1986: THE YEAR OF THE 'PENE' MOVIES

Left- Sabik, Kasalanan Ba? (1986)- Stars George Estregan, Daria Ramirez, Tani Cinco, Maureen Mauricio, Gino Antonio and Joy Sumilang/ Directed by Lito De Guzman

Right- Sumagad sa Laman Tumagos sa Buto (1986)- Stars Cristina Crisol, Maureen Mauricio, Jenny Varga and Rowena Ruiz/ with Ramon Zamora, George Estregan, Charlie Davao/ Directed by Henry Rufino

It seems that public unrests, political turmoil and uncertainties may also contributed to the proliferation and sudden influx of sex-oriented films as what we witnessed during the ‘Bomba era’ in the 70s and the ‘Bold era’ in the 80s.

‘Bomba’ movies were in during the time before Martial Law, when student activism and communist insurgency were at its peak. It holds true in the 80s, during the time of the newly installed revolutionary government of President Cory Aquino, when we saw the widespread flooding of bold or even so-called ‘pene’ movies. The bold movies trend was already on the upswing even in 1984 and 85 after the assassination of opposition leader Benigno Aquino. These are some of my personal observations.

In 1986, a total of close to 30 bold movies were produced and shown. Most of these bold movies were showing not only the skins but the actual sex act which they termed as ‘pene’ short for penetration. Producers insisted that it’s an art, but these lame excuses were dumb ridiculous. Those movies were short of being called soft porn and producers were laughing their hearts out going to the banks. These bold stars ruled but their reigns were brief and short. Most of them appeared in a couple of movies only and after that sidelined and vanished--- the victims of sexual exploitation.

Except for Ana Marie Gutierrez, Maria Isabel Lopez, Sarsi Emmanuel, and Jackyn Jose, the new set of bold stars that figured prominently in 1986 were Cristina Crisol, Maureen Mauricio, Joy Sumilang, Jenny Varga, Rowena Ruiz, Barbara Benitez, Didith Romero, Lala Montelibano, Kristal Kristobal, Olivia Ortiz, Lolita Lamar, Scarlet Suarez, Vida Verde, Farrah Floro, Maria Montes, Stella Suarez, Jr., Paola Berenguer, Tanya Gomez, Lola, Lampel Cojuangco…George Estregan, Gino Antonio, Tani Cinco, Lito Gruet, Greggy Liwag, Dick Israel, Mark Joseph, Bobby Benitez…

Read: Jojo DeVera's Sabik-Kasalanan Ba?: The Art of Penekula

Left- Donselya (1986)- Stars Cristina Crisol, Zandro Zamora, Perla Bautista, Val Iglesia/ Introducing Lolita Lamar/ Directed by Arsenio 'Boots' Bautista

Right- Di Maghilom ang Sugat (1986)- Stars Anna Marie Gutierrez, Cristina Crisol, Maureen Mauricio and Gino Antonio/ Directed by W. Pascual

Left- Sensual (1986)- Stars Charito Solis, Chanda Romero, Lito Gruet and Barbra Benitez/ Directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya

Right- Halik sa Pisngi ng Langit (1986)- Stars Ronaldo Valdez, Greggy Liwag, Mark Joseph and Lala Montelibano/ Introducing Didith Romero/ Directed by Efren c. Pinon

Left- Stop: Abortion (1986)- Stars Greggy Liwag, Mishelle Zobel, Didith Romero, Delia Razon, Anthony East and Lampel Cojuangco/ Directed by Leonardo Q. Belen

Right- Alindog (1986)- Stars Greggy Liwag, Avon Cortez, Dick Israel,Ben Morro, Odette Khan, Bobby Benitez and Lampel Cojuangco/ Directed by Kaka

Left- Tukso sa Mundo (1986)- Stars Daniel Fernando, Tani Cinco, Mishelle Zobel, Didith Romero and Maureen Mauricio/ Directed by Eduardo Palmos

Right- Nagaapoy na Gabi (1986)- Stars Maureen Mauricio, Zandro Zamora, Nick Romano, Scarlet Suarez, Eddie del Mar, Jr., Lito Anzures and Kristal Kristobal / Directed by Tito Sanchez

Left- Dingding Lang ang Pagitan (1986)- Stars Maria Isabel Lopez, Orestes Ojeda, Albert Eugenio and Olivia Ortiz/ Directed by Ruben S. Abalos

Right- Nagaapoy na Gabi (1986)- Stars George Estregan, Albert Eugenio, Mark Joseph, Tony Santos, Jr., Joy Sumilang, Scarlet Suarez and Olivia Ortiz/ Directed by Lito de Guzman

Left- Ang Walang Malay (1986)- Stars Vida Verde, George Estregan, Robert Lee, Ada Alberto/ Introducing Farrah Floro/ Directed by Ronnie San Juan

Right- Desperada (1986)- Stars Vida Verde, Greggy Liwag, Elsa Enrile, George Estrgan, Dick Israel, Amanda Amores, Mark Joseph / Directed by Francis Posadas

Left- Unfaithful Wife (1986)- Stars Michael de Mesa, Joel Torre and Anna Marie Gutierrez/ Directed byPeque Gallaga

Right- Takaw Tukso (1986)- Stars Anna Marie Gutierrez, Gino Antonio, Julio Diaz and Jaclyn Jose / Directed by W. Pascual

Left- Private Show (1986)- Stars Jaclyn Jose, Gino Antonio and Leopoldo Salcedo/ Directed by Sixto Kayko (aka- Chito Rono)

Right- Hapdi (1986)- Stars Ernie Garcia, Olivia Ortiz, Gino Antonio, Maureen Mauricio and Maria Montes/ with Raoul Aragonn, Robert Talabis, Nick Lizaso, Robert talby / Directed by Joey del Rosario

Left- Mga Nakaw na Sandali (1986)- Stars Maria Isabel Lopez, Al Tantay, Liz Alindogan, Ronaldo Valdez and Stela Suarez, Jr./ Directed by Nilo Saez

Right- Araaayyyy!!! (1986)- Stars Patrick dela Rosa, Janice Jurado/ Introducing Paola Berenguer / Directed by Cezar Abella

Paraisong Gubat (1986)- Stars Cristina Crisol, Azenith Briones, Josephine Manuel, Lito Gruet and Tanya Gomez/ Directed by Tito Sanchez



Materyales Fuertes (1986)- Stars Myrna Castillo, Mishelle Zobel and Lola/ with George Estregan, Dick Israel, Mark Joseph, Bobby Benitez & Toots Papa/ Directed by Tata Esteban



Kiri (1986)- Stars George Estregan, Patrick dela Rosa, Mark Joseph, Dick Israel and Lampel Cojuangco/ Directed by Francis 'Jun' Posadas

Left- Magkayakap sa Magdamag (1986)- Stars Alona Alegre, Olivia Ortiz and Anna Marie Gutierrez/ with Al Tantay, George Estregan, Orestes Ojeda, Emil Sandoval/ Directed by Nilo Saez

Right- Clarizza (1986)- Stars Luis Gonzales, Liza Lorena, Lito Pimentel and Sarsi Emmanuelle/ with Lucita Soriano, Roxan Recto, Gil GuerreroDirected by CBT & RDG

Huwag Pamarisan: Kulasisi (1986)- Stars Maria Isabel Lopez and Anna Marie Gutierrez/ with Raoul aragonn, Jun Santiago, Tani Cinco, Emil Sandoval/ Directed by Nilo Saez

Left- Silip (1986)- Stars Maria Isabel Lopez and Sarsi Emmanuel/ Directed by Elwood Perez

Right- Kapirasong Dangal (1986)- Stars Maria Isabel Lopez, Raoul Aragonn, Dick Israel, Tani Cinco, Gino Antonio, Emily Loren, Mina Mirasol, Elsa Enrile, Mishelle Zobel and Dante Rivero/ Directed by Nilo Saez

"KING OF POP" MICHAEL JACKSON IS DEAD, 50

“He was perhaps the most exciting performer of his generation, known for his backward-gliding moonwalk, his feverish, crotch-grabbing dance moves and his high-pitched singing, punctuated with squeals and titters.”

Michael Jackson, the “King of Pop” who once moonwalked above the music world, died as he prepared for a comeback bid to vanquish nightmare years of sexual scandal and financial calamity. He was 50. Jackson died Thursday at UCLA Medical Center after being stricken at his rented home in Holmby Hills. Paramedics tried to resuscitate him at his home for nearly three-quarters of an hour, and then rushed him to the hospital, where doctors continued to work on him. “It is believed he suffered cardiac arrest in his home. However, the cause of his death is unknown until results of the autopsy are known, “ his brother Jermaine said. Police said they were investigating, standard procedure in high-profile cases.

Jackson’s death brought a tragic end to a long, bizarre, sometimes farcical decline from his peak in the 1980s, when he was popular music’s all-around performer, a uniter of black and white music who shattered the race barrier on MTV, dominated the charts and dazzled even more on stage. His 1982 album, ‘Thriller’ ---which included the blockbuster hits Beat It, Billie Jean and Thriller--- is the best selling album of all time, with an estimated 50 million copies sold worldwide.

At the time of his death, Jackson was rehearsing hard for what was to be his greatest comeback. He was scheduled for an unprecedented 50 shows at a London arena, with the first set for July 13. (Lynn Elber)

Pop icon Michael Jackson and Superstar Nora Aunor graced the cover of Kislap Magazine in 1976 during MJ's first visit to the Philippines (image courtesy of Nora Aunor Yahoo Group) and so with Star For All Seasons Vilma Santos (image courtesy of Chuvaness).

MGA PELIKULANG AGIMAT NI RAMON REVILLA, SR.

ABS-CBN Network is set to offer another action-adventure series as they tied up with the Revilla family and Imus Productions for remaking the movies of legendary Ramon Revilla Sr. to be entitled “Agimat” (Ang Mga Alamat ni Ramon Revilla). Four promising actors were given a chance to reprise the well-known characters of Revilla Sr. Gerald Anderson will be portraying Tiagong Akyat in “Hulihin si Tiagong Akyat.” Jake Cuenca, on the other hand, will reprise the character “Elias Paniki.” Coco Martin plays the role of a lizard in “Agimat ni Tonyong Bayawak.” And last but definitely not the least - from the Revilla clan – is Jolo Revilla who will play “Pepeng Agimat.” According to Andeng, daughter of Revilla Sr., the idea of remaking the films of her father was presented to them by the network about two years ago.

The Revilla family and ABS-CBN also agreed that there should be a Revilla to be included in the film to continue the legacy of the renowned clan. “It was part of the agreement that we want a member of the family to portray one of the characters just top preserve the legacy of the senior… Sabi ko siguro ang bida natin si Jolo and ABS-CBN said ‘oo naman’ kasi para hindi mahiwalay from three generations from my dad to kuya Bong and to Jolo,” Andeng explained.

“Agimat” will circle in the story of four men whose lives have been altered by a diwata or fairy as she gives them special powers in the form of an agimat. (Source-SunStar Manila/ June 22, 2009)

Nardong Putik (1972)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Gloria Romero, Alona Alegre, Rosemarie Gil, Robert Jaworski, Michael Murray, Manolo Robles and Max Alvarado/ Directed by Tony Cayado

When Ramon Revilla, Sr., a popular actor of the 50s, made Nardong Putik, his comeback movie in 1972, he scored big in the tills, smashing all existing box-office records that time. It’s a film on a notorious criminal whose amulet or anting-anting or agimat made him invincible and protected him from bullets. His next two movies, Pepeng Agimat and Hulihin si Tiagong Akyat, also did well in the box-office which starred him also with an agimat. Besides being Nardong Putik, Pepeng Agimat and Tiagong Akyat, he was also known as Kumander Agimat, Tonyong Bayawak, Kapitan Inggo, Pepeng Kuryente, Elias Paniki and Joaquin Burdado, all characters wielding agimats with varying and incredible powers.

Pepeng Agimat (1973)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Gloria Romero, Rosemarie Gil, Alona Alegre, Aurora Salve, Rodolfo 'Boy' Garcia, Michael Murray and Robert Jaworski/ with Bella Flores, Rosa Mia, Etang Discher/ Directed by Tony Cayado

Hulihin si... Tiagong Akyat-(1973)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Liza Lorena, Robert Jaworski, Aurora Salve, Van de Leon and Max Alvarado/ with Michael Murray, Rodolfo 'Boy' Garcia, Aurora Ortiz/ Directed by Armando A. Herrera

Left- Kumander Agimat (1975)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Liza Lorena, Johanna Raunio, John Ericson, Vic Silayan, Vic Diaz/ Directed by Cesar 'Chat' Gallardo

Right- Tonyong Bayawak (1980)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Boots Anson-Roa, Julie Ann Fortich, Celia Rodriguez, Rosemarie Gil, Ruby Ana, Andrea Bautista, Princess Bautista/ with Dante Varona, Paquito Diaz, Rodolfo 'Boy' Garcia and Max Alvarado / Directed by Jose Yandoc

Lumaban Ka, Satanas (1983)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Elizabeth Oropesa, George Estregan, Paquito Diaz, Cecile Castillo and Charlie Davao/ Directed by Efren C. Pinon



Nardong Putik- Version II (1984)- Stars Ramon Revilla,Julie Ann Fortich, Marilou Bendigo, Pia Moran/ with Leopoldo Salcedo, Charlie Davao, George Estrgan, Paquito Diaz, Max Alvarado, Philip Gamboa, Nick Romano, Arnold Mendoza, Rodolfo 'Boy' Garcia, Val Iglesia and Rudy Fernandez (in a Special Role)/ Directed by Jose Yandoc



Kapita Inggo (1984)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Marissa Delgado, Susan Valdes, Marissa Del Mar/with George Estregan, Conrad Poe, Philip gamboa, Paquito Diaz, Max Alvarado, Arnold Mendoza/ Directed by Jose Yandoc

Joaquin Burdado (1988)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Tanya Gomez, Janice Jurado, Deborah Sun, Paquito Diaz, Rocco Montalban, Renato del Prado/ Featuring Elvis Gutierrez/ Directed by Carlos J. Caparas

Left- Pepeng Kuryente (1988)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Bong Revilla, Dante Rivero, Ramon Zamora, Johnny Delgado, Marissa Delgado/ Directed by Jose Yandoc

Right- Ang Mahiwagang Daigdig ni Elias Paniki (1989)- Stars Ramon Revilla, Maria Isabel Lopez, Atong Redillas, Tina Godinez, Brylle Mondejar/ Directed by Carlos J. Caparas

"DARNA" ON PRIMETIME TV Circa 60s

Remember Channel 5's Sinagtala and Bahaghari! I recalled seeing these Darna movies in the 60s in these two popular TV programs. The 1951 original Darna movie starring Rosario del Rosario shown in Sinagtala and Darna at ang Impakta (1963) in Bahaghari, both on primetime TV, ABC Channel 5.

Darna (1951)- Sinagtala/ Channel 5/ 1965; Darna at ang Impakta (1963)- Bahaghari/ Channel 5/ 1966

THE SORRY STATE OF PHILIPPINE MOVIES

Equipped with the latest technology in film processing and recording, Magnatech Omni once stood proudly as one of the best and reliable post-production company in the 80s servicing major movie studios and film outfits in the country. The place, located at the corner of Sct. Borromeo and Mother Ignacia ave. in Quezon City, was always teeming and brimming with all kinds of showbiz people- from producers, directors, actors/actresses, production staff, technicians, stuntmen, bit players, even fans, onlookers. That’s how active, vigorous and full of life the Philippine movie industry was.

This is what's left of Magnatech--- an abandoned and ruined structure, once a flourishing and thriving establishment and a meeting place of who's who in Philippine movies.

THE ART OF ALEX NIÑO .

Alex Niño, an accomplished Filipino comic book artist, also worked, for a time, with Action King Fernando Poe, Jr., doing some of FPJ's movie poster ads and layouts. Above,"Tatak ng Alipin" (1975)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Tina Revilla, Leila Hermosa, Josephine Garcia and Rosemarie Gil/ with Paquito Diaz & Leopoldo Salcedo/ Directed by Armando Herrera/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño

Alex Niño/ 1964/ (Source- Gerry Alanguilan's The Philippine Comics Art Museum)

In 1965, Alex got a crack at novels when the late Clodualdo del Mundo commissioned him to illustrate the novel Kilabot ng Persia for Pilipino Komiks. The novel suited Alex's style perfectly. More novels followed, almost all of them in the fantasy-horror genre: Dinoceras by Marcelo B. Isidro, Maligno by Amado S. Castrillo (Both for Redondo Komix), Tsangga Rangga for Mars Ravelo (Espesyal), Mga Matang Nagliliyab again for Isidro (Alcala Komix).

Santo Domingo- Story by Pablo S. Gomez/ Drawn by Alex Niño / 1972/ (Source- Randy Valiente's Malikhaing Komiks)

In 1966, Alex got the chance to write and illustrate his own comics-novel Gruaga, serialized in Pioneer Komiks. It enabled Alex to elaborate and experiment and produce stunning visual effects that were to be his trademark. He would revisit the world of Gruaga many times later in his career, most notably "The Dark Suns of Gruaga" Porfolio (1978).

Alex had developed a calligraphic style which gave his artworks a rhythmic and flowing quality. Even when he illustrated several novels by Pablo S. Gomez for the PSG Publications- novels in the drama genre which requires the usual, straightforward style- Alex was able to put to use the unique rendering style and achieve for each novel the individuality which he intended.

The prevailing drama trend in Philippine komiks-magazines however, denied Alex better public acceptance of his works. At the first opportunity, he grabbed the chance to illustrate for American comic books. He accepted commissions from such US Publishers as DC, Gold Key, Marvel, Educational Classics and Peterson. He pencilled the first Black Orchid story for DC and inked some of the Tarzan Sunday strips of the King Features Syndicate.

Among the numerous horror-mystery works for DC, outstanding were Captain Fear, Korak and Space Voyagers. For Marvel, he worked on Conan, Man-Gods, and the memorable (and controversial) story, Repent, Harlequin, Said the Tick Tock

In and out of comics since the early '90s, Nino last worked on the single-issue God the Dyslexic Dog in 2004. Four years later, Nino returned last September in a three-part miniseries Dead Ahead by Image Comics.

References:
A History of Komiks of the Philippines/ 1985
Comic Book Artist Magazine Vol.2 #4, 2004
Philippine Comics Art Museum

Thriller/DC Comics/ 1984

The Omega Men/DC Comics/ 1984

Dead Ahead (three-part miniseries)/ Image/ 2008-09

While Tony de Zuniga did most of FPJ movie poster ads and layouts in the 6os, it was Alex Niño’s turn in the 70s. Before working full-time abroad, Niño did several film projects with the Da King starting with Santo Domingo in 1972 up to Alakdang Gubat in 1976. Look closely to these ads as compared to the ones we're seeing today. These ads by Niño were executed beautifully. Thanks to FPJ for employing the services of komiks artists like de Zuniga and Niño. These poster ads were well-preserved and I seen it displayed years ago at FPJ studios.

Santo Domingo (1972)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Boots Anson-Roa, Alona Alegre, Paquito Diaz and Max Alvarado/ with Lito ANzures, Bruno Punazalan, Vic Varrion & Frankie Navaja,Jr. / Directed by Celso Ad. Castillo/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño

Left- Sto. Cristo (1973)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Jeanne Young, Eddie Garcia, Paquito Diaz, Romy Diaz, Jose Ronulo, Lito Anzures, Victor Bravo and Max Alvarado/ Directed by Armando Herrera/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño

Right- Dugo ng Bayan (1973)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Alona Alegre, Aurora Salve, Paquito Diaz, Jose Romulo, Vic Diaz, Dencio Padilla, Nello Nayo and Zernan Manahan/ Directed by Armando Herrera/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño

Left- Ang Pangalan: Mediavillo (1974)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Evangeline Pascual, Dencio Padilla, Vic Varrion, Philip Coo, Lorna Tolentino, Nello Nayo, Ely Roque/ Directed by Armando Herrera/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño

Right- Alupihang Dagat (1975)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Elizabeth Oropesa, Paquito Diaz, Vic Diaz, Dencio Padilla, Mary Walter, Vic Varrion and Max Alvarado/ Directed by Ronwaldo Reyes/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño

Alakdang Gubat (1976)- Stars Fernando Poe, Jr., Marianne dela Riva, Paquito Diaz, Perla Bautista, Dencio Padilla, Jose Romulo/ Directed by Armando Herrera/ Movie poster ad by Alex Niño
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"SUWAPANG" - Kuwentong Tapos
Katha't Guhit ni Alex Niño
United Komiks/ 1970

(click images to enlarge)

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"DAKILANG ARBULARYO" - Kuwentong Tapos
Sinulat ni Santi Flor
Guhit ni Alex Niño
Kidlat Komiks/ 1971
(click images to enlarge)

RENE REQUIESTAS: A COMIC SENSATION

Ganda Babae Ganda Lalake (1990) and Cheeta-Eh Ganda Lalake (1991) made Rene Requiestas a household name and installed him the Box-Office King succeeding his mentor, Joey de Leon.

Coming from a poor family, comedian Rene Requiestas started his movie career as an extra, playing houseboy to some of Ishmael Bernal’s flicks (i.e. Salawahan, Pabling) with a take-home pay of P50 a day. He also tried theater and one of the mainstays in a post-EDSA political TV satire, Sic O’clock News with Jaime Fabregas. Rene made an easy transition to the movies appearing in minor and supporting roles in Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon movies. After a series of movies with Joey de Leon, playing sidekick as Chee-ta-eh in three Starzan movies, as Tonton in two Long Ranger and Tonton movies, as James in Elvis and James, among others, he was launched in his first solo picture, Ganda Babae, Ganda Lalake, a box office success. Rene’s almost impeccable and perfect comedic timing, natural funny disposition, humorous delivery, coupled with crazy hairstyle and that toothless grin made him the toast of Philippine movies and Box-office star in the early 90s. He was at his best with Kris Aquino in Pido/Dida series.

Success however spoiled Rene--- he lived extravagantly and in style, squandering his earnings. He became sickly at the latter part of his life and died almost penniless in the mid-90s.

Left- Barbie: Maid in the Philippines (1989)- Stars Joey de Leon, Jacquie Aquino, Armida Siguon-Reyna, Jaime Fabregas and Rene Requiestas/ with Bamba, RR Herrera & Ten-Ten Munoz/ Directed by Tony Y. Reyes

Right- Samson & Goliath (1990)- Stars Vic Sotto and Rene Requiestas/ with Panchito, Nova Villa, Dely Atay-Atayan, Dencio Padilla, Anne Villegas, Ritchie D' Horsie/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Left- Starzan: Shouting Star of the Jungle (1989)- Stars Joey de Leon, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Panchito, Cynthia Patag, Rene Requiestas and Kristina Paner & Cris Villanueva/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Right- Starzan II: The Coming of the Star Son (1989)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas and Zsa Zsa Padilla/ with Panchito, Ruel Vernal, Bomber Moran, Ruben Rustia, Yoyong Martirez/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Left- Starzan III: The Jungle Triangle (1990)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas, Panchito, Noel 'Ungga' Ayala / Directed by Tony Reyes

Right- Ganda Babae Ganda Lalake (1990)- Stars Rene Requiestas and Maricel Laxa, Panchito, Jigo Garcia and Manilyn Reynes/ with Paquito Diaz, Ruben Rustia, Vangie Labalan, Nanding Fernandez/ Special participation of Vic Sotto
and Joey de Leon/ Directed by Tony Y. Reyes

Left- Elvis and James (1989)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas and Maricel Laxa/ with Panchito/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Right- Elvis and James 2 (1990)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas and Regine Velasquez/ with Vangie Labalan, Mely Tagasa & Lou Veloso/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Left- Long Ranger & Tonton: The Shooting Stars of the West (1989)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas and Maricel Laxa/ with Panchito, Ruel Vernal, Teroy de Guzman, Bomber Moran, Noel 'Ungga' Ayala/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Right- The Return of Long Ranger & Tonton: How the West was Wrong (1990)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas, Rina Reyes & Maritoni Fernandez/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Left- Small Meduim Large (1990)- Stars Jimmy Santos, Rene Requiestas, Noel 'Ungga' Ayala, Panchito/ Directed by Joey de Leon & Tony Y. Reyes

Right- Prinsipe Abante at ang Lihim ng Ibong Adarna (1990)- Stars Rene Requiestas, Monica Herrera, Toni Aracama, Paquito Diaz, Joaquin Fajardo, Ruben Rustia, Orestes Ojeda, Dexter Doria, Ann Villegas/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Michael & Madonna (1990)- Stars Rene Requiestas and Manilyn Reynes, Ogie Alcasid, Monica Herrera & Nova Villa/ Directed by Tony Reyes

Pido Dida (1990)- Stars Rene Requiestas and Kris Aquino/with Nova Villa, Alicia Alonzo, Dexter Doria, Ann Villegas, Vangie labalan, Ruben Rustia, Romeo Rivera

Directed by Tony Reyes

Pido Dida 2: Kasal Na (1991)- Stars Rene Requiestas and Kris Aquino/ with Nova Villa, Paquito Diaz, Marissa Delgado, Orestes Ojeda / Directed by Tony Reyes

Pido Dida 3: May kambal Na (1991)- Stars Rene Requiestas and Kris Aquino/
Directed by Tony Reyes

Left- Little & Big Weapon (1990)- Stars Joey de Leon and Rene Requiestas/ Directed by Tony Y. Reyes

Right- Luv Ko, Si Ma'am (1991)- Stars Rene Requiestas, Alice Dixson, Manilyn Reybes, Janno Gibbs / Directed by Tony Reyes

Left- Alyas Batman en Robin (1991)- Stars Joey de Leon, Rene Requiestas, Panchito, Keempee de Leon, Vina Morales and Dawn Zulueta/ Directed by Tony Y. Reyes

Right- Oh my God... Anak ni Janice! (1991)- Stars Janice de Belen, Janno Gibbs and Rene Requiestas/ with Carmina Villaroel, Isabel Granada, Robert Ortega, Smokey Manaloto and Mahal/ Directed by Mike Relon Makiling

Takbo, Talon, Tili (1992)- Stars Rene Requestas, Romnick Sarmenta, Sheryl Cruz, Rita Avila, Rey 'PJ' Abellana, Rina Reyes, Raymond Bagatsing, Richard and Raymond Gutierrez/ Directed by Efren Jarlego

Left- First Time... Like a Virgin (1992)- Stars Rene Requiestas, Jeffrey Santos, Aljon Jimenez, Wowie Cruz, Romano Vasquez/ with Jackie Forster, Shirley Fuentes, Sunshine Cruz, Karla Estrada/ Directed by Mauro Gia Samonte

Right- Probinsyanong Mandurukot (1993)- Stars Rene Requiestas, Miguel Rodriguez, Efren Reyes Jr., Paquito Diaz, Aiza Seguerra and Ruffa Gutierrez/ Directed by Efren Jarlego

APENG DALDAL: A PRODUCT ENDORSER

Plasti/pas ad---circa 60s

Funnyman Apeng Daldal, one of my favorite comedians in the 60s to 80s, posed for an ad for medicated plaster of Johnson & Johnson in the 60s. Artist-friend Rod Samonte, then art director of Ace-Compton Advertising, was the brain behind this ad, from concept, design to final artwork. He also did the posing for Apeng. "He's really funny in real life" writes Rod.

Rod, thanks for the wonderful and funny ad!

JOSE RIZAL'S "NOLI ME TANGERE" (1961): ISANG DAKILANG KASAYSAYAN

Today, we celebrate the 148th birth anniversary of our national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

Excerpt from Manila Bulletin Today/ Editorial---
His works impressed upon the colonial masters the inevitable operation of historical lessons. “No rule by one country over another lasts forever,” he declared in his essay “The Philippines A Century Hence.” His Noli Me Tangere awakened his countrymen from their lethargy that if they did nothing against their oppression, they would remain slaves forever. His El Filibusterismo warned the colonial masters that the Filipino people would violently separate their country from Spain if nothing was done to redress the people’s sufferings. His La Liga Filipina suggested the means to avoid such violent separation. The colonial masters were deaf to his warnings. The rest is history.

June 19, 1861, is a great day that the Filipino people should proudly celebrate. This date represents the first pulse of a great life, the dawn of a grand era, and the first spark that lighted freedom for the downtrodden Filipinos.

Our observance of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s 148th Birth Anniversary demonstrates our respect and admiration for him as well as our awareness of the lessons he bequeathed to us. A people who honor and remember their heroes are a people who would never consent to be enslaved by others.
(Source- Manila Bulletin)

Jose Rizal's Noli Me Tangere was adapted to the big screen with National Artist for Film Gerardo 'Gerry' de Leon at the helm. The cast includes, among others, Eduardo 'Eddie' Del Mar as Crisostomo Ibarra, Edita Vital as Maria Clara, Oscar Keesee as Father Damaso, Johnny Monteiro as Father Salvi, Lina Carino as Sisa and Leopoldo Salcedo as Elias. In the supporting roles were Teody Belarmino, Ruben Rustia, Robet Arevalo, Jose Garcia, Lito Anzures, Max Alvarado, Andres Centenera, Ramon D' Salva, etc.

The movie won the year's FAMAS Best Picture and Director.

Literary Song-Movie Magazine/ 1961
(click images to enlarge)

PINOY MOVIE SPOOFS # 30: "LITTLE & BIG WEAPON" (1990)

Little & Big Weapon (1990)- Stars Joey de Leon and Rene Requiestas/ Directed by Tony Reyes

PINOY MOVIE SPOOFS # 29: "TANGGA AND CHOS" (1990)

Tangga & Chos (1990)- Stars Joey de Leon & Jon Santos/ with Eddie Garcia, Keempee de Leon, MaitaSoriano, Beverly Vergel/ Directed by Tony Reyez

AD OF THE 60s: "UVA"

Remember Uva? It's luscious as the ad says and I used to drink a lot of this during my grade school days.

UVA ad/ Circa 60s

SIGN OF THE TIMES # 7: "ATARI" Circa 1981

A 1981 full page newspaper ad announcing the arrival of Atari in the Philippines, then the number one home computer system in the United States. I still have my Atari 2600, still intact, with joysticks and paddle, in good playable condition and complete with games like Pacman, Space Invaders, Super Breakout and Moon Patrol.

"WANDER WOMAN SI AKO!"

Remember Maria Teresa Carlson? She was a big star in the 8os and a mainstay in the popular TV sitcom "Chicks to Chicks." She was best remembered for her witty dialogues of "si ikaw, si ako..." which eventually earned her starring roles in some Tagalog movie spoofs--- "Wander Woman si Ako" and "Si Ako at ang Tres Moskiteros."

In 2001, Ms Carlson, jumped to her death from the 23rd floor of the Platinum 2000 condo in Greenhills. She was a victim of domestic violence.

"Wander Woman si Ako" (1980)- Stars Maria Teresa Carlson/
Directed by Pablo Santiago

"Si Ako at ang Tres Moskiteros" (1982)- Stars Tito, Vic & Joey and Maria Teresa Carlson/ with Nova Villa & Romy Diaz/ Directed by Bobby Santiago

1980: THE NOTORIOUS "CELESTE GANG"

Philippines Daily Express/ November 8, 1980
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In the late 1980, a group of young notorious crooks known as the “Celeste Gang” was responsible for the numerous armed holdups and violent incidents in Metro Manila. The initial reports described the suspects as rich-looking young men, between ages 20 to 24 and using a Colt Celeste car as their getaway vehicle.

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At least 17 holdup, carnapping and gun snatching incidents in Metro Manila believed pulled by this group with the use of illegally-acquired guns. A Northern Police District official initially attributed to the gang nine cases in Quezon City including the killing of a 30-year old guard of Shakey’s Inn on West Avenue.

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The case was considered solved with the arrest of their leader, Mortimer Marcelo y Purugunan, a self-confessed gangleader, who was captured Tuesday, November 25 in Quezon City by NPD team led by Lt. Dalanon. Marcelo, a former jockey and resident of Makati, admitted participation in most of the violent incidents.

A movie was made in 1985 with the young action star Ramon ‘Bong’ Revilla, Jr. in the lead role.

Celeste Gang (1985)- Stars Ramon 'Bong' Revilla, Jr., Lani Mercado, Tanya Gomez, Elsa Agana, George Estregan, Conrad Poe, Rez Cortez, Renato del Prado, Ruel Vernal/ Directed by Nilo Saez

THE CONTROVERSIAL ROSANNA ROCES: THE TOP SEX GODDESS OF THE NINETIES (Circa 1994- 2001)

Before she entered the world of showbiz, Rosanna Roces was once a star dancer at the upscale girlie joint Pegasus and a GRO (Guest Relation Officer) in Brunei. She first appeared onscreen in a secondary role in Celso Ad Castillo’s Comfort Women (A Cry for Justice) in 1994 under the screen name of Ana Maceda. Her first lead role came not too long afterwards in Machete 2 (1994). Soon, sex-oriented movies followed: Kirot 2 (1995), the controversial movie and title, Patikim ng Pinya (1995), Nang Mamulat si Eba (1996), among others. With a good, luscious mestiza looks, attractive body, her naughty quips in interviews and some bold and daring career moves made her a “hot copy,” and eventually reigned for some time as the country’s unchallenged “Sex Bomb” of the local screen.

Rosanna erased any nagging doubt in most of peoples’ mind as to her thespic abilities when she scaled new acting heights in Ligaya ang Itawag Mo sa Akin (1997). With that single performance, an ACTRESS was born, hosannas poured forth like incense from the critics, and Rosanna indeed became the one to watch among the denizens of the local screen’s overcrowded meatmarket. Success begets success, and Ligaya… was followed by her other noteworthy acting triumphs in such sex-laden vehicles as Mapusok (1997), Ang Lalaki sa Buhay ni Selya (1998), Curacha, Ang Babaing Walang Pahinga (1998) and La Vida Rosa (2001) which finally won her the Gawad Urian Best Actress award.
(Excerpt from Jessie B. Garcia article)

Left- Machete II (1994)- Stars Snooky Serna, Gardo Verzosa, Abby Viduya, Harvey Gomez and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Mauro Gia Samonte

Right- Di Mapigil ang Init (1995)- Stars Jestoni Alarcon, Miguel Rodriguez, Eddie Gutierrez and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Toto Natividad

Left- Mga Nagbabagang Labi (1996)- Stars Jestoni Alarcon, Daniel Fernando, Sheila Ysrael and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Victor Tanco

Right- Patikim ng Pinya (1996)- Stars Leandro Baldemor, Natasha Ledesma, Anton Bernardo and Rosanna Roces

Left- Yes Darling: Walang Matigas na Pulis...Part 2 (1996)- Stars Ramon 'Bong' Revilla, Jr., Lani Mercado and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Pepe Marcos

Right- Nang Mamulat si Eba, Part 2 (1997)- Stars Gina Pareno, Perla Bautista, Anton Bernardo, Franco Zobel, Deborah Carpio and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Rico Mambo

Left- Matrikula (1997)- Stars Rosanna Roces and Jao Mapa/ Directed by Romy Suzara

Right- Ligaya ang Itawag Mo sa Akin (1997)- Stars John Arcilla, Chanda Romero, Isabel Granada, Pen Medina, Eva Darren, Armida Siguon-Reyna, Myrna Castillo and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Carlos Siguon-Reyna

Left-Pusakal (1997)- Stars Cesar Montano and Rosanna Roces/ with Dennis Roldan, Roy ALvarez, Dan Alvaro, Kimberly Diaz, Willie Revilame / Directed by Toto Natividad

Right- Curacha, Ang Babaeng Walang Pahinga (1998)- Stars Jacklyn Jose, Ara Mina, Ruby Moreno and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Chito Rono

Left- Carino Brutal (1998)- Stars Rosanna Roces, Daisy Reyes, Lucita Soriano/ Directed by Romy Suzara

Right- Babae sa Bintana (1998)- Stars Richard Gomez, Rosanna Roces, John Estrada, Johnny Manahan, Efren Reyes Jr. Raymond Keannu/ Directed by Chito Rono

Left- Ms. Kristina Moran, Ang Babaeng Palaban (1999)- Stars Eric Quizon, Raymond Bagatsing, Albert Martinez and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Enrico Quizon

Right- Ginto't Pilak (1999)- Stars Rudy Fernandez and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Romy Suzara

Left- Katawan (1999)- Stars Christopher de Leon, Bobby Andrews and Rosanna Roces/ Directed by Abbo de la Cruz

Right- La Vida Rosa (2001)- Stars Rosanna Roces and Diether Ocampo/ Directed byChito Rono

ACTOR ALFIE ANIDO: MATINEE IDOL DEAD AT 22

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Lovers Quarrel Preceded Suicide?
Philippines Daily Express/ January 1, 1982

Actor Alfie Anido had a quarrel with his girlfriend which led to a split-up a few hours before he died reportedly from a self-inflicted shot from a .38 caliber revolver inside his room at 31 June street, Bel-Air, Makati, at 1 a.m. yesterday (Dec.31), sources close to his girlfriend said. Ando had just celebrated his 22^nd birthday that evening. He was dead on arrival at a Makati hospital with a bullet wound in the head, sources said. Other sources close to the Anido family said the actor had some bullet wounds in the chest. This could not be confirmed, however, from the police.

According to a version from sources close to the victim’s girlfriend, the following are the events immediately before the actor’s death: Anido, his girlfriend and some of their friends earlier Wednesday (Dec.30) night, celebrated the actor’s birthday with a party at a rented house in Antipolo, Rizal. At about 10:30 p.m., Anido and his girlfriend quarreled and decided to return to Manila. Inside Anido’s car, the actor reportedly hit his girlfriend. When the actor dropped his girl at her place, her parting words were reportedly, “Thanks for hitting me.”

After arriving home at Bel-Air, Anido talked to his girlfriend by phone. During the conversation, the girlfriend reportedly decided to break up with him. A little later in the evening, the girlfriend decided to call up Anido. The actor’s mother answered and went to the actor’s room to call him to the phone. The next person to speak to the girlfriend was a sister of the actor, saying, “Alfie’s dead.” The girlfriend reportedly rushed from her house to Anido’s place.

Police said relatives did not report the incident to the police. Makati police chief Col. Ruperto Acle said they did not know about the incident until a Bel-Air security guard asked for assistance to control a crowd which had mobbed the St. Andrews chapel, where Anido’s remains were first taken. Acle said that a team of investigators had been sent to check reports. He said medico-legal cases (including suicides) must, under the law, be reported by the hospital or attending doctor to the police. Investigators were also directed to interrogate the parents and relatives of Anido to trace the fatal weapon allegedly used.

Acle said there is no way yet to conclude that it was a suicide. He said to determine the cause of Anido’s death, the remains should first be taken to the morgue of the National Bureau of Investigation for autopsy. “We should first determine whether there was foul play or not before making any conclusion,” Acle said.

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PC Bares Findings on Actor's Death
Philippines Daily Express/ January 12, 1982:

Movie actor Alfonso ‘Alfie’ Anido shot himself in the head with a .38 caliber revolver while intoxicated. This was what PC Metrocom investigators reported yesterday on the case of the 22-year old actor who 12 days ago was found dead in his bedroom with a bullet wound in his right temple. Anido, according to a five-page Metrocom report released by Maj. Gen. Prospero A. Olivas, Metrocom chief, left a suicide note addressed to his father Alberto Anido. The suicide note read: “Dad, sorry about this but I can’t take it anymore! Tell Katrina that I love you!” The Metrocom did not say what immediately caused the suicide.

The report said investigators concluded that it was suicide after appropriate examinations of Anido’s corpse, a caliber .38 Colt Diamond Buck revolver found at his bedside, the suicide note and slso after analysis of the testimonies of family members, and some medical personnel; who first attended to Anido on the night of Dec. 30. Maj. William Crespillo, head of the Metrocom Investigation Unit, said the actor was drunk at the time of the suicide. He said blood samples examined at the PC Crime Laboratory in Camp Crame showed a high alcohol content. Crespillo also said in his report to Olivas that a paraffin test by the NBI showed Anido positive for powder burns meaning that he had fired a gun. The PC report said he succumbed to a gunshot wound what went through his right temple and exited to the left temple. Anido’s father said that the fatal gun has been with the actor for about six months and that it was the victim’s property.

Left- Nympha (1980)- Stars Alma Moreno, Ricky Belmonte, Deborah Sun, Orestes Ojeda and Introducing Alfie Anido/ Directed by Joey Gosiengfiao

Right- Temptation Island (1980)- Stars Azenith Briones, Jennifer Cortez, Bambi Arambulo, Deborah Sun and Dina Bonnevie/with Ricky Belmonte, Alfie Anido, Tonio Gutierrez/ Directed by Joey Gosiengfiao

Alfie Anido was taking up a management course at Ateneo when he made his first screen appearance in 1980 in the movie Nympha. Catching the fans' fancy, he went on to appear in such box-office hits as Katorse and Blue Jeans. At the time of his death, Anido was working on two uncompleted films, Diosa and Diary of CG. His last completed movies were Throw Away Child and Dormitory.

Trivia: Art sometimes imitates Life--- and vice versa. Do you know that the only scene left unfilmed by Alfie Anido in Maryo J. delos Reyes “Diosa” is the ending where Alfie was supposed to put a gun on his temple and end it all? Now that Alfie is gone, Maryo is thinking of commissioning an expert to do a replica of Alfie’s face and have a double wear the face and do the scene for Alfie. (Ricardo F. Lo/ Funfare/ Jan. 82)

Katorse (1980)- Stars Alfie Anido, Gabby Concepcion
and Dina Bonnevie/ Directed by Joey Gosiengfiao

Left- Waikiki (1980)- Stars Alma Moreno, Lorna Tolentino and Rio Locsin/ with Ricky Belmonte, Cocoy Laurel, Alfie Anido, Raul Aragon & Alicia Alonzo/ Directed by Elwood Perez

Right- Blue Jeans (1981)- Stars Dina Bonnevie, Alfie Anida, Apo Hiking Society, Margie Braza, Opalyn Forster, Jenny Ramirez, Joel Alano/ Directed by Joey Gosiengfiao

Bilibid Boys (1981)- Stars Al Tantay, Mark Gil, Alfie Anido, Gabby Concepcion, Jimi Melendez, William Martinez, Choy Acuna/ Directed by Ishmael Bernal



Bilibid Gays (1981)- Stars Al Tantay, Mark Gil, Alfie Anido, Gabby Concepcion, Jimi Melendez, William Martinez, Choy Acuna together with Tito, Vic & Joey/ Directed by Jose 'Pepe' Wenceslao



Pabling (1981)- Stars Maricel Soriano and William Martinez/ Alfie Anido in a cameo role/ Directed by Ishmael Bernal



Kasalanan Ba? (1981)- Stars Rio Locsin, mark Gil and Alfie Anido/ Directed by Emmanuel H. Borlaza



Throw Away Child (1982)- Stars Alma Moreno, Dina Bonnevie and Alfie Anido/ Directed by Arsenio 'Boots' Bautista



Dormitoryo! Buhay Estudyante (1982)- Stars Lorna Tolentino, Mark Gil, Alfie Anido, Roderick Paulate, Arnold Gamboa, Ariosto Reyes, Jr., Ricky Davao, Charlie Davao, Angie Ferro/ Directed by Arman Reyes



Diosa (1982)- Stars Lorna Tolentino, Lloyd Samartino and Alfie Anido/ Directed by Maryo J. DeLos Reyes



Diary of Cristina Gaston (1982)- Stars Alma Moreno, Alfie Anido, Jimi Melendez, Albert Martinez/ Directed by Joey Gosiengfiao

BERT SARILE and POLLY RALLANCA'S "BOOGIE"

Espesyal Komiks/ 1990/ 1994

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Boogie, another popular cartoon character of Bert Sarile and Polly Rallanca, appeared in the pages of Espesyal Komiks in the 80s and 90s. It was adapted into the movie in 1981, with Dencio Padilla, FPJ's sidekick in many movies, in the lead role.

Boogie (1981)- Stars Oscar Obligacion, Sandy Andolong, Carmi Martin, Ike Lozada, Greg Lozano and Dencio Padilla in the title role/ Directed by Manuel Marcos

FROM 'SAN SEBASTIAN' TO 'SANTA VITTORIA'

I am a big fan of this great actor. I remember seeing him for the first time, as a member of a daring commando team assigned to destroy a huge German gun emplacements at Navarone in a 1962 war epic, The Guns of Navarone. He was at his best in such foreign film classics like La Strada (1954) and Zorba the Greek (1964). He was even great as an aging boxer in Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962). I admired him more in Viva Zapata (1952), Warlock (1959) and Lust for Life (1956). I was referring to the late actor Anthony Quinn, a two-time Academy Award winner for Best Supporting Actor.

Two of his movies I also like and owning: Guns for San Sebastian (1968) and The Secret of Santa Vittoria (1969). I got the chance to see these movies in the late 60s at the newly opened Maxim Theater along C.M. Recto Avenue, Manila.

Guns For San Sebastian (1968)

Anthony Quinn plays the role of Leon Alastray, a fugitive rebel who disguises as a priest . He manages to unite and defend the poor Mexican villagers and defeat the marauding Yaquis (led by Charles Bronson). This is one movie that should have long been released on dvd but still it has not been done. One great movie worthy to be kept by movie enthusiasts.

The Secret of Santa Vittoria (1969)

I saw this film in 1969 and it still remains with me. Though overlong, it still funny and entertaining. The setting is in a small Italian village during World War II. The village, known for its wine, is celebrating the overthrow of Mussolini's government. The villagers arrest the local fascist officials and elect a drunken wine merchant Bombolini (Anthony Quinn) as mayor. Soon, they learn that the Nazi will be coming to occupy their town and will be confiscating the wine. Bombolini must now face to the herculean task and challenge of protecting their 'treasure' --- over a million bottles of special wine.

1970 UAAP AND NCAA CAGE FINALS

Schoolyear 2009-2010 just opened. I'm pretty sure member teams of the UAAP and NCAA are in the thick of preparations for the coming collegiate cage wars. Thirty years ago, University of the East and Letran dominated the UAAP and NCAA varsity basketball tournaments respectively. Here's the story---


In 1970, University of the East won its sixth straight UAAP Crown beating the National University, 106- 95. The champion UE team was bannered by Rudolf Kutch, Rodolfo Soriano, Reynaldo Franco and Johnny Revilla, which later become star players of the mighty Crispa Redmanizers, together with stalwarts Adriano ‘Jun’ Papa and Danilo ‘Danny’ Florencio. (click image to read the full text)

On the other side of the fence, Letran captured the 1970 NCAA basketball championship with a clinching second straight victory over La Salle, 94-82. Among the recognizable players in the Letran team were center David Regullano, Rudolf Hines, brothers Ricky and Manuel Pineda. These players made a succesful transistion to the MICAA league. (click image to read the full text)

see: 1965 UAAP CAGE FINALS- UE vs. UST

COMING SOON: THE MAIN EVENT

Lacson vs. Mancao

"MANCAO" IS BACK!

Cezar Mancao (center) is secured by NBI director Nestor Mantaring (left) and VACC chair Dante Jimenez upon arrival at NAIA. (Inquirer photo)

Former Police senior superintendent Cezar Mancao was chief of the Presidential Anti-Organized Task Force (PAOCTF) for Luzon at the time of the abduction and murder of publicist Salvador “Bubby” Dacer and driver Emmanuel Corbito. Dacer and Corbito were killed and their bodies were burned on the evening of November 24, 2000 in a creek near Barangay Buna Lejos in Indang, Cavite. Then PNP chief and now Senator Panfilo Lacson headed PAOCTF.
Mancao fled the country in 2001 after he was also implicated in the bloody May 1, 2001 siege and has since been reportedly seen in different locations abroad

Mancao is now back, arriving last Thursday, June 4, after 8 years in hiding, following the Philippines’ extradition request. He is set to testify against Lacson. Lacson has denied the accusation.

I hope something positive will come out from his testimony. His disclosure may unlock some of the mysteries surrounding the 8-year old double murder. It’s about time that justice is served and the perpetrators punished.

In 1994, a movie was made based on the life of Mancao (played by Phillip Salvador) as the intrepid law enforcement officer. He was best remembered as the man responsible for the dismantling of the notorious Red Scorpion Group and the killing of its head, Joey de Leon.

ROBIN PADILLA: "BAD BOY" OF PHILIPPINE MOVIES (Circa 1988-94)

Like other big names in the movie industry, action star Robin Padilla (b.1967, Robinhood Fernando Cariño Padilla in real life) also started his colorful movie career in supporting roles--- to Ramon ‘Bong’ Revilla, Jr. in Alega Gang (1988) and to Phillip Salvador in Delima Gang (1989). However, there’s no stopping Robin’s phenomenal rise to stardom. From lead roles in Carnap King and Hindi Pahuhuli ng Buhay, both in 1989, he went on to become the next hottest new action star discovery of 1989. From then on, he reigned supreme in the 90s playing some of the most iconic roles in movies such as Barumbado, Sa Diyos Lang Ako Susuko, Walang Awa Kung Pumatay and finally Bad Boy, the movie that made him one of filmdom's top box-office draw and bankable star.

Since then, the moniker ‘bad boy’ was associated to Robin’s name. His bad boy image plus his ruggedly good looks served him well in his booming career. These are some of the best assets which carried and catapulted him to the top. However, Robin's sudden surge of popularity made him susceptible and vulnerable to troubles. In 1995, he was arrested and sentenced to a jail term for illegal possession of firearms. After three years, he was released on parole. Robin now is a changed person and very busy as ever.

Alega Gang: Public Enemy No. 1 of Cebu (1988)- Stars Ramon 'Bong' Revilla, Jr., Princess Punzalan, Vivian Fox, Ronel Victor, Robin Padilla, Jorge Estregan, Bing Davao and Paquito Diaz/ Directed by Pepe Marcos

Delima Gang (1989)- Stars Phillip Salvador, Marianne dela Riva, Robin Padilla, Rey 'PJ' Abellana, Bobby Zshornack and Efren Reyes, Jr./ Directed by Pepe Marcos

Eagle Squad (1989)- Stars Edu Manzano, Ricky Davao, Julio Diaz, Robin Padilla, George Estregan, Jr., Monsour Del Rosario, Nick Martel and Jinggoy Estrada / Directed by Jose Carreon

Left- Carnap King?: The Randy Padilla Story (1989)- Stars Robin Padilla, Maita Soriano, Jobelle Salvador, Leni Santos, Rina Reyes & Perla Bautista/ with Charlie Davao, RR Herrera, Bing Davao/ Directed by Deo Fajardo

Right- Hindi Pahululi ng Buhay (1989)- Stars Robin Padilla, Dawn Zulueta, Johnny Delgado, Mark Gil, Philip Gamboa, Raoul Aragonn, Ruel Vernal, Eula Valdez/ Directed by Joey Del Rosario

Left- Sa Diyos Lang Ako Susuko (1990)- Stars Robin Padilla, Amy Perez, Nanette Medved, Leah Orosa/ with Roi Vinzon, Subas Herrero, Marco Polo Garcia, Eddie Infante/ Directed by Manuel 'Fyke' Cinco

Right- Walang Awa Kung Pumatay (1990)- Stars Robin Padilla, Rita Avila, Conrad Poe, Dexter Doria, Zandro Zamora, Dick Israel, Bomber Moran Val Iglesia/ Directed by Junn P. Cabreira

Left- Barumbado (1990)- Stars Robin Padilla, Pinky de Leon, Michael de Mesa, Isabel Rivas, Lani Lobangco and Ernie Garcia/ Directed byWilly Milan

Right- Bad Boy (1990)- Stars Robin Padilla, Cristina Gonzales/ Directed by Eddie Rodriguez

Left- Hinukay Ko na ang Libingan Mo! (1991)- Stars Robin Padilla (in dual role), Nanette Medved, Cherry Pie Picache and Eddie Garcia/ Directed by Manuel 'Fyke' Cinco

Right- Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum(1991)- Stars Robin Padilla, Vina Morales, Rachel Alejandro, Kier Legaspi, Dennis Padilla/ Directed by Deo J. Fajardo

Left- Maging Sino Ka Man (1991)- Stars Sharon Cuneta and Robin Padilla/ with Edu Manzano, Vina Morales, Rosemarie Gil, Dennis Padilla, Orestes Ojeda, Suzanne Gonzales, Zandro Zamora/ Directed by Eddie Rodriguez

Right- Anak ni Baby Ama (1991)- Stars Robin Padilla, Eddie Rodriguez, Bembol Roco, Amy Perez, Ilonah Jean, Alan Paule, Rosemarie Gil/ Directed by Deo J. Fajardo, Jr.

Left- Manila Boy (1992)- Stars Robin Padilla, Aurora Sevilla, Andy Poe, Max Alvarado, Romy Diaz, Jorge Estregan, Berting Labra/ Directed by Antonio San Agustin

Right- Bad Boy 2 (1992)- Stars Robin Padilla, Monique Wilson, Cristina Gonzales, Vic Vargas, Dennis Padilla, Johnny Wilson / Directed by Bebong Osorio

Left- Miss na Miss Kita: Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum Part 2 (1992)- Stars Robin Padilla, Vina Morales, Kier Legaspi, Dennis Padilla, Dante Rivero and Charito Solis/ Directed by Deo J. Fajardo, Jr.

Right- Makuha Ka Sa Tingin: Kung Puede Lang (1993)- Stars Robin Padilla, Gelli De Belen, Dennis Padilla, Eddie Gutierrez, Marjorie Barretto / Directed by Deo J. Fajardo, Jr.

Left- 'Di Na Natuto: Sorry Na, Puwede Ba? (1993)- Stars Sharon Cuneta, Robin Padilla, Edu Manzano, Nida Blanca, Nino Muhlach, Timmy Cruz/ Directed by Edie Rodriguez

Right- P're Hanggang sa Huli (1994)- Stars Robin Padilla, Andrew E., Mat Ranillo III, Daniel Fernando, Donita Rose and Charlene Gonzales / Directed by Bebong Osorio

VITUG 'SHOOTS' LEE

I like taking candid shots.

He writes, he shoots. Ricky Lee and Romy Vitug in a series of amusing photos. Here, multi-awarded cinematographer Romeo ‘Romy’ Vitug taking snapshots of Ricardo 'Ricky' Lee during the latter’s book launch last May 31. Both subjects are icons and "hall-of-famers" in their respective fields.

photos by Simon Santos

Ricardo ‘Ricky’ Lee, one of the Philippines’ premier scriptwriters, has written more than 130 produced film scripts since 1979, earning for him more than 50 trophies from award-giving bodies. He also won several awards in fiction (Phil. Free Press, Palanca, National Book Award, etc); a Gawad-Balagtas Awardee 2000 from UMPIL and 100 Centennial Awardees of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Romeo ‘Romy’ Vitug is one of the country’s prized and multi-awarded cinematographers. He has won numerous awards from various award-giving bodies--- Gawad URIAN (6 times); FAMAS (4 times); FAP (8 times); Metro Manila Film Festival (5 times); Stars Awards (3 times) and a recipient of Lifetime Achievement Award from Cinemanila International Film Festival.

RICKY LEE'S BOOK LAUNCHING AND SIGNING

Si Tatang At Mga Himala ng Ating Panahon, Ricky Lee’s ground breaking collection of reportage, short fiction and screenplay, reissued as a special collector’s edition had a successful book launch last Sunday, 3 pm, May 31 at Powerbooks, SM Megamall. It was a star-studded event attended by celebrities, friends, fans, the Noranians, supporters and even ordinary people. They came in droves to witness the memorable affair.

Well-known and popular personalities like Angel Locsin, Dingdong Dantes, Phillip Salvador, Ogie Alcasid, Alan Paule, Jaclyn Jose, Jean Garcia, Vangie Labalan, Fernando Josef, Robi Domingo, Danton Remoto, Chanda Romero and Ricky Davao (who also stood as host) read excerpts from the writer’s book. National Artist for Literature, Bienvenido Lumbera addressed the opening remarks.

Book signing followed after the program.

The book

Books on sale

The Venue

SRO crowd

Ricky Lee

Ricky Davao as host

celebrity guests

National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera

Dingdong Dantes


Alan Paule


Jean Garcia


Jaclyn Jose

Phillip Salvador

Robi Domingo

Danton Remoto

Ogie Alcasid


Fernando 'Nanding' Josef

Ricky Davao and Chanda Romero


Angel Locsin and Vangie Labalan


Ricky signing for a friend


Ricky with cinematograher Romy Vitug


Ricky signing an old issue of the book

(photos by Simon Santos)