nellie Madrigal, Rey Tomenes, Emmanuel Borlaza, Marcelino Navarro, Naty Mallares, Aring Bautista, Ding Tuazon, Henry Stevens, Aurora Ilagan, Florencio Tarnate, Abner Villar, Pio Torres, Tita De Villa, Joseph Strait, Remedios Marcos, Vic Pacia, Teddy Valdemor, Joe Salazar, Jose Villafranca; Music: Restie Umali; Directors of Photography: Higino J. Fallorina, Steve Perez, Amaury Agra; President and Executive Producer: Alejandro S. Galang; Production Co.: 777 Films Productions (Philippines); Film Poster: Video 48

Plot Description: Iginuhit ng Tadhana (Carved by Destiny) is a movie based on the life of Ferdinand Marcos prior to his ascendancy as President of the Philippines. The movie was chronological in setting, featuring Marcos as a young boy in his hometown, as a brilliant student, and up to the time that he was unjustly imprisoned as a suspect in the murder of the political rival of his father. The movie then moves up to his acquittal, his career as a young congressman and senator, and up to the time that he married Imelda Marcos. The movie was shown in Manila as additional campaign material for Marcos’ candidacy for the Presidential race, which he eventually won. The movie portrayed Marcos as a person who is more than just a politician. – Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)

Iginuhit Ng Tadhana chronicles the rise of one of the most powerful and controversial leaders the Philippines has ever had- Ferdinand E. Marcos. The movie shows details of his life from the time he was born to his days as a youth in his hometown, growing up in a political family, to his incarceration for allegations of murdering his father’s political rival, up to his eventual acquittal. The movie then continues to show Marcos in the prime of his political career, winning seats in Congress and the Senate, up to his highly-publicized whirlwind marriage to Imelda Marcos. Originally shown and produced during the run-up to the political elections where Marcos won the Philippine presidency for the first time. Iginuhit ng Tadhana paints this erstwhile leader as more than a political personality. – Kabayan Central (READ MORE)

Film Achievement: Entry to the 1966 1st Manila Film Festival; 1965 FAMAS: Best Picture Nomination – 777 Films; Best Actor Nomination – Luis Gonzales; Best Actress Nomination – Gloria Romero

Film Review: “…As a piece of hagiography, you can’t get more melodramatic or shameless than 1965’s Iginuhit ng Tadhana (Drawn by Fate). In this biopic covering the life of kleptocrat and Martial Law architect Ferdinand Marcos (Luis Gonzalez) from his childhood to his ascent to the Philippine presidency, there is crying beside windows (courtesy of the martyr mother to end all martyr mothers, Rosa Mia), nervous wiping of brows on witness stands (because apparently, trial judges are blind to obvious body language), and kilometric monologues—including interior ones spoken in voice-over! How these characters don’t bore themselves to death is beyond me…Iginuhit ng Tadhana wastes no time getting down to its primary objective: settling scores. Conceived as propaganda for Ferdinand’s debut presidential campaign, the first 45 minutes of Iginuhit’s 136-minute running time busies itself scrubbing the Marcos name off the first of its multitude of sins: the death by sniper of Ferdinand’s political rival in Ilocos Norte, Julio Nalundasan. On the night of the murder, the film insists, our hero was busy reviewing for a law exam. He couldn’t possibly have stolen a rifle from his ROTC bunker and shot the congressman while he was brushing his teeth! And still, despite his nerd cred (and the aforementioned nervous mopping of brows by the star witness), the court had the gall to convict him! Hopefully, having gone through his own travesty of justice, our hero will have the empathy and drive to strengthen the rule of law in his own presidency, right? Right? Anyway, having demonstrated Ferdinand’s brilliance as he mounts his own defense in front of the Supreme Court, the film gets down to its next order of business: the meet-cute between our hero and his wife-to-be, Imelda Romualdez (Gloria Romero). Imelda is a far cry from his own mother, who visits her son in jail wearing a baro’t saya—no, when Ferdinand meets Imelda in the congressional cafeteria, she is wearing a man’s shirt, pants…and mismatched shoes! I can imagine the young Imelda watching this sequence and thinking, That will never happen again. After that, Iginuhit ticks off all the obligatory boxes: portraying Marcos as a family man, conscientious lawmaker, and devoted mama’s boy. (If I were Imelda and I were watching my husband call his mother “honey,” as this film says he does, I would have ran screaming from his latent Oedipus complex.) Oh, and watch out for a young Vilma Santos playing the eldest child, Imee. The role doesn’t give her much to do, but I foresee great things from this young performer…maybe even a run in politics…” – Andrew Paredes, ANC, 21 September 2018 (READ MORE)

“…Sinabi ni Ernesto Maceda, abugado ng 777 Productions, na ang pagpigil sa “Press Preview” o hayagang pagtatanghal ng “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” ay ilegal at labag sa saligang batas. Ayon kay Maceda, ang pelikula sinuri na ng BCMP, at dahil doon ay itinatanghal na iyon sa walong lalawigan…Sa isang dako, sinabi ni Gng. Olympia Lozano, kalihim-tagapagpaganap ng BCMP na pinigil ang pagtatanghal ng “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” dahil sa pagtanggi ng 777 Productions na iharap sa lupon ang pelikula upang suriin…Nagharap kagabi ng pagbibitiw sa Pangulong Macapagal si Jose L. Guevara bilang tagapangulo ng Board of Censors for Moving Pictures. Ginawa ni Guevara ang ganitong aksiyon kasunod ng pagpigil ng pelikulang “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” na naglalarawan sa buhay ni Sen. Ferdinand Marcos, kandidato sa pagka-pangulo ng NP. Ipinaliwanag ni Maceda na marami nang nakapanood ng “Iginuhit ng Tadhana”at nagkakaisa ng palagay ang lahat na walang batayan upang pigilin ang pagtatanghal nito. Upang masubhan kahit kaunti ang pagkayamot ng mga inayayahan sa “gala premiere” kagabi sa Rizal Theatre, ipinasiya ang pagtatanghal ng pelikulang Ingles, ang “The Thin Red Line…” – Leonardo P. Reyes, Taliba, 3 & 16 September 1965 (READ MORE)

“…Malamang makarating ngayon sa Korte Suprema ang hidwaan ng prodyuser ng Iginuhit ng Tadhana at ng lupon ng sensor na pumigil sa pagtatanghal sa publiko ng nasabing pelikula. Nakatakdang dumulog ngayon sa mataas ns hukuman ang mga abugado ng prodyuser ng pelikula matapos na pigilin ng hukuman sa paghahabol kahapon ang pagpapatupad sa utos ng mababang hukuman na nagpapahintulot sa pagtatanghal ng pelikula…Sa naunang hatol ni Hukom Edilberto Soriano ng hukumang unang dulugan ng Maynila ay ipinahintulot niya ang pagtatanghal sa masuliraning pelikula bagay na salungat sa pasiya ng lupon ng sensor na pumipigil sa nasabing pagtatanghal. Ang hatol ni Soriano ay idinulog ng mga abugado ng pamahalaan sa hukumang sa paghahabol sa kanilang matwid na walang huridiksiyon sa usapin ang mababang hukuman…Sinabi ni Abugado Claudio Teehankee, isa sa mga abugado ng prodyuser ng pelikula sa buhay ng Pangulong Ferdinand E. Marcos ng Senado na idudulog nila sa Korte Suprema ang desisyon inilagda kahapon ng Hukuman sa Paghahabol. Ipinaliwanag niyang ang dalawang sumusunod na matwid ang knailang ihaharap sa mataas na hukuman sa paghahabol: 2 Katwiran na Inilahad – 1. Na walang bisa ang kontrata na maaaring bawiin ang permiso sa isang pelikula upang maitanghal anumang oras. 2. Na hindi nagmalabis si Hukom Soriano sa pagpapasiya sa usapin…” – C. de Guzman, Taliba, 3 & 16 September 1965 (READ MORE)

“…Marcos knew the power of the medium of film. Earlier on, Marcos produced a film biography using the most popular stars for his first presidential campaign. He ran against Macapagal who also came up with a film biography to boost his reelection bid. Marcos would also use another film Iginuhit ng Tadhana (Written by Destiny, 1965) to campaign for a second term. The two Marcos film bios would be the only successful political films—commercial and election wise—as other film biographies in the post-Marcos period by senatorial and presidential aspirants would prove dismal, unhelpful for election bids. The post-Marcos period liberalized the political and economic scene. It conventionalized and intensified the election of movie and sports stars, and even television news hosts to national politics. Television stations were sequestered by the government, the largest of which, however, was returned to its pre-martial law owners. ABS-CBN would become the leading television station until after 2000, allowing two of its news anchors to become senators…” – Rolando Tino (READ MORE)

“…In 1965, the Board of Censors suspended the movie exhibition of Iginuhit ng Tadhana (a movie biography of Presidential candidate Ferdinand Marcos). Many believed and suspected that Malacanang had a hand in the board’s decision and such action was a wrong political maneuver and ploy that proved disastrous to the reelection bid of incumbent President Diosadado Macapagal. It practically ensured the Presidential electoral victory of Marcos…The suspension of the showing of a movie on the life of Senate President Ferdinand E. Marcos stirred yesterday a political storm and precipitated the resignation of the chairman of the Board of Censors for Motion Pictures. Officials of the board said that the board voted to suspend the exhibition of the movie, “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” (Destined by Fate) because its producer failed to submit it for preview by the board en banc or by the entire board. The film had been approved for showing by a subcommittee of four headed by Mrs. Rosalina I. Castro last August 24. The board said it interpreted the refusal of the movie company, the 777 Film Productions, to comply with its order as defiance of the Board. The order of the board also suspends the showing of the movie in eight provinces and cities— Camarines Norte, Batangas, Marawi City, Pampanga, Cotabato, Aklan, Masbate, and Sulu. The film has been showing in theaters in these places since Aug. 24, the date of the approval of the picture by the subcommittee of four. In the wake of the suspension of the showing of the film, columnist Jose L. Guevarra, chairman of the board of censors, tendered his resignation. Guevarra did not state his reason for resigning in his letter to President Macapagal, but sources close to him said that the resolution of suspension, which was adopted in his absence, had something to do with it…” – Isagani Yambot, Sept. 3, 1965 (READ MORE)

“…Isa sa paborito ko ay ang Iginuhit ng Tadhana,” ayon pa kay Conrado, “because that film helped President Marcos win the elections in 1965. If you remember, that film was banned by the Macapagal administration and the people naturally became curious. The movie was a big hit.” Iginuhit ng Tadhana was divided into three parts: Marcos as student, Marcos after school and Marcos in his early years in politics. Conrado directed the portion with the President as a young man, during the Nalundasan case, a crucial part in the President’s life. Before he began shooting, according to Conrado, he made his own research and first visited Batac where they shot an important scene…” – Conrado CondeJingle Extra Hot Movie Entertainment Magazine, April 27 1981 (READ MORE)

“This rarely seen, authorized biography of former President Ferdinand Marcos stars Luis Gonzalez, Gloria Romero, Vilma Santos, and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as himself. (The film starts with a flash of lighting as he is born on 9/11 in 1917.) ” – Vincent Nebrida (READ MORE)

“…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“Iginuhit Ng Tadhana” ng 777 Films (Setyembre 7 – 15, 1965)…hanggang “Young Love” ng VP Enero 1 – 21, 1970) ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya….Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

“…Pero higit na tumatak si Luis nang gampanan niya ng dalawang beses si Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos. Ito’y sa kontrobersyal na pelikulang “Iginuhit ng Tadhana” bago tumakbo si Marcos bilang presidente noong 1965. Sinundan ito ng “Pinagbuklod ng Langit” noong 1969. Si Imee Marcos, na ginampanan noon ni Vilma Santos, naalala ang galing ni Luis na mahirap na daw tapatan ngayon. “His acting was understated. A great actor and a good friend. He played a big role in our lives. Halos naniniwala na ako na tatay ko siya dahil sa boses. Mahal na mahal namin si Luis Gonzales,” sabi ni Imee. Ayon sa kanyang kabiyak, huling hiling ni Luis na ipa-cremate ang kanyang labi…” – Mario Dumaual (READ MORE)

“…Vilma was talking about Trudis Liit, the ’60s Sampaguita tearjerker in which she played the title role, with Luis playing her father, now US-based Lolita Rodriguez her mother and Bella Flores as the kontrabida. Luis, whose real surname is Mercado, died of complications of pneumonia at 11:30 Thursday night, March 15, at the Makati Medical Center where he was confined for the last time (he had been in and out of the hospital). As in the case of movie greats, Luis’ age is confidential and maybe not even his wife Vina Concepcion, who belongs to the clan that owns Concepcion Industries, and their three children can be forced to reveal it. After Trudis Liit, Vilma would star with Luis years later when she was already a teenager, in Iginuhit ng Tadhana and in Pinagbuklod ng Langit, produced by Sampaguita Pictures, believed to have helped Ferdinand Marcos win when he ran for President and then for reelection. In both movies, Luis plays Marcos, with Gloria Romero as First Lady Imelda Marcos and Vilma as Imee Marcos (now Ilocos Norte Governor). In the second, Gina Alajar plays as Irene Marcos (Mrs. Greggy Araneta), Now-Sen. Bongbong Marcos plays himself in the first movie (it was Jonjie Aranda, ex-husband of Sen. Loren Legarda, who plays Bongbong in the second). “I shot Palimos ng Pagibig (a Viva drama, with Edu Manzano and Dina Bonnevie) at Luis’ house,” added Vilma. “I remember him as sobrang kalog, palabiro. Ang tawag namin kay Tito Luis palengke kasi nga Mercado ang real surname niya. I was nine years old then and he always reminded me to just enjoy everything. We were always shooting dramatic scenes at parati akong iyak nang iyak, but after every take, tawa na kami nang tawa because Tito Luis would start cracking jokes…” – RicoJr (READ MORE)

“…And what many people probably didn’t know is that Bongbong played himself in Iginuhit ng Tadhana, produced by Sampaguita Pictures as a campaign pitch for Ferdinand when he first run for president in 1965, with Gloria Romero as Imelda, Luis Gonzales as Ferdinand, (now reelectionist Batangas Gov.) Vilma Santos as Imee and Gina Alajar as Irene (now Mrs. Greggy Araneta). A few years later, a sequel, titled Pinagbuklod ng Langit, was produced also by Sampaguita, directed by Eddie Garcia, with Gloria, Luis, Vilma and Gina reprising their roles and Jose “Jonjie” Aranda (first husband of Bongbong’s fellow Nacionalista, reelectionist Sen. Loren Legarda; their marriage was annulled in 1986) playing Bongbong….” – Ricardo F. Lo (READ MORE)

“…In hid book, Don Jose & The Early Philippine Cinema, Joe Quirino credits jose Nepomuceno pioneer in producing movies that not only entertained but also informed. Wrote Quirino: “His screen adaptation of Noli Me Tangere, Jose Rizal’s novel exposing the social cancer that festered during the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, captured the sardonic and satirical contents of the imflammatory noel.” Satire was a popular device through which producer aired their views on social issues. In 1929, a satirical movie called Patria Amore caught the ire of the local Spanish community who went to court to stop its exhibition. A counterpart incident took place in 1965 when the Liberal Party tried to stop the showing of Iginuhit ng Tadhana, the propagandistic movie of the life of Ferdinand Marcos. The same motion picture propelled Marcos to the presidency. Movies of social significance often face this dillemma on their way to the big screen. Because of their strong public statement, they invite uproar from concerned sectors, an experience that became almost a daily ordeal for the late director, Lino Brocka. In recent years and until his death in 1991, Brocka had been the prime mover of Tagalog movies of social significance. Some of his works that easily fall under this category are, in no particular orderL Orapronobis (about vigilantes and rebels in the countryside), Bayan Ko (on labor unrest), Gumapang Ka sa Lusak and Hahamakin Lahat (on political corruption), Maynila: Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag (on moral degradation and exploitation)…” – Nestor Cuartero, Panorama, dated June 13, 1993 (READ MORE)

“…A number of films suffered a similar fate at the hands of the censors, including so-called political films, no matter how mature or serious the treatment was. One such example is Gerardo de Leon’s Daigdig ng Mga Api (1965), a dramatization of the problem of tenancy in our country. Another one is Maliwalu Massacre, whose exhibition was stopped by influential groups with access to the censors. Political factions likewise used film to advance the cause of their party and enhance the image of their candidates in the elections. Even Ferdinand Marcos biography on film, Iginuhit ng Tadhana, was recalled during the incumbency of newspaperman Jose Guevarra but was nevertheless shown prior to the 1965 elections…” – Justino Dormiendo, Parade Magazine, September 25, 1983 (READ MORE)

“…The First Manila Film Festival was held for the first time in 1966. Reserved solely for Hollywood and foreign movies, first-run downtown theaters like Ideal, Odeon, State, Ever, Galaxy, Capitol, Lyric, among others were opened for exhibition to locally-produced or Tagalog movies. The filmfest was the brainchild of then Manila Mayor Antonio Villegas. The 10-day festival which coincided on the city’s foundation day (June 24) was a huge success participated in by big names in the industry…A total of 18 movies (14 new, 4 reissues) were exhibited during the 10-day festival. Iginuhit ng Tadhana, Portrait of the Artist as Filipino and Daigdig ng mga Api, all released in 1965, and Zamboanga, shown a month earlier, were allowed to participate…” – VIdeo48 (READ MORE)

RELATED READING:

Filmography: Trudis Liit (1963)

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Basic Information:Directed: Jose De Villa; Story: Mars Ravelo; Screenplay: Chito B. Tapawan; Cast: Vilma Santos, Connie Angeles, Lolita Rodriguez, Luis Gonzales, Bella Flores, Charlie Davao, Rodolfo ‘Boy’ Garcia, Ely Roque, Matimtiman Cruz, Ray Marcos, Ven Medina, Venchito Galvez; Original Music: Pastor de Jesus; Executive producer: Dr. Jose Vera Perez

Plot Description: Ang Trudis Liit ay isang pelikulang Drama kung saan inaapi ang kaawa-awang si Trudis (Vilma Santos) ng kanyang madrasta (Bella Flores). Ito ay ipinalabas noong Pebrero 21, taong 1963. Wikipedia

Film Achievement: 1963 FAMAS Awards – Best Child Actress – Vilma Santos; The film was remade into a teleserye in 2010 starring Jillian Ward and into a film in 1996 starring Marijoy Adorable.

Film Reviews: “This is, of course, Vilma’s first film and it has all the elements of a melodrama – the good guys and one extremely bad woman (Bella Flores). This early, you can already tell that Vilma was to the acting profession born. (She won FAMAS Best Child Actress for this film). She doesn’t allow herself to be eclipsed by her veteran co-stars: Luis Gonzales and the Lolita Rodriguez. But with due respect to Vilma, even if she is the one who plays the title role here and is undeniably good in this Sampaguita Pictures box-office hit, the one who leaves a really lasting impression in the minds of most viewers is the character played by Connie Angeles – Oreng. After all, wasn’t it this girl who gets chewed up by a German Shepherd in the film?” – Butch Francisco, Newsflash.org, Feb 2004

“Nakihalo lang ako doon sa mga nag-a-audition sa Trudis Liit [1963],” pagbabalik-tanaw ng aktres kung paano siya napasok sa showbiz at naging bida nga kaagad sa nabanggit niyang proyektong iyon. Hindi ako dapat talaga doon [sa audition na iyon]. Nakipila lang ako. Pagpila ko, tinatawag ako ng mommy ko na, ‘Hindi ka diyan! Sabi ko, ‘Andito na, e!’ Makulit na ako no’ng time na ‘yon! So, anyway, tinawag ako ni Doc Perez [of Sampaguita Pictures] at that time. Pinaarte ako. Nag-adlib-adlib pa ako. Nakuha naman ako. So, when I started, dalawa kaagad ang pelikula ko—Trudis Liit at Anak, Ang Iyong Ina [1963]. Ang naaalala ko lang tungkol sa maaga kong pagpasok sa pag-aartista, parang laro lang sa akin iyon. Parang naglalaro lang ako noon kaya hindi trabaho sa akin iyon, e. So, very-very memorable sa akin iyon. At saka no’ng Trudis Liit, every lunch, lagi akong may apple. Lagi akong may chicken. Every lunch talaga ‘yon. Parang… Siguro bata, so ibibigay nila ‘yong gano’ng ano sa ‘yo. Parang may prize ka, gano’n. So, memorable sa akin iyon.” – Vilma Santos (READ MORE)

“…Contravida Queen Bella Flores was featured in “Showbiz Central’s” Most Influential segment as she plays a big part in GMA Films’ new movie with Rhian Ramos and Aljur Abrenica, “My Kontrabida Girl.” It’s also a tribute to Bella as she’s celebrating her 60th anniversary in showbiz. The screen name Bella Flores was given to her by the late Sampaguita Pictures’ boss Dr. Jose Perez. “I was so glad when I was told it means beautiful flowers,” she said. Her real name is Remedios Dancel and she was born on Feb. 27, 1936, which means she turned 76 yesterday, Monday (Feb 27/2012). She was only 15 when she did her first villain role maltreating child star Tessie Agana in the blockbuster “Roberta.” She recounted that Vilma Santos auditioned with her for her first movie, “Trudis Liit,” in 1963. “Natakot siya at tumakbo dahil nakita niyang pinahirapan ko ‘yung ibang batang nag-audition,” she said. “Ngayon, governor na siya. Sina Roderick Paulate at Gina Alajar, sa’kin din nagsimula as child stars sa ‘Kaibigan Kong Sto. Nino’…” – Mario Bautista (READ MORE)

“Ang pelikula ni Ate Vi na Trudis Liit ay tandang tanda ng maraming Vilmanians. Nagdulot ito ng unang karangalan para kay Ate Vi at sa murang edad ng siyam. Sa mga Vilmanians ang maraming madramang eksena ni Vilma rito’y natanim sa ating alaala. Ang sabi nga ng isa sa ating Vilmanian na si Henry Llaneza, “the first movie I’ve seen in Black & White TV mula sa bintana ng kapitbahay ay ang “Trudis Liit” na napaiyak ang lahat ng nanonood dito nagsimula ang lahat…” ng kanyang pagiging isang Vilmanian. Katulad ni Henry, dito rin nagsimula ang aking paghanga sa star for all season. Galit na galit ako nuon kay Bella Flores dahil sa pang-aaping ginawa niya kay Trudis. Sa pagkapanalo ni Ate Vi ng FAMAS Best Child Actress sa pelikulang ito, sinundan pa ng Sampaguita Pictures ang tagumpay nito sa pamamagitan ng pelikulang Ging. Dito makikita ang malinaw na talento ni Ate Vi. Hindi lamang sa kanyang hindi pilit na pag-iyak kundi sa pagkanta rin. Dito rin sa pelikulang ito’y nakipagsabayan siya sa pagganap ni Olivia Cenizal at sa pang-aapi ni Carol Varga. Ang dekada ng sisenta ay patuloy na nagbigay ng maraming pelikula kay Ate Vi magmula sa pagiging isang batang artista hanggang sa isang teenager. Umabot ito sa unang karangalan niya bilang isang hindi na batang artista sa pamamagitan ng pagkanominado niya sa Best Supporting Actress muli sa FAMAS at ang kanyang pagkapanalo ng parehong titulo mula naman sa San Beda College…” – RV (READ MORE)

“…Vilma was talking about Trudis Liit, the ’60s Sampaguita tearjerker in which she played the title role, with Luis playing her father, now US-based Lolita Rodriguez her mother and Bella Flores as the kontrabida. Luis, whose real surname is Mercado, died of complications of pneumonia at 11:30 Thursday night, March 15, at the Makati Medical Center where he was confined for the last time (he had been in and out of the hospital). As in the case of movie greats, Luis’ age is confidential and maybe not even his wife Vina Concepcion, who belongs to the clan that owns Concepcion Industries, and their three children can be forced to reveal it. After Trudis Liit, Vilma would star with Luis years later when she was already a teenager, in Iginuhit ng Tadhana and in Pinagbuklod ng Langit, produced by Sampaguita Pictures, believed to have helped Ferdinand Marcos win when he ran for President and then for reelection. In both movies, Luis plays Marcos, with Gloria Romero as First Lady Imelda Marcos and Vilma as Imee Marcos (now Ilocos Norte Governor). In the second, Gina Alajar plays as Irene Marcos (Mrs. Greggy Araneta), Now-Sen. Bongbong Marcos plays himself in the first movie (it was Jonjie Aranda, ex-husband of Sen. Loren Legarda, who plays Bongbong in the second). “I shot Palimos ng Pagibig (a Viva drama, with Edu Manzano and Dina Bonnevie) at Luis’ house,” added Vilma. “I remember him as sobrang kalog, palabiro. Ang tawag namin kay Tito Luis palengke kasi nga Mercado ang real surname niya. I was nine years old then and he always reminded me to just enjoy everything. We were always shooting dramatic scenes at parati akong iyak nang iyak, but after every take, tawa na kami nang tawa because Tito Luis would start cracking jokes…” – RicoJr (READ MORE)

“…Bella Flores (born Remedios Dancel) began terrorizing lead actors and actresses since she was cast as the evil stepmother in the 1951 film Roberta. Since then, she has been cast in over a hundred films, making life miserable for the likes of little Vilma Santos in the 1964 film Trudis Liit and young Gina Alajar in the 1970 film Robina…Her screen name might mean “beautiful flowers,” but she has piercing eyes (always with tons of black eyeliner) and a husky voice that easily send shivers down one’s spine. She seems to excel in terrorizing kids in movies…” – Spot.ph (READ MORE)

Oreng, Trudis’ sister “…I was five when I did ‘Eskuwelahang Munti,’” Connie begins. “Maybe, my mother harbored a secret ambition to become an actress that’s why she took me there. Sintunado ako pero wala namang pinipili doon. As long as you can face the camera, and tumula ka d’yan, kumanta ka…Its products were Edgar Mortiz, Ike Lozada and Perla Adea. ‘Pag bata kasi, patatawarin ka kahit sintunado. May ribbon ako na malalaki, bungi pa ako noon. “In Trudis, we were 800 plus during the audition. Tita Lolit (Lolita Rodriguez) and Tita Bella (Flores) talked to my mother. Siguro, natutuwa sa akin. They told her na kukurutin daw ako para umiyak pero kailangan daw sabihin ko ang lines ko. So, nakuha ako, kasi the other children forgot to say the dialogue when they started crying. “I played Oreng, yung sister ni Trudis na kinagat ng aso. But I never became a dramatic actress, because I didn’t know how to cry. In one scene, inaagaw na yung baboy namin do’n, ipagbibili na ni Bella. When Ate Vi (Vilma Santos) cried, iyak na din ako pero boses lang. Wala talagang luha. Kakausapin na naman nila nanay ko. Kunwari papauwiin na ako. ‘Pag umiyak na ako, they would start shooting. After our scenes, Tito Luis (Gonzalez) and Tita Lolit would buy us Max chicken kasi pinahirapan nila kaming umiyak…” – Gypsy Baldovino (READ MORE)

“…a star, er, actress was born. Impressive start, easily cries on cue, rewarded by the FAMAS for best child actress. She had a movie with Gloria Romero and Rita Gomez in Anak, Ang Iyong Ina…” – anonymous (READ MORE)

Sampaguita vs LVN – “…During the 1950s and the early 1960s Sampaguita and LVN were acknowledged leaders of the industry. Dr. Jose Perez, Sampaguita general manager, went on to discover an array of luminaries including Gloria Romero (who won the FAMAS best actress award in “Dalagang Ilocana”), Rita Gomez, Greg Martin, Susan Roces, Amalia Fuentes, Romeo Vasquez, Barbara Perez, Tony Marzan, and Eddie Garcia who has won more acting trophies than any other Filipino thespian in the history of Philippine movies. It was also Doc Perez who gave both Vilma Santos and Rod Navarro their first movie breaks. Vilma was the child star of “Trudis Liit” while Rod appeared as an extra in a now forgotten Sampaguita movie. Meanwhile, LVN too was turning out blockbusters during the 1950s. Among its many stars were Pugo and Tugo (Doctor X, Pulo ng Engkanto, Dalawang Prinsepeng Kambal), Armando Goyena (father of Maritess and Tina Revilla), Celia Flor, Teody Belarmino, Tony Santos, Lilia Dizon, Tessie Quintana, Mario Montenegro, Jaime de la Rosa, Delia Razon, Rosa Rosal, Nestor de Villa and the uninhibited Nida Blanca. LVN produced such unforgettable musical comedies as Batanguena, Waray-Waray, and Saydwok Bendor (all starring Nida Blanca); such fantasy films as Tungkod ni Moses (where Director Richard Abelardo divided the Red Sea) and Rodrigo de Villa; and such dramatic tearjerker as In Despair (Mila del Sol and Jaime de la Rosa), Pag-asa (Armando Goyena and Priscilla Cellona), Yolanda (Celia Flor and Teody Belarmino), and Aklat ng Buhay (Rosa Rosal and Oscar Keesee)…” – Joe Quirino, Times Journal, August 19, 1977 (READ MORE)

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Filmography: Sa Bawat Pintig ng Puso (1964)

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“A Bitter – Sweet Love Story That Is Not Just That Easy to Forget!”

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Basic Information: Direction: Armando de Guzman (1963 Famas Best Director); Story and Screenplay: Jose Flores Sibal; Cast: Zaldy Zshornack, Marlene Dauden, Alona Alegre, Sammy Barretto/ Also Starring Jose Garcia, Ely Roque, Totoy Rivera, Rene Roque/ with Lillian Leonardo and Vilma Santos (in a special roles); Music: Restie Umali; Production Company: Larry Santiago Productions, Inc.; Release Date November 16-25, 1964; Exhibited at Globe Theatre, Manila Philippines; Orinally published as a comic serial from Bulaklak Magazine

Plot Description: Serialized in Bulaklak comics and made into a motion picture in 1964, Sa Bawat Pintig Ng Puso (With Every Beat of Your Heart) is a story of child, Annabelle played by a young, Vilma Santos and action star, Fernan (Zaldy Zhornack, who occassionally star in drama films). Fernan though that Anabelle was the child of his father (Jose Garcia) to Ludina (Marlene Dauden), Anabelle turned out to be his own child). – RV

“May Katarungan Sa Paghihiganti – Ang “Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso” ng Larry Santiago Productions ay isang natatanging pelikulang makaantig ng damdamin at punung-puno ng mga tagpong naiiba sa karaniwang takbo ng buhay. Pinangungunahan nina Zaldy Zshornack at Marlene Dauden sa kauna-unahang pagtatambal bilang magkasintahan sa puting tabing at sa pamamahala ni direktor Armando de Guzman, pinakamahusay na direktor ng taon, 1963. Kabituin sina Alona Alegre, Sammy Barretto, Jose Garcia at iba pa. Kasaysayan: Jose F. Sibal.” – Video48

Film Achievement: 1964 FAMAS Best Actress – Marlene Dauden; 1964 FAMAS Best Musical Score – Restie Umali; 1964 FAMAS Nomination Best Actor – Zaldy Zshornack; 1964 FAMAS Nomination Best Director – Armando De Guzman; 1964 FAMAS Nomination Best Picture; 1964 FAMAS Nomination Best Supporting Actress – Alona Alegre

Film Reviews: “…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso” ng LSP (Nobyemre 16 – 25, 1964)…ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya…Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

“…She also won two Best Actress awards for the films Sa Bawat Pintig ng Puso and Kapag Puso’y Sinugatan. She was also nominated by the FAMAS for an additional times: Best Actress for Mila Rosa, where she won. She was nominated for Best Actress Alipin ng Busabos, and Babae, Ikaw ang Dahilan, where she won again…” – Wikepedia (READ MORE)

“…Sa Bawa’t Pintig ng Puso, 1964 – Vilma, the junior actress, no longer a child, not yet a woman, found her niche in the adult drama troika of Marlene Dauden, Lolita Rodriguez, and Eddie Rodriguez as the proverbial daughter caught in the menage a trois. Good company of dramatic greats. Boring and unchallenging role of a good daughter in forgettable tearjerkers followed: Iginuhit ng Tadhana, De Colores, Kasalanan Kaya? and Sino Ang May Karapatan? (1968)…” – Anonymous (READ MORE)

“…In the ’50s and early ’60s, it would have been difficult, if not impossible, to team up Zaldy Zshornack and Marlene Dauden in a movie. They then belonged to different studies, Zaldy with Premiere and Larry Santiago and Marlene with Sampaguita. Sa Bawat Pintig ng Puso became a reality when the two stars turned freelancers. Marlene was identified with dramatic roles, while Zaldy excelled in action-dramas. Sharing stellar billing with them were Alone Alegre and Sammy Barretto. In ‘very special roles’ were veteran actress Lillian Leonardo and teenage star Vilma Santos…” – RKC, The Philippine Star, 25 January 2015 (READ MORE)

“…Ang ‘Sa Bawa’t Pintig Ng Puso”ng Larry Santiago Productions ay isang natatanging pelikulang makaantig ng damdamin at punong-puno ng mga tagpong naiiba sa karaniwang takbo ng buhay. Pinangungunahan nina Zaldy Zshornack at Marlene Dauden sa kauna-unahang pagtatambal bilang magkasintahan sa puting tabing at sa pamamahala ni direktor Armando de Guzman, pinakamahusay na direktor ng taon, 1963. Kabituin sina Alona Alegre, Sammy Barreto, Jose Garcia at iba pa. Kasaysayan: Jose F. Sibal…” – Video 48, 10 January 2015 (READ MORE)

Filmography: Naligaw na Anghel (1964)

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Basic Information: Direction: Armando de Guzman; Cast: Willie Sotelo, Maggie de la Riva, Vilma Valera, Vilma Santos, Van de Leon, Anita Linda, Carol Varga, Jose Villafranca, Romeo San Jose, Rey Santiago, Toto; Production: Larry Santiago Productions, Inc.; Release Date: 8-17 August 1964; Film poster archived by: Video48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: “…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“Naligaw Na Anghel” ng LSP (Agosto 8 – 17, 1964)…ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya…Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

“…Ang kaunaunahang Teleserye o Telenobela sa Television ng ABS CBN Channel 3 ay pinagbidahan ni Vilma, ito ay ang Larawan ng Pagibig. Dinirek ni Jose Miranda Cruz at mga artista din dito sina Eva Darren, Willie Sotelo, at Rosita Noble. Si Vilma ay 11 years old pa lang dito. Pagkatapos ng taping ng Larawan ng Pagibig, lagare naman si Vi sa kanyang Radio Drama program sa DZRH ang Naligaw na Anghel, kasama nya sina Maggie de la Riva at si Anita Linda na gumanap na ina ni Vilma. Ang T.V. show at Radio drama program ni Vi ay tumagal sa ere ng 3 years…” – Jojo V. Lim (READ MORE)

“…Young and cute Vilma Santos is one of the few child stars who have hit the screen with continued success. Although not as well-publicized as the adult stars, she is gaining popularity with lot of fans who recognize her warm personality and talent. Her successful debut in Sampaguita Pictures’ Trusdis Liit gave her more movie offers. Vilma, who just turned 13 last Nov. 3, has been in the movies for three years and already has 16 pictures to her credit. A talented youngster, she often steals the spotlight from her senior colleagues. In Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel, Anak Ang Iyong Ina, and many other films, she was a standout in tear-jearking scenes. As a result, she is always in demand for such roles. Despite her success, Vilma remains unaffected as a child. At the St. mary’s Academy where she is a six-grader, she has more than her share of friends not because she is a celebrity but because of her natural chumminess. In fact, she is so fond of her friends that their house on Lunas St in La Loma, Quezon City is often filled with them. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amado Santos, do not discourage her gregariousness and instead look upon it as part of her developing personality…Vilma’s movie commitments don’t prevent her from being a good student. She could have been easily way above average if only her shooting schedules sometimes do not prevent her from attending her classes. “Doing two tasks at the same time gave me a hard time at the beginning but I’ve adjusted to it now,” said this youngster who still goes for lollipops, ice cream, toys, and play. Vilma, who spends her leisure hours listening to radio dramas, dancing and playing with her three other sisters, will be seen in her coming films, Sigaw Ng Batingaw of Argo Productions…” – Julio F. Silverio, The Weekly Nation, 31 December 1965, reposted at Pelikula Atbp blog (READ MORE)

Filmography: King and Queen for a Day (1963)

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Basic Information: Director: Mar S. Torres; Story and screenplay: Ading Bernando, Jose Leonardo; Cast: Dolphy, Chichay, Jose Mari Gonzales, Liberty Ilagan, Panchito, Aruray, Naty Santiago, Johnny Misa, Ven Medina, Venchito Galvez, Vilma Santos, Herminia Carranza, Cora Maceda, Pepe Salameda, Naty Mallares, Apolonio Abadeza; Producer: Jose O. Vera; Original Music: Carding Cruz; Release Date:3 July 1963 (Philippines); Produced: Sampaguita Pictures; Film poster: Video48 – IMDB (READ MORE)

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: First movie with Dolphy and Chichay

Film Reviews: “…This movie was in tribute of the staff and crew behind the movies produced by Sampaguita Pictures. They were played by Dolphy, Panchito, Chichay and other actors and actresses of the said film outfit. The title was about a popularity contest in the studio where some of the said staff and crew were the candidates. Here, the King of Comedy played a janitor named “Julio Antukin” who became involved in most of the hilarious situations in the movie studio premises like throwing the pin of the grenade instead of the grenade, when he replaced a bit player, at the site where a movie director, played by Ading Fernando, was standing giving instructions about a scene. Another one was when he was assigned in the sound room where his clumsiness in the operation of its equipment caused the switching of the male and the female voices of its contract stars, played by Jose Mari Gonzales and Liberty Ilagan, in a musical number scene. In the end, he redeemed himself, when he was able to help the studio from being robbed by a gang of criminals which made him the “King” while Chichay was the “Queen”. Vilma Santos appeared in this movie as Dolphy’s younger kid sister…” – Melcore’s CinePlex Blog (READ MORE)

“Chichay (born Amparo R. Custodio; January 21, 1918 – May 31, 1993) was a Filipino comedienne. Her short and stocky stature, scratchy voice and prematurely aged appearance allowed her to portray grandmothers while only in her thirties. She was born in Tondo, Manila, the daughter of a ship steward, Jose Pacifico Custodio and Maria Robles of Bulacan. In 1945, she married Hercules Saenz Moya of Iloilo. She entered showbusiness as a teen, joining the “Samahang Antonieta” as a singer with her sister Iluminada. She also appeared as a chorus line dancer at the bodabil shows of Katy de la Cruz. Soon a regular at the bodabil circuit, she received her stage name “Chichay” from Atang de la Rama. The name was a corruption of the Japanese word “Chiisai”, meaning “short”, in reference to Chichay’s own short height and she got famous for her toothless appearance but in reality she still got 2 molars left. Chichay appeared in her first film, Sampaguita Pictures’s Huwag Ka Nang Magtampo, in 1949. She became a star in 1953 after appearing in Gorio and Tekla, opposite Tolindoy. In the next decade, Chichay and Tolindoy became a popular comic duo, often paired together in films….” – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

“…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“King ang Queen For A Day” (Hulyo 4 – 13, 1963)…ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya…Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

“…Pangkaraniwang papel niya ang Everyman na mula sa karalitaan ay humahantong sa tagumpay – at lover boy pa, tulad sa mga sumusunod na pelikula: “King And Queen For A Day” (1963), “Rodolfo Valentino” at “Tayo’y Mag-Up Up And Away” (1970). Matagal siyang nakakontrata sa Sampaguita, pero nang magsara ang pangunahing movie company ay gumawa si Dolphy sa iba’t bang studio, tulad ng Lea Productions at Regal Films, at sa sariling RVQ Productions…” – Mario A. Hernando (READ MORE)

“…Batangas Governor Vilma Santos, who’s now identified with ABS-CBN, told the Inquirer: “The whole country is saddened by the news. He was simple but someone with a big heart for Filipinos. He entertained us for over 60 years.” The actress-politician recalled that she first shared the screen with Dolphy when she was a child star. “I worked with him and the late comedians Panchito and Chichay when I was 11 years old in the Sampaguita movie ‘King and Queen for a Day.’ That was 1963…” – Bayani San Diego Jr, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Jul 12 2012 (READ MORE)

Filmography: Larawan ng Pag-ibig (1964)

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Basic Information: Directed: Jose Miranda Cruz; Story: Jose Miranda Cruz; Screenplay: Jose Miranda Cruz; Cast: Willie Sotelo, Rosita Noble, Eva Darren, Vilma Santos, Lolita Lopez, Ben David, Teddy Santos, Carol Varga, Martin Marfil, Tessie Tecson, Nello Nayo, Johnny De Leon, Rolando Liwanag, Roger Nite, Dalton De Castro, Cleng-Cleng Diaz; Executive producer: Vicente De Leon; Original Music: Pablo Vergara; Production Design: Vicente Nayve; Film Poster: Video 48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: “…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“Larawan Ng Pag-ibig” ng Vitri (base sa TV series, Pebrero 19 – 28, 1964)…ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya…Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

“…Ang kaunaunahang Teleserye o Telenobela sa Television ng ABS CBN Channel 3 ay pinagbidahan ni Vilma, ito ay ang Larawan ng Pagibig. Dinirek ni Jose Miranda Cruz at mga artista din dito sina Eva Darren, Willie Sotelo, at Rosita Noble. Si Vilma ay 11 years old pa lang dito. Pagkatapos ng taping ng Larawan ng Pagibig, lagare naman si Vi sa kanyang Radio Drama program sa DZRH ang Naligaw na Anghel, kasama nya sina Maggie de la Riva at si Anita Linda na gumanap na ina ni Vilma. Ang T.V. show at Radio drama program ni Vi ay tumagal sa ere ng 3 years…” – Jojo V. Lim (READ MORE)

“…Ang teleseryeng Larawan Ng Pag-ibig (July 19, 1964) ay prinodyus ng Vitri Films at pinangunahan nina Vi, Willie Sotelo, Eva Darren, Ben David at Rosita Noble. Si Jose Miranda Cruz ang sumulat, gumawa ng iskrip at nagdirek ng pelikulang ito na nasubaybayan sa Channel 3…” – Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)

“…Larawan ng Pag-ibig, teleserye, 1963 – on ABS-CBN. She’s the original TV drama princess. Buckets of tears, the familiar high-strung acting, but forgiveable, she’s just a kid, please. Were there TV household ratings in 1963? The show was a hit, Larawan the movie had to be done. The little brown girl from Iriga, Nora Villamayor, was a big Vilma fan…” – anonymous (READ MORE)

Filmography: Aninong Bakal (1963)

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Basic Information: Direction, story and screenplay: Jose Miranda Cruz; Cast: Ronald Remy, Willie Sotelo, Lourdes Medel, Renato Robles, Lydia Resma, Carol Varga, Martin Marfil, Eva Darren, Nello Nayo, Sammy Sarmiento, Bino Garcia, Vilma Santos, Cleng-Cleng Diaz, Oscar Staris, Pepito Garcia, Max Rojo, Louie Florentino, Armando Lucero, Nina Araneta, Seme Policarpio, Joe Constantino, Andring Asuncion, Ric Halili, Ernesto Del Rosario, Ernie Fajardo, Mario Savalsa, Armando Grisola, Marilyn Monje; Executive Producer: Vicente De Villa; Original Music: Pablo Vergara; Film poster: Video 48

Plot Description: No Available Data

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: “…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“Aninong Bakal” ng Vitri Films (Oktubre 9 – 28, 1963)…ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya…Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales, Modern Romances & True Confessions, 15 December 1980 (READ MORE)

“…Pinangunahan nina Vi, Ronald Remy, Willie Sotelo, Lourdes Medel, Carol Varga, Martin Marfil at Eva Darren ang pelikulang Aninong Bakal (October 9, 1965 ) na prinodyus ng Vitri Films. Ito ay serialized sa Radio sponsored by PMC at sa direksiyon ni Jose Miranda Cruz…” – Alfonso Valencia, VSR_Vilma Yahoo Group (READ MORE)

Filmography: Anak, ang Iyong Ina (1963)

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Basic Information: Directed: Mar S. Torres; Story: Fausto J. Galauran; Screenplay: Medy Tarnate; Cast: Gloria Romero, Mario Montenegro, Rita Gomez, Tony Marzan, Eddie Garcia, Vilma Santos, Etang Discher, Maria Victoria, Ely Roque, Aring Bautista, Totoy Torrente, Nenita Navarro, Naty Mallares, Rosa Mia, Tony Cayado, Jose De Villa, Charlie Davao; Original Music: Dick Zamora

Plot Description: “…Vilma has “two” mothers in Gloria Romero and the late Ms. Rita Gomez. Vilma’s name was itsy bitsy tiny in the theater marquees. She started her career right, to be acting with the brilliant and professional actors of the era…” – Mario Garces (READ MORE)

Film Achievement: One of Vilma Santos and Gloria Romero 13 films – (Anak ang Iyong Ina, Iginuhit ng Tadhana, De Colores, Pinagbuklod ng Langit, Anak ng Aswang, Lipad Darna Lipad, Happy Days are Here Again, Karugtong ang Kahapon, Nakakahiya?, Hindi Nakakahiya, Makahiya at Talahib, Saan Nagtatago Ang Pag-ibig?, Kapag Langit Ang Humatol) – RV (READ MORE)

Film Reviews: “Nakihalo lang ako doon sa mga nag-a-audition sa Trudis Liit [1963],” pagbabalik-tanaw ng aktres kung paano siya napasok sa showbiz at naging bida nga kaagad sa nabanggit niyang proyektong iyon. Hindi ako dapat talaga doon [sa audition na iyon]. Nakipila lang ako. Pagpila ko, tinatawag ako ng mommy ko na, ‘Hindi ka diyan! Sabi ko, ‘Andito na, e!’ Makulit na ako no’ng time na ‘yon! So, anyway, tinawag ako ni Doc Perez [of Sampaguita Pictures] at that time. Pinaarte ako. Nag-adlib-adlib pa ako. Nakuha naman ako. So, when I started, dalawa kaagad ang pelikula ko—Trudis Liit at Anak, Ang Iyong Ina [1963]. Ang naaalala ko lang tungkol sa maaga kong pagpasok sa pag-aartista, parang laro lang sa akin iyon. Parang naglalaro lang ako noon kaya hindi trabaho sa akin iyon, e. So, very-very memorable sa akin iyon. At saka no’ng Trudis Liit, every lunch, lagi akong may apple. Lagi akong may chicken. Every lunch talaga ‘yon. Parang… Siguro bata, so ibibigay nila ‘yong gano’ng ano sa ‘yo. Parang may prize ka, gano’n. So, memorable sa akin iyon.” – Vilma Santos (READ MORE)

“Rosita Quinto Stecza (1925–2006), known by her screen name Rosa Mia, was an award-winning actress and one of the few female directors in the Philippines. She was known as the “Queen of Tearjerker Movies” for her work mostly on the drama genre typified in motherly roles…” – Wikipedia (READ MORE)

“…Hindi ako dapat talaga doon [sa audition na iyon]. Nakipila lang ako. Pagpila ko, tinatawag ako ng mommy ko na, ‘Hindi ka diyan!’ Sabi ko, ‘Andito na, e!’ Makulit na ako no’ng time na ‘yon!” natatawang kuwento pa niya sa PEP. Patuloy ni Ate Vi, “So, anyway, tinawag ako ni Doc Perez [of Sampaguita Pictures] at that time. Pinaarte ako. Nag-adlib-adlib pa ako. Nakuha naman ako. So, when I started, dalawa kaagad ang pelikula ko—Trudis Liit at Anak, Ang Iyong Ina [1963]. Ang naaalala ko lang tungkol sa maaga kong pagpasok sa pag-aartista, parang laro lang sa akin iyon. Parang naglalaro lang ako noon kaya hindi trabaho sa akin iyon, e. So, very-very memorable sa akin iyon. At saka no’ng Trudis Liit, every lunch, lagi akong may apple. Lagi akong may chicken…” – Ruben Marasigan (READ MORE)

“…Young and cute Vilma Santos is one of the few child stars who have hit the screen with continued success. Although not as well-publicized as the adult stars, she is gaining popularity with lot of fans who recognize her warm personality and talent. Her successful debut in Sampaguita Pictures’ Trusdis Liit gave her more movie offers. Vilma, who just turned 13 last Nov. 3, has been in the movies for three years and already has 16 pictures to her credit. A talented youngster, she often steals the spotlight from her senior colleagues. In Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel, Anak Ang Iyong Ina, and many other films, she was a standout in tear-jearking scenes. As a result, she is always in demand for such roles. Despite her success, Vilma remains unaffected as a child. At the St. mary’s Academy where she is a six-grader, she has more than her share of friends not because she is a celebrity but because of her natural chumminess. In fact, she is so fond of her friends that their house on Lunas St in La Loma, Quezon City is often filled with them. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amado Santos, do not discourage her gregariousness and instead look upon it as part of her developing personality…Vilma’s movie commitments don’t prevent her from being a good student. She could have been easily way above average if only her shooting schedules sometimes do not prevent her from attending her classes. “Doing two tasks at the same time gave me a hard time at the beginning but I’ve adjusted to it now,” said this youngster who still goes for lollipops, ice cream, toys, and play. Vilma, who spends her leisure hours listening to radio dramas, dancing and playing with her three other sisters, will be seen in her coming films, Sigaw Ng Batingaw of Argo Productions…” – Julio F. Silverio, The Weekly Nation, 31 December 1965, reposted at Pelikula Atbp blog (READ MORE)

Related Reading:
Vilma Santos – The Child Star

Filmography: Ging (1964)

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“Pagmasdan n’yo ako…ako po’y ulilang lubos…inaapi at hinahamak…kung hindi n’yo po kahahabagan ay nasaan ang katarungan?!” – Ging

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Basic Information: Directed: Cirio H. Santiago, Teodorico C. Santos; Story: Mars Ravelo; Screenplay: Teodorico C. Santos; Cast: Vilma Santos, Jose Padilla Jr., Olivia Cenizal, Carol Varga, Ramon D’Salva, Aruray, Etang Discher, Georgie Quizon, Ponga, Jose Garcia, Paquito Salcedo, Eva Montes, Marvin Molina, Pol Todd; Executive producer: Adela Santiago; Cinematography: Lito Padrino; Film Editing: Demetrio De Santos; Production Design: Bert Amazar; Theme Songs: “Ulila” composed by Levi Celerio, performed by Vilma Santos

Plot Description: A young Vilma Santos starred as Ging. A smart mouth street kid who have to beg for money to support her crippled mother. She was adopted by a deceitful couple who heard her sing in a restaurant. The couple made Ging into a singing sensation but abuse her, limiting her food intake and sleep to prevent her to grow. Ging eventually left them and surprisingly discovered her father. She reconciled with him and her crippled mother. – RV

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

Film Achievement: No Available Data

Film Reviews: “…Pagbalikang tanaw naman natin ngayon ang mga batang karakter sa komiks. Sila ang nagbigay aliw, kinalugdan at minahal ng mga komiks readers noon, particularly ng ating mga ina (kasama na dito ang yumao kong nanay) na siyang tumangkilik, nagbasa at sumubaybay sa kanilang mga kasaysayan. Unahin natin si GING, isang batang iniyakan ang kasaysayan at unang ipinakilala ng creator nito na si Mars Ravelo ka-tandem ang dibuhistang si Elpidio Torres sa mga pahina ng Liwayway Magazine noong 1963. Ito ay isinalin sa pelikula sa ilalim ng pamamahala nina Direk Cirio H. Santiago at Teodorico C. Santos. Si Vilma Santos ang gumanap sa title role na Ging…” – Arman Francisco, Komixpage, 28 June 2015 (READ MORE)

All Vilmanians and even those who just love watching old Tagalog movies must have been glued to their TV screens last Thursday afternoon when Channel 9’s “Premiere Pilipino Klasiks” aired “Ging”, Vilma Santos’ follow-up movie after she was introduced in Sampaguita Pictures’ “Trudis Liit.” Produced by Premiere Productions when Vilma was only 10 (circa 1963), “Ging” casts the now-Star for All Seasons (and Batangas Governor, too!) as a street child who is in charge of taking care of her invalid mother, played by Olivia Cenizal. In flashback fashion, we find out that Ms. Cenizal was once a big movie star who fell in love and married a young rich man (portrayed in the film by Jose Padilla, Jr.)

Padilla’s aristocratic mother (Etang Discher), unfortunately, breaks up the union and the two lovers go their separate ways. Vilma, as Ging, was born shortly after. While begging for food scraps from customers at the restaurant of the Chinese Ponga (I doubt if today’s generation have any idea who he is or how he looks like), she is spotted by Ramon D’Salva and his wife, Carol Varga. The couple immediately express their wish to adopt her. Vilma was hesitant at first at the idea – until she was promised by D’Salva that she would be sent to school, and her mother, to the hospital for medical treatment.

Once she is in the D’Salva home, the couple show their true colors. They exploit her by making her perform in vaudeville presentations. Although she is a hit and a top money maker, she is still badly treated by Varga. For one, she is not given proper nutrition to stunt her growth (child stars are supposed to be cute and small). Little Vilma rebels when she finds out that D’Salva does not fulfill his promise of sending her mother to the hospital for treatment. She runs away and in the process bumps into people related to her biological father. Padilla and Cenizal are reunited and the little heroine lives happily ever after with her parents.

“Ging” was directed by Cirio Santiago and Teodorico Santos. Although it was made in the old-fashioned way of making films (the flashback scenes in particular), the material used here is timeless – especially since there are more street children in our midst now more than ever. As far as the showbiz scene is concerned, there are still a lot of heartless impresarios today exploiting young talents in the business. But what really made “Ging” a delight to watch was the performance of the very young Vilma Santos. Even at the early age, it was clear that she was already brimming with talent. Vilma, apparently, was born into this world to perform, entertain and make people happy. She was utterly convincing in the dramatic scenes and thoroughly graceful in her musical numbers. Listang-lista – as we’d say in the vernacular. Even then, she was already living up to her showbiz title of “Star for All Seasons” because her performance in “Ging” is not only brilliant, but timeless as well. – Butch Francisco, People’s Journal 04 March 1999 (READ MORE)

Ang sarap balikan ng mga pelikula ng the Premier Acress of the Land. Mga pelikulang may mga temang napapanahon kahit sabihin pang luma na ang mga ito. May tatak Vilma Santos. GING (1964) – all of 11 years, here is the newly-crowned FAMAS best child actress sa isa sa mga title roles niya bilang anak ng laos na artista (Olivia Cenizal) na nalumpo after she gave birth to Ging (Vilma). Ang ama ni Ging ay isang bit player na Mama’s boy, si Jose Padilla, Jr.(SLN) whose mother is the screen’s perennial conravida, Etang Discher (SLN), mother of the late Panchito.

Padilla abandoned Ging and her mother on her mother’s wishes so he won’t be dropped from her “pamana” (will). Mother and daughter lived in a slum area. Their squalid lives are made bearable with the presence of a cantankerous neighbor Aruray and her son who was sired by a black G.I. named George. Aruray’s son is about Ging’s age. They practically were street urchins who beat the other kids in soliciting alms, thanks to Ging’s histrionics: she would fake syncope (play dead) and “kawawa” by relating her sad plight as an abandoned poor daughter with a paraplegic of a mother – through a song that would drive her audience at a restaurant to tears and pity – and would give her free food and money.

The ploy works all the time. Little did Ging realize that an unscupulous couple, racketeers Ramon D’Salva and Carol Varga were observing her in a restaurant and saw in her a goldmine: they would adopt her and make them rich as her talent manager. Talk of child exploitation. Reluctant at first, Ging agrees to go with the evil couple provided she would go to shool and that they would send her alcoholic mother (bagay na bagay ito sa isang artista) to the hospital for treatment. Of course, the evil and scheming couple reneged on their promises. They exploited Ging by forcing her to work overtime and would starve her so she wouldn’t grow up and lose her audience. Luckily, she has a guardian angel in Georgie Quizon, Dolphy’s erthswhile brother who, along with Aruray provided comic relief, and who would protect Vilma from her exploiters.

Young Vilma’s raw, innate talent surfaces most especially in her scenes where she vacllates or mulls in leaving her mother. Her final goodbye scene with her mother is heartbreaking, enough a motivation for a Vilma fan Nora Aunor in Iriga city to follow in her footsteps. “One day, I wanna be like Vilma, I will sing and make people cry. Love that “gripo” princess to death. Idol ko siya.” Shot in black and white and adapted from the comics to the screen by Mars Ravelo, the movie was directed by Cirio Santiago and Teodorico Santos.

The movie is a must have for any true blue Vilmanian. Listang-lista at ang husay ni Vilma rito. Naroong kumanta siya (the voice over seemed like her singing voice), sumayaw at nagdrama. Luma si Madonna doon sa isang parang La Isla Bonita number niya. One memorable scene was when she was singing her signature song to the audience of her longing to see her mother and her father – the camera captures her pain and agony and the deep wound she suffers from her abusers – a poignant scene, complete with tears and and a well-internalized acting. Bravo! Karapat-dapat na U.P. Gawad Plaridel Awardee – maliit pa lang ang dyaske, ang husay talaga. Sa katunayan, some scenes from Ging were included in the audio-visual presentation at both the FAMAS Hall of Fame awards and the recent U.P. Gawad Plaridel coronation of the Summa Cum Laude of All Philippine Actors. Ang galing-galing mo talaga, Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos-Recto! – Mario Garces, V magazine issue no. 6 2006 (READ MORE)

Georgie Quizon – “…Like Dolphy, Georgie started out in comedy roles. In fact, he was his brother’s follower noon pang nasa Sampaguita Studios si Dolph at isa siyang mainstay ditto. Nang minsang isinama ni Dolph si Georgie sa kanyang shooting ay namataan si Georgie ng isang direktor a binigyan ito ng bit role. He was found out to have his brother’s talent and soon, Georgie found himself in one picture after another, mostly in Susan Roces-starrers where he played her sidekick or friendly neighbor. Ito ang simula ng binyag ni Georgie sa pelikula. Naging sikat din siyang comedian. Kaya lang ang problema niya ay hindi siya makakatakas sa image at pangalan ng kanyang kapatid na lalong sikat. Kahit ano ang gawin niya ay siyempre, associated and identified siya kay Dolphy. “Ito ang malaki kong problema,” nabanggit ni Georgie sa amin. “But I also love my brother! Kung wala naman si Ompong ay sino kami, aber! Siguro, ganito ang buhay kung mayroon kang tanyag na kapatid na parehong propesyon. Kung sino ang mas sikat, iyon ang mas kilala. At ang hindi ay nananatili sa background. Tulad ko,” aniya. “Ako ang anino ni Dolphy. Hindi ako kilala sa sarili ko. Ako raw ay kapatid ni Dolphy. And never was I called my name. Kung minsan nga ay ako raw si Dolphy. Ganoon. “Kung minsan, I feel flattered. Pero kadalasan, tinatanggap ko na lamang nang basta ganoon. Kibit balikat baga. Ano pa nga ba ang magagawa ko? Kapatid ko iyon at sikat pa! “Kaya lang, I really want to be on my own. I want to be known as Georgie at hindi yung kapatid ni Dolphy. I am my won individual. Iba ako, iba siya. Nagkataon lamang na nagko-comedy rin ako. Kaya hindi talaga ako makakatakas sa kanyang anino,” pagtatapat ni Georgie….

…As a whole, wala naman siyang reklamo. Okey naman ang takbo ng kanyang showbiz career. Hindi siya nawawalan ng assignment. Tuwing Linggo, mayroon siyang TV show, nagge-guest din siya sa mga tanyag na shows at kung minsan, kumakanta siya sa mga roadshows, sa mga bases. “Para sa akin, tipong okey na ang lahat,” banggit pa ni Georgie. Everything’s fine. I am busy everyday. Malusog pa ang ermat, masasaya kaming lahat. Wala na yata akong mahihiling pa,” Georgie confessed. The other surviving brother of Dolphy and Georgie is named JIMMY, ang bunso sa lahat na hindi kailanman sumali sa showbiz. Nasa States siya ngayon at isang medical intern sa isang tanyag na ospital doon. Sampu sanang lahat sina Dolph, kaya lang tatlo na ang namatay. Sina Tessie, ang uang Jimmy na siyang pang-walo at si Melencio, Jr. na binawian ng buhay noong early 1970’s. Ang iba – sina Zony, Dolphy, Josie, Laura, Auring at Georgie – ay pawang naging showbiz folks at dalawa na lamang sa kanila ang aktibo sa pelikula. Sina Dolphy at Georgie nalamang, bagamat ang iba, sa pamamagitan ng kanilang mga anak, ay kasama pa rin sa iba’t ibang aspeto ng paggawa ng pelikula, particular na sa RVQ Productions syempre…” – Ross F. Celino, Jingle Extra Hot Movie Entertainment Magazine No. 20, June 22, 1981 (READ MORE)

“…Young and cute Vilma Santos is one of the few child stars who have hit the screen with continued success. Although not as well-publicized as the adult stars, she is gaining popularity with lot of fans who recognize her warm personality and talent. Her successful debut in Sampaguita Pictures’ Trusdis Liit gave her more movie offers. Vilma, who just turned 13 last Nov. 3, has been in the movies for three years and already has 16 pictures to her credit. A talented youngster, she often steals the spotlight from her senior colleagues. In Ging, Naligaw Na Anghel, Anak Ang Iyong Ina, and many other films, she was a standout in tear-jearking scenes. As a result, she is always in demand for such roles. Despite her success, Vilma remains unaffected as a child. At the St. mary’s Academy where she is a six-grader, she has more than her share of friends not because she is a celebrity but because of her natural chumminess. In fact, she is so fond of her friends that their house on Lunas St in La Loma, Quezon City is often filled with them. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Amado Santos, do not discourage her gregariousness and instead look upon it as part of her developing personality…Vilma’s movie commitments don’t prevent her from being a good student. She could have been easily way above average if only her shooting schedules sometimes do not prevent her from attending her classes. “Doing two tasks at the same time gave me a hard time at the beginning but I’ve adjusted to it now,” said this youngster who still goes for lollipops, ice cream, toys, and play. Vilma, who spends her leisure hours listening to radio dramas, dancing and playing with her three other sisters, will be seen in her coming films, Sigaw Ng Batingaw of Argo Productions…” – Julio F. Silverio, The Weekly Nation, 31 December 1965, reposted at Pelikula Atbp blog (READ MORE)

RELATED READING:

Filmography: Duwelo sa Sapang Bato (1963)

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Basic Information: Direction, Screenplay: Jose Miranda Cruz; Cast: Vilma Santos, Ronald Remy, Willie Sotelo, Bert Silva, Oscar Keesee, Vilma Valera and Liza Moreno; Production Co.: Larry Santiago Productions; Release Date: July 13, 1963

Plot Description: Duelo Sa Sapang Bato was a DZXL radio serialized drama. Serious citations are needed to find basic information about this film. One writer cited FPJ was the lead actor but this was confusing since FPJ also has a film with similar title, Bandido ng Sapang Bato. Also, the director cited for this film was Jose Miranda Cruz who also has a similar film (another serialized radio drama), Hiwaga sa Bahay Bato.

Film Achievement: On march 21, 1964, The 12th FAMAS Awards Night was held at the Fiesta Pavillion of the Manila Hotel. Vilma Valera was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Duelo sa Sapang Bato. Unfortunately, she lost to Marlene Dauden for Sapagkat Kami’y Tao Lamang. The other Vilma won that night – Vilma Santos, the child star received her first acting award for her title role film, Trudis Liit.

Film Reviews: “…Ipinanganak nga marahil si Ma. Rosa Vilma Tuazon Santos sa show business dahil sa pagitan ng taping ng “Larawan..” ay nagkasunod-sunod na ang kanyang mga pelikula…“Duelo Sa Sapang Bato” ng Larry Santiago Productions (Hulyo 13 – 22, 1963)…ng lumikha ng rekord sa takilya…Makalipas ang mga tatlong buwan, nakatanggap ng maikling sulat si Mama Santos muka lay G. Agra. Naghahanap ang Sampaguita Picutures ng batang babae na gaganap ng mahalagang papel sa “Anak, Ang Iyong Ina!” at isinali ng amain ang pangalan ni Vi. Hindi puwedeng lumiban si Papa Santos sa pinpasukang government office, at ayaw naman nilang mapahiya ang kamag-anak, kaya napilitan si Mama Santos na humingi ng day=off sa opisina (Aguinaldo’s). Pagdating sa studio, wala si G. Agra at nasa location shooting, ngunit totoong naroroon ang pangalan ni Vi, kaya’t pinapasok sila sa tanggapan. Napadaan sa harapan ni Mama Santos si Bella Flores na dala ang script ng “Trudis Liit.” Nagulumihanan si Mama Santos. Binasa niyang muli ang liham ni G. Agra. Mali yata ang napuntahan nila! Akma niyang tatawagin si Vi na noon ay nkikipaglaro sa iba pang mga bata upang yayain na itong umuwi, nang pumasok sina Mommy Vera, Dr. at Mrs. Perez, at Eddie Garcia. At doon nagsimula ang movie career ni Vi na magpahanggang ngayon ay batbat pa rin ng iba’t ibang panunuri, opinyon at konklusiyon…” – Ched P. Gonzales (READ MORE)

“…Ang Duwelo Sa Sapang Bato (July 13, 1963) ay serialized sa DZXL Radio sponsored by PMC at prinodyus ng Larry Santiago Productions. Pinangunahan ito nina Vi, Ronald Remy, Willie Sotelo, Bert Silva, Oscar Keesee, Vilma Valera at Liza Moreno. Ang sumulat ng istorya at nagdirek ay si Jose Miranda Cruz….” – Alfonso Valencia (READ MORE)

Citation Needed – Child star, Danilo Jurado’s Wikipilipinas biography listed “Duwelo Sa Sapang Bato,” directed by Jose Miranda Cruz and produced by Larry Santiago Production in 1963 as part of his filmography. – Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)

Similar Title – “…Hiwaga sa Bahay na Bato (1962-63), written and directed by Jose Miranda Cruz, stars Dalton de Castro, Flora Cristobal, Eva Darren, Teddy Santos, Noel Nolasco, Estela Grande, Lita delos Reyes, Baby Bernardo, Ernesto Fajardo, Lina Chico and Ben David…You had your first television set sometime in 1961 or 62, a black-and-white RCA Victor (there’s no color TV that time). You remember rotating the knob and tuning to Channel 3, watching old tagalog classics or Channel 7, with Uncle Bob’s Lucky 7 or reruns of Popeye animated cartoons. At this time, ABS-CBN Channel 3 premiered the first TV soap opera titled Hiwaga sa Bahay na Bato. It was aired from Monday to Saturday, 6:30 to 7:00 pm. That was in the latter part of 1962 and as a child, You were horrified seeing a monstrous and disfigured hunchback who lived beneath the stone house unknown to the owner, a filthy rich hacendero (played by Dalton de Castro). The hunchback was played by a radio talent, Ben David, who later became popular for being overacting or “OA.” He was known portraying Judas or Hudas in Lenten plays and would burst with phrases like “O…Hindi…” or “ngingit ng mga pangit” Ben David’s love interest was the very young Eva Darren, who up to now is appearing in TV soaps (now called telenovelas or teleseryes). Darren is one of the pioneers as far as TV soap operas are concerned. Hiwaga ran for about 4 to 5 months, from September 1962 to January 1963. It was one of the most successful early soap operas and made unheralded Director Jose Miranda Cruz a household name. Cruz went on to do more soap operas— Prinsipeng Tulisan, Hanggang May Buhay, Larawan ng Pag-ibig, among others. …” – Missosology (READ MORE)

“Born in Sta Cruz, Manila on November 25, 1951 to Jose Jurado a stage comedian also known as “Bembot” and wife Lydia Galura He is popularly known in showbiz circles as Danilo or Danny Jurado, a former child star of the late 50’s until the 60’s era. He was one of the most promising young actors of his time, as an adolescent he became a radio talent in the 70’s hit musical-variety show Operetang Putol-Putol of Johnny de Leon which holds the stellar cast of Edgar Mortiz, Jay Ilagan, Richard Merk, Perla Adea, Tessie Lagman-Balboa, Dolly Favorito, Joe Alvarez, Elizabeth Ledesma, Esperanza Fabon Ben David at Danny Taguiam which is written and directed by Manolo Favis…” – Wikipilipinas (READ MORE)

The Other Vilma “…Vilma Valera (her real name is Judy Johnson) is no exception. She is a “tisay” (short for mestiza). Her father, Vincent Johnson, is an American while her mother, Judy San Jose, is a Filipina from Bicol. She was born on July 2, 1945 in Bicol but she grew up in Manila. She spent many years in a convent in Quezon City which was ran by Irish sisters. She spent her years there until her third year in high school. Like many movie stars, she became preoccupied with her acting, which prevented her from finishing high school. It was when she moved to the United States, that she was finally able to complete high school and pursue higher education. Vilma’s biggest break was in 1964 in the movie, “Salambao” with Eddie Rodriguez and Van de Leon as her co-stars.

She was nominated as FAMAS best actress in “Salambao.” She was versatile as an actress that landed her in several roles in action, drama, comedy, musical with top actors at that time as her leading men: Ronnie Poe, Jr., Dolphy, Eddie Mesa, Eddie Gutierrez, among others. When LVN studio closed shop, Vilma signed a contract with Larry Santiago Production. She decided to join Larry Productions upon the invitation of Pablo Santiago, who was then the boyfriend of Vilma’s aunt Cielito Legaspi. Although Vilma had an exclusive contract with Larry Santiago Productions, she was allowed to do movies with other companies like Sampaguita Pictures and Sultana Productions. When we talked about the movie, “Pogi” (1967), which she did with Eddie Gutierrez, I couldn’t help but ask Vilma if there was any truth to the rumors back then that she got romantically involved with Eddie. She responded, “Nung magkasama kami sa “Stop, Look, and Listen,” naging close kami. Lahat ng problema ko, at kung ano-ano pa, siya ang binubulungan ko, Vilma continued. “Sa studio, laging naka-akbay sa akin si Eddie. Akala ng mga fans ko may affair kami. Hindi nila alam cover-up lang ako ng relationship nya kay Pilita Corrales. When Pilita needed to take a leave from her TV show, Eddie wanted her to take the place of Pilita. “Ako ang gusto ni Eddie na pumalit kay Pilita,” she added. “Nung pumalit ako kay Pilita, akala ng mga fans ko, kami na ni Eddie. Ang hindi nila alam, pakulo lamang namin yon.”

…Among the movies she made where she had the title role were “Reyna ng Tundo” (1964), with Amado Cortez, Van de Leon, Charlie Davao, Vic Diaz, and Willie Sotelo; “Pitong Desperada” (1964) with Liza Moreno, Miriam Jurado, Stella Suarez, Mila Montanez, Juvy Cachola and Zeny Zabala; “Mamatay sa Laban” (1964) with Willie Sotelo, Cynthia Lopez, and Eddie Rodriguez; “Naligaw na Angel” (1964) with Willie Sotelo, Maggie de la Riva, Vilma Santos and Van de Leon; “Let’s Go” (1964) starring Eddie Mesa, Jose Mari, Helen Gamboa, Reycard Duet, Elizabeth Ramsey, and Jerry Pons; “Danilo Ronquillo: Cavite Boy” (1965) starring Jun Aristorenas, Van de Leon and Ponga; “Kay Tagal ng Umaga” (1965) with Lolita Rodriguez, Marlene Dauden, Eddie Rodriguez with special participation of Vilma Santos. “”Pogi” (1967) with Eddie Gutierrez and Nora Aunor as guest star; “Shake-a-Boom” (1997) with Dolphy, Merci Molina, Ike Lozada, and Norma Ledesma; “Way Out in the Country” (1967) with Bert Leroy, Jr. Blanca Gomez, Gina Pareno, Edgar Salcedo and Ricky Belmonte; “Batang Matadero” (1969) with Fernando Poe, Jr.; “Nardong Kutsero” (1969) with Fernando Poe, Jr., Paquito Diaz, Pablo Virtuoso, and Dencio Padilla’ “Boogaloo” (1968) with Helen Gamboa, Bobby Gonzales, and Roger Calvin.

…Vilma was not only a movie star but also a singer. She remembers well her years as a choir member while she was at the convent. That was how she developed her singing talent, which later on became part of her career. “I really wanted to be a singer, so I joined a band,” she said. She put up her own band, “R-Gents Band” (so named because all the names of the members of the band started with letter “R.” She studied how to play the drums. Eventually she was not only the band’s soloist singer but also a drum player. The band performed in Hawaii, Okinawa, and Asian countries. At one event, she had a concert with Eddie Mesa. In between her concert tours, she would make movies. Vilma recorded several albums before her retirement from show business. Her signature songs were “It Must Be Him” and “One Day…” – Romy R. Protacio (READ MORE)