The Thin Line Between Vengeance and Passion in "Free to Love" (1981)

Free to Love is a 1981 romantic-drama film directed and written for the screen by Emmanuel H. Borlaza, based on a story by Toto Belano. The film is one of more than a dozen that features Cherie Gil and Rosemarie Gil, who are daughter and mother in real life.

VHS Cover

Photo Credit: Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Productions / Letterboxd

PLOT

Rosa, a hostess, is strict with her daughter Wendy, especially regarding her boyfriend Gary. Her strictness stems from deep wounds: Rosa and Wendy were abandoned by her husband Fernando, who married another woman to obtain a green card. Rosa’s only wish is for Wendy to finish college, work in America, and exact revenge on Fernando. One night, Rosa feared that bar owner Brando no longer pimped her to clients. She confronted him, leading to a heated quarrel that ended with Rosa being thrown out. In despair, she swallowed a large number of sleeping pills. Wendy found her in time and rushed her to the hospital. Wendy promised her mother she would do everything to prevent such an attempt again. Instead of staying with Gary, Wendy decided to go to America to find her father. Before leaving, she gave herself to Gary. In America, Wendy was warmly welcomed by her colleagues, which gave her peace of mind. She wrote to Rosa, expressing doubts about the obsessive plan to take revenge on Fernando. Rosa's reply pushed Wendy to make a telephone call to her father.

They reunited, and Fernando introduced Wendy to his new family—his wife Mildred and half-sister Cathy. Their first meeting was cordial, but tension arose when Fernando agreed to Wendy's request to live with them. Cathy welcomed her, but Mildred resented Wendy’s efforts to fit in.

Meanwhile, Cathy became pregnant by her boyfriend Bernard, but refused to marry him. She moved in with Bernard, leaving Wendy alone in the shared room at Fernando's house. Mildred grew angrier when Wendy asserted her right to stay. Mildred poisoned Cathy's mind against Wendy, and when Cathy returned, Mildred accompanied her to drive Wendy out. A commotion ensued, causing Cathy to miscarry. On that Fourth of July, Fernando disowned Wendy. Wendy found another place to stay and eventually entered into a relationship with Bernard. But when Mildred and Cathy discovered them, Wendy was consumed by guilt. She attempted suicide, but Bernard stopped her. In the end, Wendy left America, as Bernard could not give up his dreams there. Back in the Philippines, Wendy met Gary and confessed she was pregnant with Bernard's child—a relationship that began as revenge but turned into genuine affection. Wracked with guilt, she nearly sought an abortion, but Gary stopped her. Gary took responsibility, and Wendy once again faced her mother, whose heart softened upon seeing her grandchild. In the final scene, Bernard arrived and learned the truth: he was the child's real father. Wendy allowed him to see their child. In a quiet moment of acceptance, Bernard said goodbye. A handshake between Bernard and Gary appeared to symbolize reconciliation and closure, while Wendy looked on.

MAIN CAST

Cherie Gil    ...    Wendy

Rosemarie Gil    ... Rosa

Joe Fabregas    ...    Gary

Ernie Garcia    ...    Bernard

Deanna Galang    ...    Cathy

Andy Poe    ...    Fernando

Pacita Arana    ...    Mildred

SELECTED CREW

Direction and Screenplay ... Emmanuel H. Borlaza Story ... Toto Belano Cinematography ... Ben L. Lobo Editing ... Edgardo 'Boy' Vinarao Musical Direction ... Idan Cortez Executive Producer ... Espiridion Laxa

Full Movie: Tagalog Ilang-Ilang Productions / Cinema One / YouTube

"Bagsik ng Kamao" (Fierceness of Fist): A World Boxing Champion's Foray into Movies

Bagsik ng Kamao (Tagalog: Fierceness of Fist) is a 1996 action-drama film about police investigators who probe a crusading politician's murder, unraveling a web of criminal activities. Directed by Leonardo L. Garcia, the film is topbilled by Edu Manzano and Luisito Espinosa, who is the World Boxing Council featherweight champion at the time of release. The film expectedly showcases Espinosa's pugilistic skills.

PLOT

The film opens in a boxing gym, where trainees are shown honing the speed and power of their punches. Soon after, friends Ibañez and David are jogging at the Quezon Memorial Circle. Ibañez suddenly makes a pass at a lady jogger. He introduced himself as a boxer with an upcoming fight in Japan, with David purportedly his trainer.

In a warehouse, Ibañez sneaks in disguised as a worker. He discovers crates of weapons and is caught by a gun runner, but manages to outsmart the latter. A shootout ensues, and Ibañez takes down the other gun runners. Police reinforcements arrive and seize the shipment.

Meanwhile, at the mansion of Ex-Governor Pablo Gabor is having a discussion with the police chief and Raf, the henchman. The ex-governor accuses the vice mayor of leaking information about his illegal businesses to the authorities. Raf confirms this, claiming he saw the vice mayor coming from Manila.

The ex-governor advises the police chief to talk to the vice mayor to gain his support. He secretly orders Raf to get ahead of the police chief at the site of the vice mayor's consultation with the townsfolk.

At the community meeting, Barangay Captain Milo stresses the need to stop the ex-governor's illegal businesses for the sake of the townsfolk's children. They sign a petition in support of this move. However, a spy informs Raf of the meeting's location, prompting an attack. Milo, Karias and the vice mayor manage to escape.

Elsewhere, Cris is unable to attend the meeting due to illness. He sends his daughter Bella to the fish pond. There, Bella witnesses Raf shooting the vice mayor. Shocked, she flees from Raf's men and narrowly escapes.

The CIS Chief orders Ibañez to proceed to Sto. Niño, Ilocos to investigate the vice mayor's murder -- with David as his mission partner. Though hesitant because of David's hot temper, Ibañez is told their contrasting personalities make a good team. Upon arrival, they coordinate with Milo to arrange protection for Bella, the sole witness to the crime.

While Bella hesitates to testify, Ibañez and David continue to clash with the ex-governor's men. Eventually, Bella agrees to speak and joins the duo. In retaliation, Raf brutally beats Cris.

The police chief, acting as the ex-governor's emissary, approaches Ibañez and David separately with bribes. Both refuse, but David mistakenly believes Ibañez accepted money, sparking a fight. Bella intervenes, threatening not to testify if they continue.

The ex-governor then orders Raf to summon a hitman called El Tigre to finish the job. This move also prompts the police chief to break away from the ex-governor's influence. Attacks against Ibañez and David intensify, and Raf kidnaps Bella. With Ibañez’s help, David rescues her successfully.

Raf and his men retaliated, killing Milo. Together with the police chief's men, Ibañez and David stormed the stronghold of the ex-governor. Ibañez killed El Tigre, who was hiding in the confessional, followed by Raf, and finally the ex-governor himself. David came to Ibañez’s aid—though he had fallen, he was saved by his bulletproof vest. In the end, Ibañez and David bid farewell to Bella as they needed to undergo debriefing. But Bella insisted on joining them. In a final moment, Ibañez and David kissed her on both cheeks.

MAIN CAST

Edu Manzano ... Ibanez

Luisito Espinosa ... David

Sharmaine Suarez ... Bella

Charlie Davao ... Ex-Governor Pablo Gabor

Jess Lapid Jr. ... Raf

Romy Diaz ... El Tigre

Conrad Poe ... Gun Runner

Jess Vargas ... CIS Chief

Max Alvarado ... Barangay Captain Milo

Renato Robles ... Police Chief

Dante Castro ... Karias

Cris Daluz ... Cris

Robert Rivera ... Vice Mayor

SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Leonardo L. Garcia

Story and Screenplay ... Oden Amurao

Cinematography ... Ricardo Herrera

Production Designer ... Neil Espolong

Editing ... Rene Tala

Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer ... Espiridion Laxa

Full Movie: EDL Productions / OctoArts Films / YouTube

Movies That Mark 30th Year in February 1996

 At least 14 Filipino movies were released in theaters in February 1996. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.

Seth Corteza

Maruja

Sobra-Sobra, Labis-Labis

Taguan

Radio Romance

Syempre Ikaw Pa Rin

Habang May Buhay

Sandata

Patikim ng Pinya

April Boys: Sana'y Mahalin Mo Rin Ako

Sa Bingit ng Kamatayan

Moises Arcangel: Sa Guhit ng Bala

Ama … Ina … Anak

Maginoong Barumbado: Kung May Halaga Pa ang Buhay Mo

Details of each mentioned title follow.

Seth Corteza

Original Release Date: February 01, 1996

Production Company: Regal Films

MAIN CAST

Ace Vergel    ...    Seth Corteza

Joanne Quintas    ...    Pia

Raymond Keannu    ...    Ed Roman

Bernard Bonnin    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Carlos Padilla Jr.    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Amado Cortez    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

SELECTED CREW

Direction and Story    ...    Efren C. Piñon

Screenplay    ...    Mike Loanzon

Cinematography    Vic Anao

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]

Editing    ...    Jose Solo

Musical Direction … Mon Del Rosario

Executive Producer … Lily Y. Monteverde

NOTE:

TAGLINE: "Tingga ... Bakal ... Pusong Bato ... (Tagalog: Lead ... Iron ... Heart of Stone ...)

Maruja

Original Release Date: February 01, 1996

Production Company: Viva Films

MAIN CAST  

Carmina Villarroel    ...    Maruja

Rustom Padilla    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Albert Martinez    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Jaclyn Jose    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Rosemarie Gil … [information to be provided upon availability]

SELECTED CREW

Direction and Screenplay    ...    Jose Javier Reyes

Story    ...    Mars Ravelo (story and characters)

Cinematography    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Production Design    ...    Tatus L. Aldana

Editing    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Line Producer    ...    JoAnn Cabalda Banaga

Executive Producer    ...    Vic Del Rosario Jr.

NOTE:

*** Tagline: "Pinaghiwalay ng panahon. Pinagtagpo ng tadhana. (Tagalog: Separated by time. United by destiny.)

Sobra-Sobra, Labis-Labis

Original Release Date: February 08, 1996

Production Company: Falcon Films

MAIN CAST

Ina Raymundo    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Amanda Page    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Richard Bonnin    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Daniel Fernando    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Jay Manalo    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Tata Esteban

Story and Screenplay … Rei Nicandro

Cinematography    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Production Design    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Editing    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer    ...    Vic Del Rosario Jr.

Taguan

Original Release Date: February 08, 1996

Production Company: MAQ Productions

MAIN CAST

Gelli de Belen    ...    Yoyah

Janice de Belen    ...    Sister Shawie

Jomari Yllana    ...    Serge

Aljon Jimenez    ...    Gerard

Giselle Toengi    ...    Reggie

Wendell Ramos    ...    Lemuel

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Don Escudero

Story and Screenplay    ...    Jake Tordesillas

Cinematography    ...    Ely Cruz

Production Design    ...    Sammy Aranzamendez

Editing    ...    Danny Gloria

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer … Sherida Monteverde and Douglas Quijano

NOTE:

*** Wendell Ramos is introduced in this film.

Radio Romance

Original Release Date: February 14, 1996

Production Company: Star Cinema

MAIN CAST  

Gelli de Belen    ...    Veronica / Roni

Paolo Abrera    ...    Jed Montinola

Claudine Barretto    ....    Marian Cordero

Rico Yan    ...    Gary Balmaceda

Sharmaine Arnaiz    ...    Babsy Fernandez

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Jose Javier Reyes

Story and Screenplay    ...    Mia Concio Imperial, Jose Javier Reyes

Cinematography    .... Ricardo O. Jacinto

Production Design    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Editing    ... Danilo “Danny” Gloria

Musical Direction    ...    Jessie Lasaten

Executive Producer    ...    Charo Santos-Concio, Malou N. Santos

Syempre Ikaw Pa Rin

Original Release Date: February 14, 1996

Production Company: [information to be provided upon availability]

MAIN CAST

Eric Quizon … Banjo

Giselle Töngi … Dixie Ann

Ricky Davao … Boy Mambo

Nova Villa … Dña. Herachia

Rochelle Barrameda … Carol

SELECTED CREW

Direction … Boots Plata

Story and Screenplay … Ces Quesada

Cinematography … [information to be provided upon availability]

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]

Executive Producer … Eric Quizon

Habang May Buhay

Original Release Date: February 1996

Production Company: Viva Films

MAIN CAST

Donna Cruz … Pia

Ian de Leon … Gary

Hilda Koronel … Zenny

Eddie Gutierrez … Menandro

Candy Pangilinan … Claire

SELECTED CREW

Direction … Mac Alejandre

Story and Screenplay … [information to be provided upon availability]

Cinematography … Yam Laranas

Production Design … Allan Arquiza

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]

Executive Producer … Vic Del Rosario Jr. 

Sandata

Original Release Date: February 1996

Production Company: Regal Films

MAIN CAST

Zoren Legaspi … Victor

Ruel Vernal … Tibo

Orestes Ojeda … [information to be provided upon availability]

Mike Gayoso … Alex

Ara Mina (as Danica Gomez) … [information to be provided upon availability]

SELECTED CREW

Direction … Teddy Gomez, Phillip Ko

Story and Screenplay … [information to be provided upon availability]

Cinematography … [information to be provided upon availability]

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]

Executive Producer … Lily Y. Monteverde

Patikim ng Pinya

Original Release Date: February 21, 1996

Production Company: Seiko Films

MAIN CAST

Rosanna Roces    ...    Myra

Leandro Baldemor    ...    Juanito

Natasha Ledesma    ...    Loretta

Anton Bernardo    ...    Edgar

Dencio Padilla    ...    Attorney

Carol Dauden    ...    Cynthia

Luz Fernandez    ...    Edgar's Mother

Joey Galvez    ...    Paolo

SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Rico Mambo

Story and Screenplay    ... Humilde Roxas, Salvador Royales, and Nerdie Cruz

Cinematography ... Felizardo Bailen

Production Design ... Raymond Bajarias

Editing ... Ferren Salumbides

Musical Direction ... Bienvenido 'Benny' Medina

Executive Producer ... Robbie Tan

NOTE:

*** The storyline follows how the popular singing duo Vingo and Jimmy, collectively known as the April Boys, rose to fame.

April Boys: Sana'y Mahalin Mo Rin Ako

Original Release Date: February 21, 1996

Production Company: Vicor Films

MAIN CAST

Vingo Regino    ...    Vingo

Jimmy Regino    ...    Jimmy

Vina Morales    ...    Letty

Donita Rose    ...    Ingrid

Nida Blanca    ...    Inay

Alicia Alonzo    ...    Pilar

Glydel Mercado    ...    Tuesday

Candy Pangilinan    ...    Chuchay

SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Emmanuel H. Borlaza

Story and Screenplay    ... Maning Borlaza and Frank Rivera

Cinematography ... [information to be provided upon availability]

Production Design ... Ronaldo Cadapan

Editing ... Rene Tala

Musical Direction ... Mon Del Rosario

Executive Producer ... Vic Del Rosario

NOTE:

*** The storyline follows how the popular singing duo Vingo and Jimmy, collectively known as the April Boys, rose to fame.

Sa Bingit ng Kamatayan

Original Release Date: February 21, 1996

Production Company: Omni Films International

MAIN CAST

Derek Dee    ...    Danny

Sunshine Cruz    ...    Susan

Raymond Bagatsing    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Mark Gil    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Janine Barredo    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Ricardo Cepeda    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Jude Estrada    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Jaime Garchitorena    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Ernie Garcia    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Luis Gonzales    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Romy V. Suzara

Story and Screenplay    ... [information to be provided upon availability]

Cinematography ... [information to be provided upon availability]

Production Design ... [information to be provided upon availability]

Editing ... [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction ... [information to be provided upon availability]

Executive Producer ... [information to be provided upon availability]

NOTES:

*** First starring role of Derek Dee.

*** First collaboration between Phillip Salvador and Carmina Villarroel.

Moises Arcangel: Sa Guhit ng Bala

Original Release Date: February 22, 1996

Production Company: MAQ Productions

MAIN CAST

Eddie Garcia    ...    Moises Arcangel

Ricky Davao    ...    Gov. Nemecio Madrigal

John Regala    ...    William

Alma Concepcion    ...    Bernadette

SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Toto Natividad

Story and Screenplay    ... Humilde 'Meek' Roxas

Cinematography ... Ramon Marcelino

Production Design ... Judy Lou de Pio

Editing ... Ruben Natividad

Musical Direction ... Mon Del Rosario

Executive Producer ... Douglas Quijano

NOTE:

*** The storyline follows a retired military man whose entire family was killed off by an unknown assassin. He then becomes bodyguard to a provincial governor.

Ama ... Ina ... Anak

Original Release Date: February 29, 1996

Production Company: Star Cinema

MAIN CAST

Maricel Soriano    ...    Marilen Alvarez

Edu Manzano    ...    Santi Alvarez

Angelica Panganiban    ...    Issa

Boots Anson-Roa    ...    Cita Nolasco

Jolina Magdangal    ...    Owie Nolasco

Rico Yan    ...    Dennis

Jackie Lou Blanco    ...    Bea

Cherry Pie Picache    ...    Susan

Teresa Loyzaga    ...    Christy

SELECTED CREW

Direction, Story, and Screenplay ... Jose Javier Reyes

Cinematography ... Ricardo Jacinto

Production Design ... Egay Littaua

Editing ... Manet A. Dayrit

Musical Direction ... Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer ... Lily Y. Monteverde and Charo Santos-Concio

NOTE:

*** First collaboration between Maricel Soriano and Edu Manzano in about than two years, since 1994's Separada.

Maginoong Barumbado: Kung May Halaga Pa ang Buhay Mo

Original Release Date: February 29, 1996

Production Company: OctoArts Films

MAIN CAST

Phillip Salvador    ...    Angel Solomon

Carmina Villaroel    ...    Carmela

Eric Quizon    ...    Walter

CJ Ramos    ...    Mark

Efren Reyes    ...    Torres

Dick Israel    ...    Monsod

Dencio Padilla    ...    Tata Temyong

Atoy Co    ...    Samadan

SELECTED CREW

Direction ... Augusto Salvador

Story and Screenplay    ... Humilde 'Meek' Roxas and Felix Dalay

Cinematography ... Baltazar Dauz and Roger Estrada

Production Design ... Rolly Bernardo

Editing ... Ningning De Leon

Musical Direction ... Mon Del Rosario

Executive Producer ... Orly R. Ilacad

NOTES:

*** First action-drama movie in which Eric Quizon played the role of a villain.

*** First collaboration between Phillip Salvador and Carmina Villarroel.

Dangerous Fascination with the Criminal Life in "Batang Estero" (Slum Kid)

Batang Estero (Tagalog: Slum Kid) is a 1996 action-drama film that narrates the story of a young man who grew in poverty and got enamored with the criminal life.

Directed and written by Deo Fajardo Jr., the film is one of the few that features the real-life son-and-father tandem of Michael and Dante Rivero.

PLOT 

Domeng grew up with a burning desire to become wealthy and influential. As the son of a school bus driver, he has always felt deprived in life.

Domeng idolized the crime syndicate boss Suarez, who in his eyes was "greater than the rich" because he was both feared and respected in their community. He saw in Suarez the freedom and money he had long dreamed of. But for his father, Suarez was a bad influence. Despite the warnings, Domeng continued to look up to him.

Meanwhile, Joy, a woman who sold her body for a living, had feelings for Domeng. But since they were both poor, Domeng rejected her.

One day, Domeng witnessed Suarez kill one of his own men. When invited by the police to testify, Domeng denied Suarez's crime and even gave a description that matched the investigating officer.

Suarez tried to reward him, but Domeng refused. Instead, Suarez offered him a job as a waiter in his gambling den. There, Domeng encountered Lope, a patron who bore an irrational grudge against him.

With money now coming in, Domeng treated his friends at a beerhouse. But when a dancer gave Domeng attention, Marco Polo's group grew jealous, leading to a brawl outside. 

Amid the chaos, Domeng met Zsa-Zsa, Marco Polo's sister, and the two seemed to develop mutual affection.

The tension with Lope continued. In one encounter, Lope fired a gun at Domeng, but the situation turned and Lope ended up dead. Domeng was imprisoned. Only Joy and his friends visited him. Joy confessed her love, but Domeng pushed her away, telling her to find someone else.

Domeng was later freed when Suarez paid his bail. Suarez welcomed him as a "certified member" of the syndicate. His father worried, warning again that Suarez would only bring ruin. Domeng ignored him, calling their life "miserable."

Suarez assigned Domeng as a delivery man for "chemicals." In one transaction, a client offered him more money to defect to their group. 

One night, Domeng arrived at a house where a woman emerged from the swimming pool—Suarez's lover. Barely dressed, she made Domeng uneasy. He explained Suarez had sent him, but Suarez was absent. The woman told him to return the next day, only to seduce him until he gave in.

Eventually, Domeng discovered that the "chemicals" were illegal drugs. He confronted the client, who said there was no turning back. Suarez already knew everything, including Domeng's affair with his lover. Domeng was now in danger.

Suarez ordered his men to kill his lover. Meanwhile, Domeng had eloped with Zsa-Zsa. At a hotel, Zsa-Zsa asked Domeng to get some food. While he was away, one of Suarez's men unitentionally shot Zsa-Zsa, who was lying under a blanket.

Domeng and his friends regrouped at their hideout to plan revenge. They agreed to keep Antonio, the youngest, out of trouble. Domeng urged him to continue his studies. But outside the hideout, Suarez’s men planted a bomb in Domeng's car. When the alarm went off, Antonio volunteered to move it. He died in the explosion.

Meanwhile, police planted a gun in Domeng’s father’s house, leading to his unlawful arrest. In jail, father and son reunited. Domeng and his friends were also imprisoned on fabricated charges. His father lamented their real crime was simply being poor.

Inside, they met an inmate named Mekeni, who said the police were "magicians." Domeng insisted Suarez was behind all the trouble.

Soon, Domeng and his group became targets of a prison gang. Suarez ordered the head of this prison gang to start a riot to kill Domeng. But in the chaos, it was Domeng's father who was stabbed.

As he lay dying, Domeng's father revealed that a deceased friend named Noel San Miguel is Domeng's real father. 

Later, Angelito San Miguel, Domeng's brother, visited him and promised help. The lawyer Angelito sent successfully secured Domeng and his friends' acquittal. In retaliation, Suarez had the lawyer killed.

Eventually, Suarez’s men kidnapped Domeng and Joy. In an abandoned building, Domeng managed to seize a gun, allowing them to escape. A chase, fistfights, and gunfire followed. One by one, Suarez's men were killed until only Domeng and Suarez remained.

Domeng and Suarez struggled fiercely until Suarez was left dangling from the balcony ledge with one hand. Suddenly, Suarez's henchman attacked Domeng from behind. Before crashing to the ground, the henchman managed to shove Domeng, giving Suarez the upper hand.

Seizing the moment, Domeng yanked Suarez from the ledge, but Suarez clung desperately to Domeng's leg. Domeng kicked him off, sending Suarez plummeting.

Yet Suarez survived. Rising again, he seized Joy as a hostage. Joy fought back and broke free, giving Domeng the opening he needed to finally shoot Suarez.

Domeng was imprisoned once more. Inside, he was greeted by his friend Mekeni. That night, Domeng killed the prison gang head to avenge his father.

MAIN CAST

Michael Rivero ... Domeng

Dante Rivero ... Domeng's father

John Regala    ...    Suarez

Beth Tamayo ... Joy

Maricel Morales ... Zsa-zsa

Lovely Rivero ... Suarez's lover

Julio Diaz ... Client

Jorge Estregan Jr, ... Prison Gang Head

Dick Israel ... Mekeni

Gino Antonio ... Lope

Marco Polo ... Zsa-zsa's brother

Alona Alegre ... Attorney

Raymart Santiago ... Angelito San Miguel

Boy Roque ... Suarez's henchman

SELECTED CREW

Direction and Story ... Deo J. Fajardo Jr.

Editing ... Orlando 'Totoy' Vinarao

Musical Direction ... Jesse Lasaten

Executive Producer ...    Atty. Eduardo B. Flaminiano

Full Movie: FLT Films International / OctoArts Films / YouTube

The Absent-Minded Dolfo in "Ta-ra-ra-dyin ... Pot-pot!" (1972)

Ta-ra-ra-dyin ... Pot-pot! is a 1972 romance-comedy film that follows the hilarious adventures of an orphan named Dolfo. Directed by Jose 'Pepe' Wenceslao, the film is topbilled by Dolphy. The music was created by Jose Mari Chan. At that time, Chan has already established himself as a creator of jingles for use in TV and radio advertising.

This is one of the major films in which Dolphy worked with Jose Mari Chan. The others are Karioka Etchos de Amerika (1971) and Pinokyo en Little Snow White (1972).

The title Ta-ra-ra-dyin ... Pot-pot! comprises onomatopoeic words referring to items used by the character Dolfo in his job as a vendor:

Ta-ra-ra-dyin for the drum-like sounds that can be made from the two large cans attached at the sides of his bicycle. These cans contain Dolfo's merchandise.

Potpot is for the the horn with a rubber bulb. This bulb is squeezed to get the attention of potential customers.

Screen Capture: Lea Productions / Dolphy Filmography

PLOT

The film opens with two men near a bridge. Mario stops Dolfo from attempting to end his life. From that moment, they become friends. With nowhere else to go, Dolfo accepts Mario's offer to stay at his house.

Dolfo finds work as a newspaper boy, but one day his bicycle collides with Tomas, a moneylender. While on the street, Dolfo is captivated by a young woman named Cynthia—who turns out to be Tomas's daughter. Distracted by her beauty, Dolfo crashes and eventually loses his job.

At home, Dolfo remains absent-minded. He forgets the rice cooking on the stove, and the house nearly catches fire—saved only by Mario's timely arrival. Mario scolds Dolfo but reassures him about the broken bicycle. Soon after, Dolfo secures new work as a pan de sal peddler.

In their conversation, Dolfo mentions the beautiful woman he encountered. Being shy, he asks Mario for advice on how to court her. But as events unfold, it is revealed that Cynthia is Mario's classmate—and the real romance is between Mario and Cynthia.

The introduction also allowed to patch up things between Dolfo and Tomas.

Meanwhile, at Tomas and Cynthia's house, a woman is often seen lingering nearby. She is later revealed to be Luisa, Tomas's former lover and Cynthia's mother.

One day, Roger, a persistent suitor, deceives Cynthia into a kidnapping. He tells her that Tomas has been in an accident and that she must rush to the hospital. Luisa happens to be nearby and enters Roger's car, perhaps hoping to finally speak with her daughter.

Dolfo's co-workers witness the abduction. Though heartbroken in love, Dolfo informs Mario of what happened. Together, they head to Roger's resthouse to rescue Cynthia. In the midst of the action, mother and daughter are finally reunited.

Cynthia is successfully rescued, and Dolfo steps aside, entrusting her to Mario. As Dolfo walks away, he is struck by a car. A woman emerges from the vehicle and offers to take him to the hospital—hinting at the possibility of a new love awaiting Dolfo.

MAIN CAST

Dolphy ... Dolfo

Hilda Koronel ... Cynthia

Caridad Sanchez ... Luisa

Raul Aragon ... Mario

Da Big 3 Sullivans ... Dolfo's co-workers

Juano Juarez ... Roger

Boots Anson Roa    ...    Woman from Car (uncredited)

Movies That Mark 30th Year in January 2026

 At least 13 Filipino movies were released in theaters in January 1996. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.

Mabangis na Lungsod

Dyesebel

Batang Z

Sariwa

Sa Kamay ng Batas

Anak, Pagsubok Lamang ng Diyos

Oki Doki Doc: The Movie

Impakto

Adan Lazaro

Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa

Hindi Lahat ng Ahas ay Nasa Gubat

May Nagmamahal sa Iyo

Ober da Bakod 2: Da Treasure Adbentyur

Ganti ng Puso

Details of each mentioned title to follow.

Mabangis na Lungsod (Tagalog: Fierce City)

Original Release Date: January 04, 1996

Production Company: Libran Films

MAIN CAST

Monsour Del Rosario    ...    Major Sandos

Cynthia Khan    ...    Captain Yiang

Yuen Biao    ...    Li Chin Tang

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Alan Chung San Chui and Bun Yuen

Screenplay    ...    Ging Siu Fok

Cinematography    ...    Eduardo 'Baby' Cabrales and Stephen Tak-Yip Poon

Production Design    ...    Neal 'Buboy' Tan

Editing    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Musical Direction    ...    [information to be provided upon availability]

Producers    ...    Wai Shing Chung and Wai Lam

NOTES:

*** The storyline follows two police officers who go undercover in the Philippines to bring down a criminal organization.

*** Known in international markets as Tough Beauty and the Sloppy Slop  

Dyesebel  

Original Release Date: January 04, 1996

Production Company: Viva Films  

MAIN CAST

Charlene Gonzales    ...    Dyesebel

Matthew Mendoza    ...    Fredo

Gloria Diaz    ...    Banak

Jaclyn Jose    ...    Lucia

Albert Martinez    ...    Gildo

Maritoni Fernandez    ...    Dyangga

Dindi Gallardo    ...    Bangenge

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Emmanuel H. Borlaza

Story and Screenplay    ...    Emmanuel H. Borlaza, Frank G. Rivera (based on Mars Ravelo's comic)

Cinematography … Gener Buenaseda  

Production Design … Ben Payumo  

Editing … Danny Gloria  

Musical Direction … Nonong Buencamino  

Executive Producer … Vic Del Rosario Jr.

NOTE:

*** Plot Synopsis from VHS: "Dyesebel, a mermaid born to a childless couple, is forced to leave her home and survive on her own because the barrio-folks believe she carries bad luck. She is adopted by Banak, an adult mermaid. She grew up to be a beauty but the adoptive daughter of the queen of the sea envies her. This forced her to go back to the human world where she once lived. This time a lady, she meets Fredo, a human, and they fall in love. They struggle for the love they share and they end up victorious."

Batang Z 

Original Release Date: January 04, 1996  

Production Company: MAQ Productions

MAIN CAST

Tom Taus Jr. … Umpoy / Batang Z

Jorge Estregan … Dr. Zyke

Melissa Mendez … Corina

Berting Labra … Lucio

Dan Pacia … Itok

Marco Ballesteros    ...    Peping/Pintado

Charles Jordan Sabalboro    ...    Dodong/Ninja Tech

Marivic Dueñas    ...    Neneng/Amazona

Karel Marquez    ...    Upeng/Roller Girl

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Bey Vito

Story and Screenplay    ...    Rolf Mahilom

Cinematography    ... Clodualdo 'Ding' Austria

Production Design    ...    Pete 'Apo' Manansala

Editing    ... Edmund 'Bot' Jarlego

Musical Direction    ...    Jessie Lasaten

Executive Producer    ...    Marie Sherida Monteverde and Douglas Quijano

NOTE:

*** The titular child superhero leads a group that includes Pintado, Tech-Ninja, Rollergirl and Amazona in their fight against Dr. Zyke, who plots world domination via mind control through video games.

Sariwa  

Original Release Date: January 04, 1996

Production Company: Seiko Films

MAIN CAST

Priscilla Almeda    ...    Susie

Romnick Sarmenta    ...    Luisito

Leandro Baldemor    ...    Nardo

Gina Pareño    Cristy

Jaime Fabregas    ...    Facundo

Luz Valdez    ...    Aurora

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Rico Mambo

Story and Screenplay    ...    Genaro 'Nerdie' Cruz

Cinematography    ...    Felizardo Bailen

Production Design    ...    Sonny Maculada

Editing    ...    Ferren Salumbides

Musical Direction    ...    Bienvenido Medina

Executive Producer    ...    Robbie Tan

NOTE:

*** The storyline follows Susie, who is caught in the middle of her mother Cristy's troubles. Cristy, a gambler drowning in debt owed to Facundo and Aurora, discovers that Luisito, Facundo's son has taken an interest in Susie. Seeing an opportunity, Cristy devises a scheme involving her daughter to free herself from the weight of her obligations.

### **Sa Kamay ng Batas**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: [information to be provided upon availability]  

**MAIN CAST**  

Edu Manzano … Alex Calderon  

John Estrada … Frankie  

Eric Fructuoso … Darwin  

Alma Concepcion … Thelma Calderon  

Willie Revillame … Elvis  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Pepe Marcos  

Story and Screenplay … Manuel “Fyke” Cinco, Henry Nadong, Edu Manzano, Mike Relon Makiling  

Cinematography … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Executive Producer … [information to be provided upon availability]  

---

### **Anak, Pagsubok Lamang ng Diyos**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: FLT Films  

**MAIN CAST**  

Robin Padilla … Rico  

Sharmaine Arnaiz … Kathryn  

Tirso Cruz III … Warden  

Ramon Christopher … Dennis  

Ricky Davao … Escandor  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Deo J. Fajardo Jr.  

Story … Robin Padilla  

Screenplay … Jose N. Carreon, Deo J. Fajardo Jr.  

Cinematography … Romeo Huete  

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Editing … Francis Vinarao  

Musical Direction … Vehnee Saturno  

Executive Producer … Rose Flaminiano  

---

### **Oki Doki Doc: The Movie**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: Star Cinema  

**MAIN CAST**  

Aga Muhlach … Doc Aga  

Babalu … Mang Berto  

Claudine Barretto … Toni  

Paolo Contis … Paolo  

Carmina Villarroel … George  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Efren Jarlego  

Story and Screenplay … Loida Viriña  

Cinematography … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Executive Producer … Soc Jose  

---

### **Impakto**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: Regal Films  

**MAIN CAST**  

Gelli de Belen … Doray  

Antonio Aquitania … Hermie  

Daria Ramirez … Salve  

Cherry Pie Picache … Noemi  

Candy Pangilinan … Melba  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Don Escudero  

Story and Screenplay … Wali Ching  

Cinematography … Ely Cruz  

Production Design … Sammy Aranzamendez  

Editing … Danny Gloria  

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Executive Producer … Lily Y. Monteverde  

---

### **Adan Lazaro**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: Premiere Productions  

**MAIN CAST**  

Roi Vinzon … Adan Lazaro  

Sunshine Cruz … Rowena  

Eddie Rodriguez … Col. Roque  

Tony Ferrer … Vertigo  

Roldan Aquino … Gen. Roxas  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Pepe Marcos  

Story … Roi Vinzon  

Screenplay … Henry Nadong  

Cinematography … Danny Bustos  

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Editing … Pepe Marcos  

Musical Direction … Rey Magtoto  

Executive Producer … Espiridion Laxa  

---

### **Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: Viva Films  

**MAIN CAST**  

Ruffa Gutierrez … Isabel  

Dick Israel … Litoy  

Alain Sia … Simon  

Paquito Diaz … Provo  

Dindi Gallardo … Elyang  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Celso Ad. Castillo  

Story and Screenplay … Celso Ad. Castillo  

Cinematography … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Executive Producer … William C. Leary  

---

### **Hindi Lahat ng Ahas ay Nasa Gubat**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: [information to be provided upon availability]  

**MAIN CAST**  

Lito Lapid … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Anjanette Abayari … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Perla Bautista … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Ramon Christopher … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Michael de Mesa … [information to be provided upon availability]  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Augusto Salvador  

Story and Screenplay … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Cinematography … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Production Design … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Editing … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Musical Direction … [information to be provided upon availability]  

Executive Producer … [information to be provided upon availability]  

---

### **May Nagmamahal sa Iyo (a.k.a. Madonna and Child)**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: Star Cinema, Regal Films  

**MAIN CAST**  

Lorna Tolentino … Louella  

Ariel Rivera … Nestor  

Claudine Barretto … Janine  

Stefano Mori … Conrad  

Jaclyn Jose … Editha  

**SELECTED CREW**  

Direction … Marilou Diaz-Abaya  

Story and Screenplay … Ricky Lee, Shaira Mella Salvador  

Cinematography … Eduardo Jacinto  

Production Design … Jude Quinito, Malou Dugtong, Noel Ribaya  

Editing … Jess Navarro  

Musical Direction … Nonong Buencamino  

Executive Producer … Charo Santos-Concio, Lily Y. Monteverde, Malou N. Santos  

---

### **Ober da Bakod 2: Da Treasure Adbentyur**  

Original Release Date: January 1996  

Production Company: Viva Films  

**MAIN CAST**  

Janno Gibbs … Mokong  

Anjo Yllana …

Nostalgic Pinoy Party Food: Hot Dog and Marshmallows on Stick

During parties back in the day, especially in the Eighties, one colorful centerpiece never failed to appear—and it remains vivid in my memory: hot dogs and marshmallows skewered on barbecue sticks.

I will not mention the year but I had such a centerpiece on my fifth birthday party (so far the only birthday party I ever had).

The hot dog could be skewered whole, or for uniformity, sliced into pieces the same size as the marshmallows. Each stick would then be inserted into a pineapple, watermelon, or cabbage—depending on what suitable fruit or vegetable was available. 

There were no definite standards about what to use as a base. As long as the base could support the skewers, it was good enough. Sometimes, even the trunk of a banana tree was used.

For the child I was back then, this edible centerpiece was truly stimulating to the senses. The aroma and savory taste of cooked hot dog paired with the sweetness of colorful marshmallows created a delightful contrast. 

When the marshmallows came in pastel colors, they matched the predominant aesthetic of the Eighties. And if the base was wrapped in foil, the whole presentation sparkled even more.

This centerpiece also carried social symbolism. Each stick of hot dog and marshmallows seemed to represent the hosts and guests of the gathering. The way each stick was anchored into a single base depicted a shared focus: collective joy.

Although this centerpiece continued to appear at parties during the Nineties and early 2000s, its presence seemed to fade as the 2020s arrived.

Perhaps people have become more health-conscious and practical, especially due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. After all, we know that hotdogs and marshmallows are processed foods. There are also added safety concerns because of the protruding sticks.

If given the chance, I would still love to see this centerpiece to the new generation.

What I want to experience once more is its nostalgic value. In light of the concerns I have mentioned, I will remind myself and others to "eat with caution."

And if they ever ask what this centerpiece means, I will wholeheartedly share the little reflection I have just offered.

Photo Credit: Facebook