Ate Vi can’t sleep without the TV on
CHITO Roño and Vilma Santos
It boggles the mind that it’s been 50 years since Vilma Santos first joined show biz because her charisma has not waned at all.
The adulation she enjoys would give matinee idols a run for their money. In celebration of her golden anniversary, ABS-CBN and Star Cinema present a first in the Star for All Seasons’ illustrious career—a suspense-horror movie, “The Healing,” which opens on Wednesday.
On a personal note, I’m glad that Ate Vi is still within my reach even if she’s already way up there. Her genuine kindness is like a balm that could heal the ills of this crazy show biz industry.
Here’s my one-on-one interview with the one and only Ate Vi:
Do you believe in faith healers? Have you had any experience with them?
Yes, why not? After medical treatment, there’s no harm in going to a faith healer for a second opinion. In 1988, I was hospitalized for three weeks. Various tests were normal except irregular bowel movement. So I sought the help of a faith healer. He prayed for me and placed a white piece of paper on my tummy. He massaged my toes. I was was able to go back to work.
Is it harder to do drama or suspense/horror? What’s the difference in terms of acting?
Both are difficult, but I’m more used to doing drama. Since “The Healing” is my first time to do a suspense-horror film, I discovered that it entails more movement. In drama, even without dialogue I can let my eyes do the talking.
What’s more important, winning an award or box-office success?
Both are equally important. Winning an award is definitely prestigious, while having a box-office hit is the foundation of an actor’s career. It ensures one’s longevity in the biz.
Tell us about the TV special for your 50th anniversary in show biz.
They wanted a month-long celebration for my golden anniversary, but my schedule as a public servant won’t allow it, so it will just be a one-night TV special. A coffee table book is also in the planning stage.
What’s your greatest achievement?
Being a wife for 19 years, a mother of two boys for 31 years, and staying in show biz for five decades.
What’s left on your bucket list?
None. I go by the principle that tomorrow is another day. Yesterday is history, today is a blessing and tomorrow is a mystery. So, I’d rather not make plans. It’s better to go with the flow.
If you could turn back the hands of time, what chapter of your life would you like to go back to, and why?
All my experiences, whether good or bad, made me a better person. So I can’t pinpoint any particular time I would like to relive. I always make it a point to enjoy where I am and make the most of every moment.
What’s the hardest part of being Vilma Santos?
I have no privacy.
What’s something that people don’t know about you?
That I am just like them. I also eat tuyo (dried fish).
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I am a TV freak. When the TV is on, I can go into deep slumber. Otherwise, I easily get roused from sleep.
How has politics changed you?
It has made me responsible and aware of life’s realities.
What makes your relationship with Ralph Recto work?
No competition between us. We are very supportive of each other’s growth.
What’s your advice to aspiring actors?
Love and respect your career, and it will love and respect you back.
What lessons have you learned from life and love?
Just be yourself. Learn from your mistakes. Master the art of acceptance. Keep moving forward.
What’s the naughtiest thing you’ve done?
Tell white lies.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve done for love?
I made my world revolve around my lover during my younger days, so I became unprofessional in my career.
What’s your most touching moment with Luis and Christian?
Whenever we have our heart-to-heart talks. We open up like barkadas do. I become less of a mother and more of a friend.
How would you like to be remembered?
As you like it.
