Si Sister Stella L at ang Musika ng Panahon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Film Criticism - "...Early days of Manunuri, ang palagi kong binabasa ay ang reviews ni Jun Cruz Reyes. Jun Cruz' movie reviews were shaped up by the existing social injustices. Unlike most of the Manunuris na kadalasan, ang kanilang reviews reeked of the formalist tradition of the academe. You can't read Jun Cruz these days, but I make it a point to read a Mario Bautista review in this mag. I noticed Mario has gone beyond the formalist approach. In Soltero, Mario deplores the fact na ang boredom ng middle-class ay iba sa boredom ng masa - 'yung Pinoy whose basic problem is how to make both ends meet. Which is true. Mario did the same in his review of Sister Stella L, which I would call the movie of the decade, if not the height of Philippine cinema. I'm always partial to movie reviewers and artists as well whose hearts and eyes are with the masses. Kasi nga, given two equally well-crafted movies, to judge say Soltero or Sister Stella L., ang reviewer na walang social consciousness would have second thoughts of giving the highest award to Sister Stella L. Film criticism, as we know do change with the temperaments of a particualar time and milieu. Pati ang kosepto ng magandang pelikula must change. Kung nasa Third World country ka, kailangang may pagbabago ang batayan mo ng isang magandang pelikula dahil sa limitations. Kung nasa First World country ka naman, s'yempre iba rin ang pamantayan. Puwedeng gamiting pamantayan ang elitist view of art na pa-universal-universal-kuno. Naniniwala ako an art must serve to humanize the conditions of the sorry lot, and not just the conditions of the few elitist groups. After all, art and its greater number of poeole ought to shape each other. Ano'ng pakialam ng mga nagugutom na Pinoy sa boredom ni Jay Ilagan sa pelikulang Soltero? Mas nakaka-identify pa siguro sila sa exploitation theme ng Sister Stella L. kaysa Soltero, di ba? All other factors being equal, sa dalawang movies na ito, I guess those who cannot go beyond the chains of formalist approach to reviewing will take Soltero anytime, pero for those whose orientation is one of social concern, Sister Stella L. would be their kind of movie, Ang tanong, kailan naman kaya mapapanood ng masa ang Sister Stella L.? These days of sheer elitism, we need reviewers like Mario Bautista. Napuna n'yo ba, na wala nang ginawa ang vanguards of Philippine Cinema kundi, hala, magbigayan ng awards taun-taon. Wala silang paki sa mga masang Pinoy na naglulupasay sa kahirapan. As if they make movies para lang magkaroon sila ng elitistang seremonya year in and year out. Pag magkakagulo na ang Pilipinas katulad ng nangyari sa Nicaragua, siguro, 'yon na. Magigising na tayo sa kahibangan ng mga pa-award-award blues natin. Meantime, let's enjoy the circus of showbiz. Magpakahilo at magpakabaliw tayo like what Nero did amidst the burning Rome. The signs of bad times are coming. When that time comes, we must know which side of the fence to take para hindi tayo magmukhang daga na bumabahag ang buntot. 'Yong lang at 'yon na..." - BCMatignas, Movie Flash Magazine, 14 June 1984 (READ MORE)

Channel 2 - "...Kung napuna ninyo, sa top 20 programs, dadalawa ang nanggaling sa Channel 2, ang VIP at ang 2 + 2 na medyo malayo pa ang agwat. Siyam ang galing sa Channel 13; tatlo ang sa Channel 9 at anim ang galing sa Channel 7. Hindi maikakailang pinakamahina ang Channel 2. 'Di ba't nag-closeshop na ang Okey Sha! ni Sharon Cuneta dahil hindi ito kumikita, samantalang 'yung iba pang programa sa Channel 2 ay hirap na hirap na ring mag-rate, kabilang na rito, ayon kay Inday Badiday, ang True Confession ng mga Bituin na idinidirek ni Gene Palomo, na kung tutuusin ay may kakaibang format na nagugustuhan ng masa. Noong December nga'y nasa number 29 na ito pero ngayon ay nasa below 40 na. Malungkot ngang isipin na sa kabila ng pagpapaganda ng mga programa sa Channel 2 ay hindi ito gaanong napapanood sa malalayong lugar. Sabi nga ng mga nakausap namin, "Dito lang kami sa Pasay, pero malabung-malabo ang reception ng Channel 2, kaya iba na lang ang pinapanood namin." At ang napag-alaman pa nga namin na lalong di na makapanood ang mga taga-Alabang, Muntinlupa, Cavite at iba pang parte ng Metro Manila at katagulan. Kaugnay nito, nagbaba ng memo ang City 2 Television para sa mga station-co-produced na programang wala sa top 20. Ayon sa memo, bibigyan na lang sila ng tatlong buwan mula noong May 15, 1984 para pataasin ang rating ng kanilang mga programa. At least day, ayon pa sa memo, ay makapagpapatuloy nito sa ere. Kung hindi, tulad ng Okey Sha! at iba pang programa sa 2, na hindi na napapanood, ikakansela na lang nila. Tulad ng True Confessions ng Loca Productions, sinabi ni Inday Badiday, na ililipat na lang siguro nila sa Channel 13 ang programa para tumaas ang rating nito dahil 'yon lang ang paraan, yaman di lamang na napatunayang kokonti ang nakakapanood sa Channel 2. Humihina ang programa hindi dahil sa uri ng palabas kundi kapos sa viewership, hindi gaya sa Channel 13. "Siguro, kung ang See-True ay nasa Channel 2, mahihirapan ding maka-number 1," sabi ni Inday..." - George Vail Kabristante, Movie Flash Magazine, 14 June 1984 (READ MORE)

Vi in Cage Pageant - Miss Vilma Santos, local movie superstar, adds glamour to the prestigious 7th Asian Basketball Confederation championship which opened yesterday at the Rizal Memorial Colliseum. With Miss Santos are Executive Secreatry Alejandro Melchor (L), BAP presidential Lito Puyat and the shotmen of India and Indonesia.

The Blockbusters of the Year - "According to reliable reports from varios sources - the public relation men, the bookers, and the producers themselves - the top box office hits of the year are, so far, the first five: 1. RVQ's "Dancing Master" directed by Jett Espiritu statting Dolphy and Nida Blance; 2. D'Wonder Films' "Kuwatog" directed by Baby Navoa, starring Nino Muhlach; FPJ's "Mahal, Saan Ka Nanggaling Kagabi?" directed Pablo Vergara, starring Fernando Poe Jr. and Susan Roces; Lea's "Rock, Baby Rock!" directed by Oscar Miranda, starring Vilma Santos and Junior; 5. Regal's "Disgrasyada" directed by Elwood Perez, starring Rio Locsin and Rolly Quizon...." - TV Times Magazine, December 30 - Jan 5 1980

Vi In NYC - "...I was very excited to meet Vilma Santos in New York today. “Ate Vi” is a living legend in the Philippines. Fans have dedicated their lives for decades worshiping her. She’s in New York filming a movie written by my friend Raymond Lee. I think I’ll follow them around over the weekend. Over the past few years Vilma Santos transformed herself from an actress to a politician. She was the mayor of Lipa City for almost 10 years, until she became the Governor of Batangas Province (pop. 2 million) in 2007. There is talk that she might run for President of the Philippines in 2010. Filipinos have a habit of electing former movie-stars into public office. I’m excited..." - Rickey (READ MORE)

Battle of Superstars - A tear fell when Nora Aunor was declared Best Actress for her role as a maide (a tailor-made role, as her detractors describe with glee) in Ian Films' Atsay and it was a tear of joy. Atsay has been called Nora's "last card" and that if it wouldn't make it at the Metro Manila Filmfest, Nora would be down and out and she might as well say goodbye to the movies. But Nora Aunor has a certain magic that is hard to discern until now. Just when everybody is casting stones at her and predicting doom fo her career and turning against her because her movies hadn't been making as well as expected, the Little Brown Girl from Iriga would bounce right back to the top, not without vengeance, and reclaim her throne. In last week's Metro Manila Filmfest Awards at the Cultural Center, Nora fought a "decisive" battle for supremacy against her nearest rival, Vilma Santos, who was said to be the other contender for the Best Performer trophy for her role as Rubia Servios (although others claim that it was really Phillip Salvador who was Nora's biggest competition for the plum statuette, Phillip's performance in Rubia Servios being his best and his most credible so far). Vilma's last year's Best Actress for her role in the controversy-ridden film Burlesk Queen (also produced by this year's producer of Best Film Atsay, Ian Films), took her defeat not without a wan smile of disappointment. In this spread, you can see the two faces of showbiz: that of the Victor and that of the Vanquished. The awards night was a veritable of superstars. 1978 was Vilma's year. Will 1979 be Nora's? - Expressweek, January 18, 1979, Photograph by Eddie Alfonso (READ MORE)

Reunion of the Year - "...At ngayon, naririto pa ang ibang awards na iginagawad ng Movie Flash para sa iba pang important events and people in local movies for the year 1983...Reunion of the Year - Hindi po ang Famas Grand Reunion na inabot ng alas kuwatro ng umaga kundi ang pagbabalik ni Edu Manzano sa asawa niyang si Vilma Santos...and so, after two peso devaluation that made our currency a relative of mickey mouse money, after galloping inflations that sent the prices of basic commodities soaring so high heavens, we are all wondering what's in store for the Philippines and the Filipinos in the year of our Lord one thousand nine hundred and eighty four A.D. More peso devaluations? More rallies? More censorship? More problems and less and less solutions? The important things is for us not to lose our sense of humor in the face of forthcoming calamities. From Movie Flash to all our readers, seasons greeting and brac yourselves for '84!" - The Movie Flash Staff, Movie Flash Magazine, 05 January 1984 (READ MORE)

Deborah Sun - "...Bonggang-bongga ang papel ni Deborah Sun sa "Pakawalan Mo Ako." Even her co-stars here, Vilma Santos, Christopher de Leon, and Anthony Castelo joked na madalas silang maagawan ng eksena ni Deborah. Tila nga lalong tumataas ang career ni Gigi (her monicker in real life). Bukod sa "Pakawalan," lumabas din siya sa "Rosang Tatak" at sa highly successful na first directorial job ni Bembol Roco, ang "Asal Hayop..." - Artista Magazine, 1981 (READ MORE)

Ayaw Kong Maging Querida on February 20th - "...Last Jan. 31, the Mowelfund, PMPPA, Film Academy of the Philippines and IMPIDAP threw a cocktail party at the Luzon room of the Philippine Plaza ballroom for the MIFF guests and delegates. Manny de Leon arrived promptly with Tierra Alexandra at 5:30 p.m. but decided to wait at the lobby when he learned there wasn't anyone yet in the hall except the waiters. The American vice consul arrived next and then Fred Marshall, Hongkong-based correspondent who's a fixture at Asian film festivals. Aling Miling Blas looked pleased as punch during the affair. She said German buyer bought her Hell Train for $15,000 which was directed by Cirio Santiago last year with American actors and actresses in the cast. She said she nixed another offer of $35,000 for the European territory rights to the film except Germany. Atty. Espiridion Laxa said she could get a higher price for it. Atty. Laxa's Vilma Santos stateside picture, Ayaw Kong Maging Querida, was already in the can and booked for Feb. 20, he said...Atty. Laxa reminded everybody that the First Lady was expecting to see producers and movie personalities at her Fort Santiago affair at eight that same evening. The coffee shop of the Philippine Plaza was a favorite spot of the movie crowd during the MIFF. After the coctail party, we saw Eddie Garcia in coat and tie dining with attractive girl at the coffee shop. Tony Ferrer later came in with Lando Navarette, Amay Bisaya and several other companions. Then Armida Siguion-Reyna walked in. We were sipping coffee at a table with Manay Ichu Maceda, Jesse Ejercito, Manny Nuqui, Nick Lizaso and Rolfie Velasco when Celso Ad Castillo joined us. The kid seem to have regained his confidence with the success of Virgin People." - Danny Villanueva, Movie Flash Magazine, 24 February 1983 (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)

Ruel Vernal's "Bulaklak" - "...Naging pangarap ko ang gumanap sanang ala-Marlon Brando sa pelikula o sa stage. Bigat n'yon sana! Natupad sana ito nang matipuhan ako ni Lino Brocka para lumabas nga ng papel ni Stanley Kowalski sa "Flores Para Los Muertos" noong 1978 pero nag-twist ang pangyayari. Nangailangan sila ng bagong mukha at si Philip Salvador nga ang nakuha...Para sa akin, si Vilma Santos ang pinakamapanghalina at pinakamagandang aktres sa pelikulang Tagalog. Hindi ko siya pinupuri dahil sa kumare ko si Vi, a! Para sa akin, si Vi ay tulad sa isang bulaklak na dapat ingatan at alagaang mabuti. Dapat siyang diligin ng pagmamahal at pang-unawa..." (Ruel Vernal played the original Limbo in the 1981 film about reincarnation, Danny Zialcita's Karma. He also co-starred with Vi in 1973's "Lipad, Darna, lipad!" and in 1977's "Pulot gata, Puede Kaya?"). - Arthur Quinto, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine 03 March 1980 (READ MORE)

A Sophisticate - "...Oskar Peralta's clothes are, more often than not, romantic as the heroiness of his childhood movie days, "but romance is not one of suppression and sacrifice, his clothes are romantic but free...Vilma Santos - "Vi has develop her taste for sensible dressing in clothes that are simple, understated, elegant pieces that work, that makes her life easy. I see in her a well-groomed woman - sophisticated, not wasting herself to those "sock-it-to-me" numbers. Impressively, I believe she is one who wishes to fall into the background. A sophisticate..." - Movie Flash Magazine, 25 November 1982 (READ MORE)

The Most Finicky - "...Here is his choice of ten best dressed women in Philippine Cinema. But don't you dare raise your eyebrows, if you don't agree with him, because as he reasons out, "some of our actresses may dress well, kaya lang, hindi ko nakikita." What a good excuse really but knowing the exposure and back-ground of this guy, the ten best in his list are really what you may call the "deserving one." Here they are...Vilma Santos: "I never liked her during her younger years, when she used to wear boots. But as a dresser, I think Vilma has gone a long, long way and I think that's an achievement in itself, di ba? In showbusiness, I think Vilma is the most finicky, na maski maliit ang slit, hindi na niya gagamitin and I can attest to that..." - Phillip Garcia, Jr., Movie Flash Magazine, 25 November 1982 (READ MORE)

Erratic but comfortable - "...Ben Farrales is snynonymous with the word "haute couture" in the Philippines. He is an institution. Here's his list of 10 best dressede actresses in R.P. Cinema...Vilma Santos - Erratic, but appears comfortable from bathing suits to formal wear..." - Movie Flash Magazine, 06 January 1983 (READ MORE)

1982 MMFF - "The Metro Manila Film Festival has become an institution in the movie industry and producers are eager to participate in this Christmas holiday bonanza. No doubt it has contributed to stimulating a larger audience for local films as well as to artistic improvements in the film crafts. Joseph Estrada has been spearheading the annual filmfest in his capacity as Mowelfund president with the support of the First Lady and assistance of the Cultural Center of the Philippines. The filmfest encompasses more than 120 theaters in the three cities and 14 municipalities in Metro Manila for a period of 10 days. This year's filmfest was attended by strong interest in the industry because of an annoucement that the oustanding film entries may be subtitled and sent to Cannes and other prestigious film events. The jockeying for the 10 slots in the Metro Manila Film Festival of the box-office harvest, which has skyrocketed from a mere P8 million to P18 million in a period of three years. Winning the best picture award in the festival, as Brutal and Kisapmata had shown, could mean success at the Metro Manila tills but also in the provinces. The event has discovered a new action star in Lito Lapid and boosted careers of Ginal Alajar, Vilma Santos, Nora Aunor and other award winners. The Metro Manila filmfest has produced such memorable films as Burlesk Queen and Atsay...." - Movie Flash Magazine, 1982 (READ MORE)

Nangunguna at Kulelat - "Nasa ikatlong araw na ngayon (Monday, Dec 27) ang 1982 Metro Manila Film Festival na nagsimula noong Dec 25, Saturday, at ngayon pa lamang ay nadarama na ng mga producer ang kanilang kapalaran sa takilya. Nakangiti na 'yong mga nangunguna at lulugo-lugo naman 'yong kulelat. Subalit hindi pa tapos ang festival. Ngayong gabi, Dec. 27, Monday, ay ang Gabi ng Parangal sa Cultural Center (Main Theater) at dito'y tiyak na lalabas na naman ang dalawang mukha na simbolo ng show business. Isang nakatawa at isang umiiyak. Makikita ngayong gabi ang simbulong ito sa paggagawad ng karangalan sapagkat tiyak na ang mga magwawagi ng mga pangunahing karangalan ay nangakangiti at 'yong mamalasan ay tutunganga na lang. Sa gabing ito ibabatay ang tunay na kalalabasan ng festival sa susunod pang pitong araw. Dikasi ang magaganap ngayong gabi ang siyang magdudulot ng pagbabago sa takbo ng labanan sa takilya....Sa sampung pelikulang naglalaban-laban, di lang sa takilya kundi sa karangalan, ang unang paboritong magta-top gross ay ang Santa Claus is Coming to Town ng Regal, Panday Ikatlong Yugto ng FPJ, Himala ng ECP, Moral ng Seven Star Films at Haplos ng Mirick Films. Ang mga paborito namang magwawagi ng awards: sa Best Actor, mahigpit ang labanan nina Robert Arevalo sa Santa Claus at Christopher de Leon sa Haplos. Sa Best Actress, labanang umaatikabo rin sina Vilma Santos sa Haplos, Lorna Tolentino sa Moral at Nora Aunor sa Himala..." - Movie Flash Magazine, 1982 (READ MORE)

Ace Vergel's Preference - "...Ipinanganak si Ace noong Nobyembre 20 sa sinyal ng Scorpio. Beynte kuwatro na siya. Hilig ang soft at disco music. Allergy sa sea foods. Likes blue and brown shades. Keeps himself physically fit through exercise and basketball. Prefers books on human interests like the Vietnam War, etc. Digs frank people and unpretentious ones. Lost virginity at the age of 12 to a 19-year-old girl. Prefers sweet ladies. And has sweet words for Vilma Santos. "Para sa akin ang pagka-sexy ng isang babae ay ang kanyang kabuuan. Si Vi ay maganda at friendly. Sa palagay ko, na kay Vilma na yata ang lahat..." - Arthur Quinto, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, 10 March 1980 (READ MORE)

Little Big Stars - "There is a saying that "Good things come in small packages." In the movies, some of the most successful and the most talented are "small people....Then, of course, there's Vilma Santos. Despite a failed marriage and near financial disaster in 1980, Santos has become, barring none, the most successful actress in local cinema. And she stands at five feet flat. She is a success not necessarily because she is more talented than her peers but mainly due to her remarkable sense of good timing and her capacity for learning. The top actress has a knack for picking the right project at the right time and she apparently learns from every mistakes she makes. When Santos co-hosted with the Apo at the Metro Pop Music Festival in 1982, many has criticized her, saying that she should just stick to acting. But that hosting stint has earned for her a regular job - first on Channel 2's VIP and now on Channel 7's Vilma. Curiosly, Santos often seems to know where to place herself and make it work to her advantage. And wasn't it only last year when she sat down as a judge at the Bb. Pilipinas beauty pageant? The fact is, for more than 25 long years, Santos has continuously come up with surprise that have made her fans closer to her. No wonder a lot of people consider her the female counterpart of Fernando Poe Jr..." - Meg Mendoza, Manila Standard, 28 July 1988 (READ MORE)

Nalagpasan na si Nora - "...Para sa isang artistang tulad ni Nora Aunor, oras-ang panahon ang tunay na kaaway. Mahigit na sampung taon siyang nasa itaas, pero bumaba man ang kanyang popularidad sa tuktok ng kanyang tagumpay ng maski kalahi, hindi pa rin ito kayang abutin ng ibang artistag tulad niya-maliban na nga marahil kay Vilma Santos. Noong una, talagang walang pasubaling segunda lang si Vilma kay Nora, peron nitong nakaraang tatlong taon, medyo nagiging ptas na ang labanan. At habang steady wika nga ang takbo ng career ni Vilma, maraming ups and downs ang kay Nora. Ngayon ay mas malaki ang presyong tinatanggap ni Vilma kaysa kay Nora, ngayon mas maraming pelikulang kumikita si Vilma. At dahil ang tunay na labanan naman ng mga artista ay hindi sa dami ng mga fans o sa dami ng mga mangingibig o sa dami ng mga pakulo at gimmicks kundi sa dami ng mga taong nanonood ng kani-kanilang pelikula. Nitong nakaraang dalawang taon, masasabing nalagpasan na ni Vilma Santos ang lakas ni Nora sa takilya. Marahil dahil sa trend ng pelikula ay may pagka-bold na puwede pang sagupain ni Vilma samantalang sa sarili na rin niyang pagtatapat, hindi kaya ni Nora ang magbold-dahil wala naman daw siyang ipapakita. Pero lubhang bold ang tunay na buhay ni Nora. Ang kanyang masalimuot na romansang kinabibilangan nina Manny de Leon, Tirso Cruz, Joseph Estrada, Christopher de Leon, Rolly Quizon-katotohanan man on hindi ay lubhang interesante para sa madlang nagaabang ng kapira-pirasong kahinaan ng kanilang idolo..." - Ric D. Romasanta, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine 26 November 1979 (READ MORE)

Method vs Classical Acting - "...Sa Amerika at iba pang bansa, palasak ang mga organized schools of acting na doon ay p'wedeng mag-enrol ang isang nag-aambisyong mag-artista at nang ma-refine niya o lalong mapagbuti ng anumang likas niyang kakayahan sa pag-arte. Isa sa mga pinakatanyag nilang acting techniques ay iyong tinatawag na Method Acting. Ang taguriang The Method ay pinaiklu mula orihinal na Stanislovsky Method, sinulan noong 1909 bg Rusong aktor-direktor na si Konstantin Stanislavsky. Si Stanislavsky ay mula sa Moscow Art Theatre at ang kanyang pamosong pamamaraan sa pag-arte ay pinakilala naman sa Estados Unidos ng kanyang mga disipulo. Ang Method Acting ay isang well-rounded system of training na binibigyang-pansin hindi lamang ang pag-arte kundi pati na ang wastong pagtindig, paglakad, at paggamit ng boses. Ang pinakabantog na paaralan ng Method Acting ay ang Actor's Studio ni Lee Strasberg sa Nuweba York. Si Strasberg yung matandang aktor na marahil ay napanood na ninyo sa "The Godfather II" at sa "Casandra Crossing." Ang pinakatanyag niyang estudyante ay sina Marlon Brando, Julie Harris, Patricia Neal at ang yumaong James Dean...Sa pelikulang Pilipinoay maaaring hatiin ang mga uri ng pag-arte sa dalawang pangkat. Ang una'y kinabibilangan nina Lolita Rodriguez at Nora Aunor. Ang pangalawa'y binubuo nina Charito Solis at Vilma Santos. Ang istilo ng acting nina Lolita ay banayad, mahinahon, pigil. Ang nadarama'y mababasa sa mga mata at sa bahagyang kiling ng ulo o sa kilos ng katawan. Kung ihahambing dito ang klase ng arte nina Charito, ay iyon namang matatawag na obvious, halos natatawag ng pansin. Kung nagagalit ay talagang hysterical na, nangininig ang mga labi, nandidilat ang mga mataat nagtutumili sa pagsasalita (ang buong katawa'y nangangatal).

Natatandaan marahil ninyo si Charito doon sa eksena sa "Araw-Araw, Gabi-Gabi" (nanalo siya rito ng best actress sa Manila Filmfest) na muli silang nagkasama-sama ng kanyang mga napahiwalay na kapatid. Napaluhod pa siya at napahagulgol sa matinding tuwa. (Pero tila nagbago na si Ms. Solis sa ganitong estilo mula nang mahawakan siya ni Brocka "Larawan"). Natatandaan din siguro ninyo si Vilma Santos sa "Dama De Noche" (nanalo siya rito ng best actress sa Famas), doon sa eksenang dinala siya sa pagamutan ng mga baliw at nang matuklasan niya ito'y nagsisigaw siya, nanlalaki pati mga butas ng ilong at halos lumuwa ang mata sa galit. Sa malas naman ay ito ang higit na naiibigang istilo sa pagarte ng ating publiko. Kung bigay-tudo at eksaherado ay mas maganda para sa kanila. Di ba't maging sa buntalan ay mas nagugustuhan nila yung matatagal na eksena ng bakbakang walang patlang ang palitan ng mga suntok at sipa? Makakaama nina Lolita at Nora sa kanilang liga sina Marlene Dauden, Rita Gomez, Susan Roces, Hilda Koronel, Elizabeth Oropeza, Beth Bautista at Lorna Tolentino. Sa kabilang kampo naman nina Charito at Vilma ay puwedeng idagdag sina Pilar Pilapil, Amalia Fuentes, Chanda Romero, Rosemarie Gil, Alma Moreno, Rio Locsin at Amy Austria..." - Mario E. Bautista, Jingle Extra Hot Magazine, 11 February 1980 (READ MORE)

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

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

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

News Clippings Collection

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

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

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

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

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

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

Once There Was a Love - "...Aga's on and off career worked to a great disadvantage, making producers and fans shun away from him. However, his wholesome, totally refreshing and boyishly-appealing look makes him adorable on screen. His latest TV opus with Vilma Santos titled "Once There Was a Love" was a success prompting many producers to get him again in the movies. Asked why his carer never really took off, he says: "Well, I lack the much-needed support in my career. There were many times I'm almost there, tapos wala namang kasunod agad; so napaglilipasan agad, di ba? I am also partly to be blamed because I was in a limbo for a while. All I know and care about is that I have the money spend on luxurious cars, squash, water sports and my nightlife. I also keep on changing managers." This year, Aga is quite determined to become serious with his career. he's slated to do movies outside Regal Films - for RJ Films, Seiko and Viva. It also means having to lose weight for his comeback on the big screen. He says: "I want to look really good when I start doing more movies this year. I'm on a liquid diet. I don't eat anything. For the meantime I only drink juice, water and slim-fast." Aside from cutting his food intake, Aga likewise cuts his expenses. "I'm really saving for the future now. I can't afford to maintain more expensive cars (at the moment he only owns two European cars, a 230-E and a 7-35). I also have to do away with my water sports for awhile. Alam ko ang mawalan ng pera and one thing with me, I never run to my parents to ask for some if I need it. Ever since I started working at afe 14, I'm my own..." - Jackie R, Manila Standard, 09 Jan 2013, p17 (READ MORE)

First Meeting - "...Vilma Santos did not expect that her first experience at the Lower House could be so pleasant. "They were very nice. I was expecting that they'll just tolerate me kasi artista lang ako, but they even posed with me," she shared. Glas de Venecia, wife of the speaker, asked her to join the Congressional Ladies Group. Ate Vi said that as soon as things settle down after the December 11 wedding to be held at the Lipa Cathedral, she will organize a foundation for street children. First in Lipa and later here in Metro Manila. Vi said that her latest movie Sinungaling Mong Puso, slated to open today is inspired by her tele-movie, Oce There Was A Love which also starred Aga Muhlach. "I really wanted Aga to be my leading man in this movie since we started our tele-movie." The movie also reminded her of the time when she and Ralph met for the first time. He was then only 21, or 11 years her junior. Vi does not plan to stop making movies. "I'll be bored with just being a housewife,"she averred. "Sinungaling..., she said, "is the story of three women and how they relate to the men in their lives. This is more intense compared to Ipagpatawad Mo. She is set to do two more movies this year - one for Moviestar with Cesar Montano and Ronnie Rickets to be directed by Chito Roño; and another one for OctoArts with perennial screen partner, Christopher de Leon with Mike de Leon as director..." - Nena VManila Standard, 27 Aug 1992 (READ MORE)

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

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

First Meeting - "...Vilma Santos did not expect that her first experience at the Lower House could be so pleasant. "They were very nice. I was expecting that they'll just tolerate me kasi artista lang ako, but they even posed with me," she shared. Glas de Venecia, wife of the speaker, asked her to join the Congressional Ladies Group. Ate Vi said that as soon as things settle down after the December 11 wedding to be held at the Lipa Cathedral, she will organize a foundation for street children. First in Lipa and later here in Metro Manila. Vi said that her latest movie Sinungaling Mong Puso, slated to open today is inspired by her tele-movie, Oce There Was A Love which also starred Aga Muhlach. "I really wanted Aga to be my leading man in this movie since we started our tele-movie." The movie also reminded her of the time when she and Ralph met for the first time. He was then only 21, or 11 years her junior. Vi does not plan to stop making movies. "I'll be bored with just being a housewife,"she averred. "Sinungaling..., she said, "is the story of three women and how they relate to the men in their lives. This is more intense compared to Ipagpatawad Mo. She is set to do two more movies this year - one for Moviestar with Cesar Montano and Ronnie Rickets to be directed by Chito Roño; and another one for OctoArts with perennial screen partner, Christopher de Leon with Mike de Leon as director..." - Nena VManila Standard, 27 Aug 1992 (READ MORE)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Song For The Homeless

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If Vilma comes, can Edgar be far behind?

I saw this book of Lorna Kalaw Tirol titled “Above the crowd.” It caught my attention when I saw the drawing of Vilma’s face which was the most beautiful one compared to other caricatures. This book contained interviews of Kris, Kuh, Nora, Lino Brocka and others. The pictures was illustrated by Nonoy Marcelo. Let me share you the article about Vi (Vilma Santos) and Bot (Edgar Mortiz). “If Vilma comes, can Edgar be far behind? In the colorful world of the Filipino movie fan, circa 1971, the ideological lines (with all due respect to the radicals and the moderators in the movement) are sharply drawn. One is either for Nora Aunor or for Vilma Santos. One cannot like both and be worthy of the name “movie fan.” In fact, there are no fans in the case of Nora and Vilma; they are only fanatics. Nora, her loyal subjects maintain, has a far better singing voice than Vilma. That, counters the Santos camp, is because Vilma is primarily an actress and only incidentally a singer. And Vilma of the doll-like face is definitely the prettier of the two, her fanatics boast.

There, we think, the debate should end. The assignment was to interview Vilma Santos for a cover story. We were told that we could catch her one Saturday morning at an Antipolo resort where she was shooting Wonderful World of Music for Tagalog Ilang Ilang. Her director was there, all right, and so was Snooky (child star), too self conscious and too small for her age. But Vilma was still in Cabanatuan, and so was Edgar. The following Wednesday she was scheduled to start filming for another Tagalog Ilang Ilang picture, Young Lovers. With a title like that, we thought, the movie couldn’t be anything but a further buildup of the Edgar-Vilma love team. But who wants a story when you can have your fill of Vilma and Edgar exchanging sweet words and glances? We were at this house in Quezon City, site of the first day of shooting, at nine in the morning. The entire cast and crew were there, except for the leading lady and her leading man. When they arrived an hour and a half later, the place seemed to come alive.

The young lovers were chaperoned by Mrs. Santos, pretty and amply proportioned. We were relieved to see none of the burly tomboys who smothered Nora. It was Edgar Mortiz, with his height and size, who looked more like Vilma’s bodyguard. If he were slim and shorter, he could pass for her shadow. Yet it is difficult to imagine him in the role of bodyguard, he is what older folk would describe as mukhang musmos pa. Edgar Mortiz is, in fact, younger than Vilma Santos who, at 17, is no giggly teenager. She is a woman and she knows it. “A LOT of people tell me that I am very mature for my age” she says at the start of the interview. “I feel it myself. I like to think that I have the mind of 23-yearold woman.” She speaks with unusual poise and selfconfidence, a self-assurance which must explain why she strikes some people as suplada. Vilma had little time to be a child. When she was nine and a student at St. Mary’s Academy in Manila, an uncle who was a cameraman at Sampaguita introduced her to Dr. Jose Perez. Not long afterward, Rosa Vilma Santos made her first film, Trudis Liit, where she played the title role. Shooting schedules were arranged so as not to conflict with her studies: she attended school in the morning, reported to the set in the afternoon. More pictures for Sampaguita followed, including two on the life of Ferdinand Marcos, in which she was cast as Imee. When the time came for Vilma to choose between school and a film career, she readily chose the latter. “We study so we can get a job later, di ba? Well, I have a job already.”

When she does decide to resume her studies (she was in fourth year high school when she quit), she wants to go into fine arts. Right now however, her thoughts are on her career and, if we are to believe her studio’s drumbeaters, Edgar. Is he or isn’t he? That is as intriguing a question to their fanatics as Imelda Marcos’s political ambition is to newspaper columnists. The love team of Vilma and Edgar has been going strong for two years now. Whether on TV’s Sensations and Edgar Loves Vilma or on radio’s “Hot line 1250 with Edgar and Vilma” or in advertising gimmicks, the latest of which is birthday party with Vilma and Edgar, the team-up has proved to be a hit. They are, in addition, neighbors somewhere in Quezon City. Doesn’t she get tired of being paired with him? “Of course not,” she says petulantly. Whether their apparent fondness for each other is the real thing or just plain acting is hard to tell. When not holding hands, which is most of the time, they have their arms around each other. “I’m not really a singer,” Vilma admits, “but Edgar is teaching me how to sing.” Love team come and go, but that is the least of Vilma’s worries. Show business is her world. She wants to stay in it for as long as she can. “Sana magtagal ako”, she says. Even without Edgar? - Asia-Philippines Leader July 9, 1971

Today, Vilma Santos is still the most bankable star of Philippine cinema. Her movies continued to be boxoffice hits. She is the most awarded actress in the country and a respected public servant. Edgar on the other hand is now a TV director. He now a happy family man. He’s now part of the Teleserye “Kampanerang Kuba” which happened to be the remake of a Vi & Bot hit during the 70’s. Recently, Vilma was one of the sponsors of Edgar’s daughter’s wedding The former love team are now Kumpares & Kumares. - Franco Gabriel, V Magazine 2007

Related Reading:

• Love Letters (1970)
• Vilma Santos-Edgar Mortiz Love Team Circa 1970
• Vilma Santos From Wikipedia
• Edgar Mortiz From Wikipedia
• Ultimate Scrapbook (Repost)