“Sa panahon ko ngayon, parang gusto ko na lang na, pag gumawa ako, gusto ko rin yung character that will challenge me so that I will get the inspiration again,” shared Vilma Santos-Recto during a talkback session at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) on November 27. The veteran actress, affectionately known as the Star for All Seasons, captivated the audience with her reflections on her illustrious career, her current approach to roles, and the exciting challenges of her latest project.
A Golden Era in Film
Ate V. began by reminiscing about her “golden years” in the industry.
“Matagal na rin ako sa industriya at saka 35 years old na ako ngayon. Ang kapal! Kasi ito, talagang golden years ‘to e! 70s, 80s, 90s… Do’n ko nagawa yung talagang mga magagandang pelikula na pinapanood natin ngayon. ‘Anak’, ‘Sister Stella L’, ‘Ipagpatawad Mo’ (about autism), ‘Dolzura Cortez’, ‘Dekada ’70,’ ‘Bata Bata Paano Ka [Ginawa]?'”
Her career flourished during this period, creating timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences. However, she also acknowledged taking a step back from the industry during her 24 years as a public servant, though she still managed to produce a few films during that time.
Evolving as an Actress
As she discussed her transition back to film, Ate V. highlighted her quest for meaningful and challenging roles.
“Medyo nag-lie low ako sa industry. And at the same time, siyempre, nadagdagan naman yung edad mo, so naghahanap na rin ako ng mga ibang klase na mga role. Roles na ayoko ng paulit-ulit kasi sa tinagal ko na rin, marami na rin akong roles na paulit-ulit na lang!”
She explained that her approach to acting has shifted over time, with a focus on finding roles that reignite her passion for the craft.
“Kasi pag paulit-ulit, medyo ‘Ha?’ May tamad factor na yon. Kasi, ‘Ito na naman?’ But this time, parang naghanap lang ako ng ‘Ano kaya yung klase ng pelikula that will challenge me at this point in time.'”
Rising to the Challenge in ‘Uninvited’
Ate V. found such a challenge in her upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry, Uninvited. She shared how the project pushed her to new limits, both emotionally and physically.
“I ‘think’ na-challenge ako because there was one time that I was shooting na nag-140/90 ang BP [blood pressure] ko, so na-challenge ako!”
Despite her extensive experience, the role offered her an opportunity to explore new depths in her craft.
“So I think, kung meron man akong na-challenge akong role again, palagay ko itong coming na ‘Uninvited’. Baka I would like to show something na parang hindi ko pa nagawa noong mga nakaraan.”
Honoring a National Treasure
As Ate V. continues to make her mark in the industry, her contributions to Philippine cinema have not gone unnoticed. An ongoing campaign advocates for her nomination as a National Artist, the highest honor awarded to Filipinos who have significantly contributed to the development of the arts, including film and broadcast.
Vilma Santos-Recto’s legacy as an actress, a public servant, and a cultural icon remains an enduring inspiration for both her peers and future generations. Whether through her classic films or her current endeavors, she proves that the pursuit of meaningful work and creative growth knows no bounds.
TATAK MNL 
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