In the 1991 film Juan Tamad at Mr. Shoo-Li sa Mongolian Barbecue: The Movie, political and social maladies which continue to plague the exercise of democracy in the Philippines up to this day are depicted. The official campaign season for the 2025 midterm elections has started, so viewing this movie is highly recommended.
There is a hilarious scene in which Tong-ressman Manhik Manaog (played by Leo Martinez) convened the citizens of the newly-independent country of Lawa-Lawaan. He provided a skewed interpretation of democracy - a government of the people, POOR the people, and BUY the people. This version of democracy still resonates in the Philippine society.
The scene unfolded in the following manner: After the Independence Day celebrations, the country faced the challenge of forming a leadership comprising its citizens. Manhik Manaog lectured representatives from various parts of the country about the rudiments of democracy. He explained the political system by interpreting the quote "Democracy is of the people, for the people, and by the people."
With "of the people," Manhik Manaog meant people who, like him, are intelligent (or cunning) enough. He changed "for the people" into "POOR the people." Now comes the "by the people" part: Manhik Manaog replaced "by" with "BUY."
Democracy, essentially in Manhik Manaog's words, is buying the poor people so intelligent (or cunning) officials like him will remain in power.
Meanwhile, Juan Tamad is being hounded by his debtors. In order to pay his debts, the debtors convinced Juan to run in the elections as Tong-ressman. They believe that if Juan wins, he would be able to pay his debts.
Several other themes are reflected in a funny, darkly humorous manner. Guns, goons and gold are still the devices used by the crooked politicians to perpetuate themselves in power. In every election cycle, this kind of politicians is repeatedly elected by the people - perhaps out of fear and the lack of initiative to elevate standards.
You will laugh at the manner the movie depicts red tape, corruption and government inefficiency. You will lament that these problems still hinder the path to progress all Filipinos aspire for.
The open-ended ending means that the story is still unfinished. It led me to the thinking that generations of new characters are experiencing and will experience the same chapter of the said maladies. There is still no happy ending in sight to the flawed chapter.
While browsing YouTube to watch classic Filipino movies, Matang Lawin (Tagalog: Hawk Eyes) caught my interest. I checked to find out whether this movie is connected to Matanglawin, an educational program hosted by Kim Atienza.
Matang Lawin turned out to be a 1979 action drama flick starring Ramon Revilla. However, my focus for now is not about the plot but about the similarly titled theme song written by Snaffu Rigor and performed by Mar-Vic.
Mar-Vic is none other than actor and comedian Vic Sotto, whose full given name is Marvic Valentin. Decades before establishing his popularity and bankability as Bossing and Enteng Kabisote, Vic Sotto started a career as a musician. He also used to be the lead vocalist of the funk rock band VST & Company.
The theme song has been playing back continually through my mind for a long time, so I am sharing the original Tagalog lyrics and my English translation"
Mahirap maging totoo, ang mabuhay nang tama't wasto Dahil sa pag-api't pagtukso, kasalana'y 'di maiwasan Malinis man ang mithiin, naghahari pa rin dilim Mapait ang siyang kabayaran, kung katuwira'y 'di pagbibigyan
Ang buhay sa lupa, sadyang saglit lamang Sa bawat kapalaran, may sawi at mapalad May sakim sa kapwa, may talim ang dusa Sa mata ng lawin, panganib ay 'di lihim
[Interlude]
Malinis man ang mithiin, naghahari pa rin dilim Mapait ang siyang kabayaran, kung katuwira'y di pagbibigyan Mahirap man na tanggapin, kabigua'y may lunas pa rin
May pag-asa sa nagdurusa, hatol sa pagsamantala (2x)
ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
It's hard to be true, to live properly
Because of oppression and temptation, sin cannot be avoided
Even if the goal is pure, darkness still reigns
The reward might be bitter, if the truth is not given way
Life on earth is indeed only for a moment
In every fate, there are ill-fated and fortunate ones
There is the greedy toward others, suffering has a blade
In the eyes of a hawk, danger is not a secret
[Interlude]
Even if the goal is pure, darkness still reigns
The reward will be bitter, if the truth is not given way
It's hard to accept, but there is still a remedy
There is hope for the afflicted, judgment for exploitation (2x)
At least 12 Filipino movies were released in theaters in March 1995. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.
Kahit Butas ng Karayom Papasukin Ko…
Kandungan
Isang Kahig … Tatlong Tuka: Mommy Ka Na, Daddy Ka Pa
Costales
Tapang sa Tapang
Silakbo
Matira ang Matibay
P're Hanggang Sa Huli!
Sa Ngalan ng Pag-Ibig
Kahit Ako'y Tupang Itim
Barkada: Walang Atrasan!
Ipaglaban Mo!
Details of each mentioned title follow.
Kahit Butas ng Karayom ... Papasukin Ko (Tagalog: Even the Hole of a Needle ... I Will Enter)
Original Release Date: March 01, 1995
Production Company: Libran Films
MAIN CAST
Fernando Poe Jr....Sgt. Daniel Torres
Bing Loyzaga...Rina
Paquito Diaz...Martin
Roy Alvarez...Halim
Lito Legaspi...Lt. Benedicto
Bing Davao ... Jake
Caridad Sanchez...Tinay
Sunshine Dizon...Teresa
Subas Herrero...Jacinto Carreon
Luis Gonzales...Gen. Amador de Guzman
SELECTED CREW
Direction... Ronwaldo Reyes and Wilfredo 'Willy' Milan
Screenplay...Manny Palo and Eddie Romero
Cinematography...Ver P. Reyes
Production Design...Doni Gonzales
Editing...Augusto Salvador and Rene Tala
Musical Direction...Jaime Fabregas
Executive Producer...Pat C. Alviz
NOTES:
*** Won for Best Direction at the 1996 ceremony of the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences Awards.
*** Kahit Butas ng Karayom ... Papasukin Ko is set in Zamboanga. In 1966, Fernando Poe Jr.'s FPJ Productions released a movie titled Zamboanga.
Kandungan (Tagalog: Lap)
Original Release Date: March 01, 1995
Production Company: Seiko Films
MAIN CAST
Rosanna Roces...Rosita
Gardo Versoza...Julio
Tonton Gutierrez...Monchito
Lovely Rivero...Cynthia
SELECTED CREW
Direction and Screenplay...Mauro Gia Samonte
Cinematography...Felizardo Bailen
Production Design...Nono Garcia Nebres
Editing...Ferren Salumbides
Musical Direction...Benny Medina
Executive Producer...Robbie Tan
NOTE:
*** First of the two movie collaborations between Rosanna Roces and Gardo Versoza for 1995. The other one is Kirot 2.
Isang Kahig … Tatlong Tuka: Mommy Ka Na, Daddy Ka Pa (Tagalog: One Scratch ... Three Pecks: You Are a Mother, You Are a Father as Well)
Original Release Date: March 08, 1995
Production Company: M-Zet Films and Mahogany Pictures
MAIN CAST
Vic Sotto...Victor
Dang Cecilio...Lourdes
Aiza Seguerra... Aiza
Charito Solis...Señora Chayong
Ruby Rodriguez...Cathy
Rez Cortez...Kidnapper
Candy Pangilinan...June
Larry 'Pipoy' Silva... Keanu
Yoyong Martirez...Dodong
Ritchie D'Horsie... Reeves
Berting Labra...Badong (Victor's father-in-law)
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Jun Aristorenas
Screenplay...Bibeth Orteza
Cinematography...Max de la Peña
Production Design...Cesar 'Jojo' Magno
Editing...Nonoy Santillan
Musical Direction...Homer Flores
Executive Producers... Marvic C. Sotto and Victor Villegas
NOTES:
*** The title is a variation of the idiom 'isang kahig, isang tuka' (Tagalog: one scratch, one peck). The idiom is derived from the manner chickens search for food on the ground. It also signifies how the marginalized live hand-to-mouth in order to survive.
In the movie, single parent Victor (one scratch) earns just enough to support his three children (three pecks): Aiza, Nika, and Aya.
***In a sequence, Victor talks to Aiza after he got laid off from his job. Assuring that he will find ways to support his children, Victor shared to his daughter a quote that continues to resonate, "Kapag ikaw ay ipinanganak na mahirap, hindi mo kasalanan. Pero kapag namatay ka nang mahirap, kasalanan mo." (Tagalog: "If you are born poor, it’s not your mistake. But if you die poor, it’s your mistake.")
*** Ozone Disco Club was acknowledged in the end credits. A year later, a fire broke out inside Ozone Disco. Leaving at least 162 people dead, the disaster is acknowledged as the worst fire in Philippine history.
Costales
Original Release Date: March 08, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films
MAIN CAST
Edu Manzano...Capt. Daniel Costales
Chuck Perez...Benito
Monsour Del Rosario...Don Peter Cortez
Anthony Alonzo...Capt. Tony Atienza
Sunshine Cruz...Minda Costales
Gretchen Barretto...Beth
Robert Arevalo...Col. Ruiz
Odette Khan...Ms. Gordo
Nonie Buencamino...Lt. David
Ronnie Lazaro...Kidnapper
Jess Lapid Jr....Head of Kidnappers
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Jose N. Carreon and Toto Natividad
Story...Dave Veridiano
Screenplay...Amado Lacuesta and Henry Nadong
Cinematography...Rey De Leon
Production Design...Randy Gamier and Boyet Ocampo
Editing...Rogelio Salvador
Musical Direction...Jaime Fabregas
Executive Producer... Lily Y. Monteverde
NOTE:
*** As of March 2025, one of the five movies in which Edu Manzano is credited as a producer: supervising producer in 1992's Alyas Boy Kano (Tagalog: Alias American Boy) and 1993's Lt. Madarang: Iginuhit sa Dugo (Tagalog: Drawn with Blood); line producer in 1994's Ismael Zacarias, 1995's Costales, and 1996's Sa Kamay ng Batas (Tagalog: In the Hand of Law).
Silakbo (Tagalog: Frenzy)
Original Release Date: March 15, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films
MAIN CAST
Alice Dixson...Barbara 'Bang' Briones
Anjanette Abayari...Tin Roman
Marjorie Barretto...Cherry Acosta
Joko Diaz...Rudy
Cesar Montano...Andy Gil
Robert Arevalo...Greg Macaspac
Rey Avellana...David Natividad
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Joel C. Lamangan
Story and Screenplay...Roy Iglesias
Cinematography...George Tutanes
Production Design...Manny Morfe
Editing...Edgardo Vinarao
Musical Direction...Willy Cruz
Executive Producer... Vic Del Rosario Jr.
Tapang sa Tapang (Tagalog: Courage to Courage)
Original Release Date: March 15, 1995
Production Company: Star Cinema
MAIN CAST
Lito Lapid...Dante Parcon
Cynthia Luster...Jane Nakamoto
Jess Lapid Jr....Kupido
Mansueto Velasco...Ador
Efren Reyes Jr....Jeffrey Chan
Bob Soler...Albert
Dick Israel...Rodson
Ruel Vernal...Lleva
Philip Gamboa...Mendoza
Ernie Forte...Forte
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Francis 'Jun' Posadas
Story and Screenplay...Jerry O. Tirazona
Screenplay...Humilde 'Meek' Roxas
Cinematography...Vic Anao
Production Design...Noel Luna
Editing...Tony Sy
Musical Direction...Mon Del Rosario
Executive Producer...Lily Y. Monteverde and Charo Santos-Concio
NOTE:
*** Originally titled Laban Kung Laban (Tagalog: Opposed If Opposed), but there was already a similarly titled action-drama film that was released in 1986.
*** Mansueto 'Onyok' Velasco, a boxing gold medalist at the 1994 Asian Games, was introduced in this movie.
Matira ang Matibay (Tagalog: The Strong Survive)
Original Release Date: March 15, 1995
Production Company: Omni Films International
MAIN CAST
Ronnie Ricketts...Boyet
Cynthia Khan...Mai Lei
Melanie Marquez...Natasia
Anthony Alonzo...Gang Boss
Philip Ko...Natasia
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Philip Ko, Teddy Chua, and Artemio Marquez
Story and Screenplay...Mike Cassey and Rey Atalia
Cinematography...Eduardo 'Baby' Cabrales
Editing...Francis J. Vinarao
Musical Direction...Ringgo Marquez
Executive Producers...Frederick Timothy Yui Dee and Mimilanie M. Dee
P're Hanggang Sa Huli! (Tagalog: Buddy Until the End!)
Original Release Date: March 22, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films
MAIN CAST
Robin Padilla...Brando del Valle
Andrew E....Cooper Guerrero
Mat Ranillo III...De Joya
Daniel Fernando...Waldo
Donita Rose...Andrea
Angelu De Leon...Jing Jing
Charlene Gonzales...Jessica
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Ricardo 'Bebong' Osorio
Story...Mario Cariño
Screenplay...Robinhood Padilla and Roger Fuentebella
Cinematography...Joe Batac and Caloy Salcedo
Production Design...Judy Lou De Pio
Editing...Rene Tala
Executive Producer...Vic Del Rosario Jr.
Sa Ngalan ng Pag-Ibig (Tagalog: In the Name of Love)
Original Release Date: March 22, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films
MAIN CAST
Christopher De Leon...Spanky
Lorna Tolentino...Mae
Alma Concepcion...Donna
Chuck Perez...Arman
Lito Pimentel...Security Guard - Condominium
Daniel Figueroa...Dante
Luz Valdez...Mrs. Moran / Office Secretary
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Maryo J. Delos Reyes
Screenplay...Raquel Villavicencio and Wali Ching
Cinematography...Charlie Peralta
Production Design...Benjie De Guzman
Editing...George Jarlego
Musical Direction...Jimmy Fabregas
Executive Producer...Lily Y. Monteverde
NOTE:
*** TAGLINE: What God has put together, let no other woman set apart.
Kahit Ako'y Tupang Itim (Tagalog: Even If I Am a Black Sheep)
Original Release Date: March 22, 1995
Production Company: El Niño Films
MAIN CAST
John Regala...Jun Esteban
Cherry Pie Picache...Mike
Robert Arevalo...Roberto
Dan Fernandez...Gardo
Liza Lorena...Eliza
Melissa Mendez...Elvira
Beverly Vergel... Doctora
Sylvia Sanchez ... Vanessa Roldan
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Cesar SB Abella
Screenplay...Humilde 'Meek' Roxas
Cinematography...Alfonso Alvarez
Editing...Tony Sy
Musical Direction...Rey Ramos
NOTE:
*** In a scene, Jun's sidekicks mentioned the titles of a few Filipino action movies upon seeing Mike wearing a dress: Masahol Pa sa Hayop, Iukit Mo sa Bala, and Kahit Butas ng Karayom ... Papasukin Ko.
Barkada: Walang Atrasan! (Tagalog: Friends: No Retreat!)
Original Release Date: March 29, 1995
Production Company: OctoArts Films
MAIN CAST
Jeric Raval...Guiller
Zoren Legaspi...Alvin
Ogie Alcasid...Miniong
Keempee De Leon...Jojo
Hero Bautista...Carlo
Jan Rivera...Bimbo
Paul Yllana...Paul
Sunshine Cruz...Cindy
Jennifer Mendoza...Kelly
Jenette Fernando...Alex
Lailani Navarro...Lani
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Junn P. Cabreira
Screenplay...Lito Mena
Cinematography...Rudy Diño
Production Design...Do Cadapan
Editing...Segundo Ramos
Musical Direction...Jesse Lasaten
Executive Producer...Orly R. Ilacad
Kapag May Katwiran ... Ipaglaban Mo! The Movie (Tagalog: If It Is Reasonable ... Fight for It!)
Original Release Date: March 29, 1995
Production Company: Star Cinema
MAIN CAST
Chin Chin Gutierrez...Gilda
Sharmaine Arnaiz...Maria
Nida Blanca...Magdalena
Gina Alajar...Atty. Lilia Manalang
Elizabeth Oropesa...Feliza
Ronaldo Valdez...Rosendo
Ricky Davao...Allan
Joel Torre...Daniel
Cris Daluz ... Court Judge
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Marilou Diaz-Abaya
Screenplay...Ricardo Lee
Cinematography...Eduardo Jacinto
Production Design...Merlito 'Len' Santos
Editing...Jess Navarro
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer...Charo Santos-Concio and Lily Y. Monteverde
NOTES:
*** Based on a television public service and advocacy-driven legal drama anthology show hosted by Atty. Jose C. Sison.
*** Known to international audiences as Redeem Her Honor, the movie has two distinct segments. Both segments tackle real-life criminal cases of rape.
Asiong Salonga: Hari ng Tondo, 1950 (Tagalog: King of Tondo) is a 1990 biographical action-drama film that follows the life story of gangster Nicasio 'Asiong' Salonga. Considered as one of the public enemies in the country in the 1940s and 1950s, Salonga led a gang that dominated Tondo. At that time, Tondo was infamously known as Manila's mob district.
Directed by Armando De Guzman Jr., the film is topbilled by George Estregan Jr.. The latter (credited as E.R. Ejercito) also wrote the screenplay, which was based on a story by Amado Pagsanjan. Estregan would play the same role in the 2011 film Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story.
In 1950, the Manila district of Tondo already developed a reputation for crime and poverty. Rival gangs were already asserting their authority over their respective turfs throughout the district, which they consider as a kingdom.
One of them was Asiong Salonga. At that time, he is involved in illegal gambling, smuggling and protection rackets. Asiong was acting as a sort of a godfather in the community. His neighbors approach him for material assistance. He also exercises informal judicial power. Residents who are troubled by theft and other petty crimes ask him for a remedy.
The film introduces Asiong playing a card game against Viray. In an ensuing police raid, the occupants of the gambling den scrambled to evade the law enforcers. Asiong suddenly ran into Domeng, his police officer brother. Domeng urged his younger brother to go home because their mother Maria has been worrying. Asiong has been away for several days.
Within his family, Asiong's brushes with the law always lead to conflict. Cando, their father, harbors disciplinarian ideas that conform to Domeng's. Maria appears to spoil Asiong by tolerating his behavior.
In another encounter, Viray's group held Asiong's. This encounter provided Viray a chance to maul Asiong. Asiong's revenge proved fatal for Viray. His notoriety as a feared gang leader grew. Golem and Pepeng Hapon, the heads of rival gang, took notice of Asiong's ascendance.
Golem challenged Asiong to a gun duel. Asiong mocked Golem by remarking that Golem relies on a gun to muster courage. Golem agreed to Asiong's proposal for them to fight mano-a-mano. Golem lost and offered Asiong a business alliance. Asiong's refusal made Golem resentful. The dispute concerning the areas where they conduct smuggling intensified.
Erning, Tambol, Piring and Ayes Gago are the henchmen of Asiong. Erning appears to be Asiong's closest friend. He received a gun from Asiong as a birthday present. Tambol is Asiong's spotter when the latter conducts shooting practices.
Asiong met and was smitten with Fidela when he and his gang bought bibingka at a stall owned by Luis, her father, and Carmen, her aunt. Learning that Luis had developed an aversion to gang leaders in Tondo, Asiong introduced himself as Pepe Rodriguez.
While on a date, Pepe eventually confessed his real identity to Fidela. The revelation did nothing to change her feelings for him. It was already late at night when Asiong brought Fidela home. Suspecting that something happened between Asiong and Fidela, Luis threatened Asiong with a knife.
Tambol sensed trouble and he addressed Asiong. A shocked Luis realized that the Pepe he knew is the notorious Asiong. Luis asked Asiong if he will marry Fidela.
As he transformed into a family man, Asiong's operations continued to grow. Mellowing a bit, Asiong directed his men to avoid killing people. A portion of the proceeds of these operations went to the poor, so Asiong became Tondo's Robin Hood.
A big robbery conducted by Asiong's gang in Caloocan fueled the ire of Toro, who felt that his turf was breached.
During a visit to a dance hall, Asiong met and wooed the taxi dancer Mely.
Later in the same venue, Banong challenged Asiong to a duel. Humiliated by his loss to Asiong, Banong hurled a grenade at Asiong's gang. Asiong and company survived the attack. Eyes Gago threw a knife that fatally hit Banong's neck.
Mely became Asiong's paramour. She continually tried, but failed, to convince Asiong to turn his back on lawlessness.
Asiong survived an ambush staged by Toro while the former is in a barber shop. The incident killed the barber and Piring. While attempting to avenge Piring's death, Toro escaped. Asiong was caught by the chief of police.
At the city jail, Asiong met Boy Zapata. Boy Zapata was on the process of being transferred to the National Penitentiary. Asiong gained a friend at the city jail.
Meanwhile, Maria died of a heart attack after overhearing a conversation between Domeng and Cando. Domeng had told his father that Asiong will be transferred to the National Penitentiary.
In a clinic at the National Penitentiary, Boy Zapata tried to kill Asiong. Asiong was saved by the co-prisoner friend he met at the city jail. His friend was killed in the process of shielding Asiong against Boy Zapata's knife attacks.
Tambol and Mely then brought the news to Asiong that Maria had died. While working on a quarry, a distraught Asiong escaped to attend the interment of Maria. Asiong was recaptured at the cemetery.
After some time, Asiong was released from the penitentiary. Fidela and Tambol fetched him. As their car left the area, Mely was looking from afar.
Pepeng Hapon found the news of Asiong's release unpleasant. He vowed to stop Asiong for good.
A confrontation between the real wife and the mistress put Asiong in an awkward situation. Meanwhile, Fidela begrudgingly accepted that there are two women in Asiong's life. Mely eventually left Asiong after realizing Fidela's rightful status as Asiong's wife. For the last time, she convinced Asiong to turn a new leaf.
Erning got involved in a robbery against a Tondo resident. Asiong resolved the issue by compelling Erning to return the pieces of jewelry he stole. Asiong then shot Erning on the leg. Golem came to the rescue by bringing Erning to the hospital. He then asked Erning to repay the favor by killing Asiong.
Asiong went home to inform Domeng and Cando of his desire to change his life. He also sought their forgiveness, which was granted. However, their relief and happiness were short-lived because Toro staged an ambush that took the life of Cando.
Asiong was unable to leave a life of crime because he avenged Cando's death by killing Toro. Pepeng Hapon sought Asiong, but killed Tambol and other members of Asiong's gang instead. This led to a series of murders against his enemies, including Pepeng Hapon. Asiong is again a target of the police.
Domeng resigned from the police force because of its failure to help them when Cando was killed. He also intended to disinhibit himself from the efforts of the police to get Asiong.
Fidela came to the painful decision of leaving Asiong, albeit for the meantime, because the situation has become unsafe for their two children. Asiong then went to the church and prayed for forgiveness. After meditating on changing his life, Asiong left his gun on the pew. He then put his hat on the head of a child he saw outside the church.
Asiong was alone at a sari-sari store, and having a drink. Golem, accompanied by Erning, arrived and purportedly offered a toast to celebrate Asiong's upcoming birthday.
Erning went at the back of Asiong. Asiong asked Erning about the whereabouts of the gun that he gave to Erning. Asiong said he thought Erning had sold the gun. Erning then said that the gun is still with him because he needs it.
Asiong then asked Erning to get something more to drink. With Golem's gesture, Erning then shot Asiong at the back of head. Feeling remorseful, Erning remembered Asiong's motto, "Mas masarap mamatay sa kamay ng kaaway, kaysa sa kamay ng kaibigan." (It is better do die in the hands of anenemy, than in the hands of a friend.)
Police officers then arrived at the scene and gunned down Asiong's killers.
MAIN CAST
George Estregan Jr...Asiong Salonga
Baldo Marro...Pepeng Hapon
Orestes Ojeda...Domeng Salonga
Val Iglesias...Toro
Dick Israel...Golem
Maita Sanchez...Fidela
Honey Policarpio...Mely
Danny Riel...Erning
Danny Labra…Ayes Gago
Rudy Meyer…Tambol
Joey Galvez…Luis
Boy Ranay…Banong
Robert Talby…Chief of Police
SELECTED CREW
Direction ...Armando De Guzman Jr.
Story ...Amado Pagsanjan
Screenplay...E.R. Ejercito
Editing...Rodel Capule
Musical Direction...Rey Valera
Executive Producer... Erlinda T. Burayag and Leona Santos Vda. de Tolentino
Today is the fortieth anniversary of the theatrical release of Bituing Walang Ningning (Tagalog: A Star Without Shine), a 1985 drama musical film directed by Emmanuel Borlaza from a komiks serial written by Nerissa G. Cabral and adapted into a screenplay by Orlando R. Nadres.
Screen Capture: Viva Films
Numerous aspects of the movie have gained iconic places in Filipino popular culture. One blog post is not enough to cover these aspects, so I will focus for now on three of those:
1. Sampaguita and fandom 2. The theme song and food 3. "You are nothing but a second-rate, trying hard copycat!"
WARNING: For those who have not watched the movie, you will encounter spoilers as you read further.
SAMPAGUITA AND FANDOM
Sampaguita, the national flower of the Philippines, is referenced throughout the movie, which is about the fan-idol dynamic. Meanwhile, the flower is well-known for its use in religious practices. In this country, fans adore their celebrity idols to god-like levels. The sampaguita appears to function as a mediator between the fan, Dorina Pineda (portrayed by Sharon Cuneta), and her idol, Lavinia Arguelles (portrayed by Cherie Gil).
The opening scene is set in a sampaguita plantation where the pre-stardom Dorina works. While gathering the flowers, Dorina listens to a radio broadcast in which Lavinia, her idol, sings "I Just Called to Say I Love You."
Prior to her own rise to fame as a singer, Dorina also sold sampaguita garlands on the streets. Instead of buying food, Dorina prefers spending her earnings on fan magazines that feature Lavinia. The economic benefit of sampaguita allows the fan to buy reading materials, which seem to give her a semblance of nearness to her idol.
Further demonstrating her adoration for her idol, Dorina places a sampaguita garland around Lavinia's neck in two pivotal scenes in the movie. One of these scenes is set during Lavinia's guesting in German Moreno's GMA Supershow. Dorina sneaked from the audience seating area to the stage. She placed the garland around the neck of a visibly annoyed Lavinia, who once more was singing "I Just Called to Say I Love You."
Screen Capture: Viva Films
In other instances, Dorina attempted to hand over the garland. One night, she fell asleep waiting on the gate of Lavinia's home. Upon the arrival of Lavinia's car, Dorina was awakened and got the opportunity to hand over the garland. Lavinia pretended to be delighted with Dorina's present. Moments later and behind Dorina's back, Lavinia expressed her disgust.
On the day of Lavinia's departure for a concert tour in the U.S., Dorina tried to give her a garland as a send-off present. Lavinia's maid stopped Dorina at the same gate. Dorina just asked the maid to give the garland to Lavinia. Lavinia then scolded the maid, retorting that she was allergic to the flowers. The maid promptly complied with Lavinia's instruction to wear the garland.
When Lavinia returned to the country, Dorina went to the airport and brought another garland with her as a welcome present for her idol. However, Dorina came too late and just looked at her idol from afar. Nico Escobar, her soon-to-become manager and boyfriend, was also there. They seem to have found a common ground in relation to Lavinia: Nico's new status as Lavinia's ex-boyfriend appears to have brought him to the same level as Dorina: Nico and Dorina are now Lavinia's mere fans.
In the showdown concert toward the movie's finale, Dorina conceded to Lavinia as "the one and only superstar." Right before doing this gesture of adulation, Dorina had announced that she is not fit to be a celebrity. She opted to live a quiet, normal life with her beloved Nico.
Screen Capture: Viva Films
Interestingly, Sampaguita Recording Studio is acknowledged in the end credits. I presume that the recording-session scenes in the movie were shot in the studio. As of this moment, it is still not clear to yours truly if the studio is connected to Sampaguita Pictures.
Sampaguita Pictures was a film production company that was established in 1937. It produced hundreds of movies that form a part of the first Golden Age of Philippine cinema in the 1950s. Many of these movies were topbilled by screen performers who gained millions of fans.
THE THEME SONG AND FOOD
The lyrics of the eponymous theme song include a line that became a reference to the act of wrapping and taking home food from parties and other special gatherings. These lines are "Balutin mo ako sa liwanag ng iyong pagmamahal" (Tagalog: Wrap me in the light of your love).
Singer-actress Sharon Cuneta, who plays Dorina in the movie, popularized the song. The Tagalog slang verb mag-Sharon (to Sharon) was coined by netizens to refer to the said food-related act.
On a personal note, I am one of those who wrap and take home food from special gatherings as long as the host allows the guests to do so. I always look forward to free food to save money at a time of rising inflation.
My stack of plastic food containers
Food tastes better to me when received at zero cost. However, there are times that there is no more food to wrap and take home. Interestingly, the character name Dorina means 'gift.' I am always grateful for free food which I consider as a gift.
Speaking of food and inflation (again), there is a scene that provides viewers clues about how much things cost in 1985. Early into the movie, a vendor at the Aurora Market told Dorina that a dalanghita costs two pesos each. A cantaloupe costs 15 pesos each (Now it is at least 80 pesos). A fan magazine costs five to six pesos.
"YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A SECOND-RATE, TRYING HARD COPYCAT!"
The line, "You are nothing but a second-rate, trying hard copycat!" was spoken by Lavinia to Dorina during an event when the ZoNi Recording Company launched the latter's album.
Dorina had just opened the event with a rendition of "I Just Called to Say I Love You." She then asked Lavinia, a guest of honor, whether she liked her performance. Lavinia responded with the following lines:
"Sinira mo ang kanta. Binaboy mo. Baliw ang nagsasabing isinilang na ang aking karibal. You'll never make it." (Tagalog: You ruined the song. You made it dirty. Fools are the ones saying that my rival has been born.)
Lavinia then stood up, uttered the iconic line, and splashed a glass of white wine (or water?) on Dorina's face, who was left stunned.
Several observers in the Filipino entertainment industry believe that the scene established Cherie Gil as one of the leading screen villainesses. The scene was also the subject of adaptations on television and stage.
In the 1980s, I remember a parody of this scene in the IBC-13 sketch program TODAS: Television's Outrageously Delightful All-Star Show. I cannot recall the actors in the said parody. One detail that I clearly remember is a fountain that was detached by Lavinia from the floor to splash water on Dorina's face.
CLOSING INSIGHTS
In the two or three instances that I have viewed the movie, I have gathered insights that I just consolidated in this post. I am not sure if I will watch the movie again, but I think there will be future posts about other aspects of this movie. Another thing I am sure of is that the movie will remain ingrained in the firmament of Filipino pop culture for generations to come.
At least 11 Filipino movies were released in theaters in February 1995. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.
Basta't Kasama Kita
Escobar: Walang Sasantuhin
Kapwa Kumakasa
Kahit Harangan ng Bala
The Lilian Velez Story: "Till Death Do Us Part"
Junior Police: Crimebusters
Deadly Brothers
Araw-Araw, Gabi-Gabi
Batangueño Kabitenyo: 'Gusto Kong Bumaet Pero Di Ko Magawa!'
Bocaue Pagoda Tragedy
Iligpit si Bobby Ortega! Markang Bungo 2
Details of each mentioned title follow.
Basta't Kasama Kita (Tagalog: As Long as We Are Together)
Original Release Date: February 01, 1995
Production Company: Star Cinema Productions
MAIN CAST
Aga Muhlach...Alex
Dayanara Torres...Princess Marinella of Bavaria / Ella
Paolo Contis...Paolo
Smokey Manaloto...Brix
Ruby Rodriguez...Sara
Heather Rasch...Ms. Thompson
SELECTED CREW
Direction ...Rory B. Quintos
Screenplay... Jerry Lopez Sineneng, Mel Mendoza-Del Rosario, Don Cuaresma, and Olivia M. Lamasan
Cinematography...Joe Batac Jr.
Production Design...Nuel Naval
Editing...Jess Navarro
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producers...Lily Y. Monteverde and Charo Santos-Concio
NOTES:
*** Aside from being the first Filipino movie starring Miss Universe 1993 Dayanara Torres, Basta't Kasama Kita is the directorial debut of Rory B. Quintos.
*** The plot is similar to that of the 1953 film Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
*** Cathy Garcia-Sampana worked as an assistant director for this movie. She also plays the role of a chambermaid in the hotel where Princess Marinella checked in.
Escobar: Walang Sasantuhin (Tagalog: Escobar: No One Will Be Spared)
Original Release Date: February 01, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films
MAIN CAST
Lito Lapid...Capt. Salvador Escobar
Chin Chin Gutierrez...Capt. Norma Lopez
Monsour Del Rosario...Lt. Escudero
Bernard Bonnin...Col. Vizconde
Andy Poe...Governor Sebastian
Jess Lapid Jr....Sgt. Lakay
Al Tantay...Sgt. Advincula
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Efren C. Piñon
Story and Screenplay...Tony Tacorda
Cinematography...Romulo Araojo, Rey De Leon, and Rey Lapid
Production Design...Jon Portugal, Nesty Ramirez, & Sonny Valencia
Editing...Rogelio Salvador
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer...Lily Y. Monteverde
NOTE:
*** As of February 2025, the only movie collaboration between Lito Lapid and Chin Chin Gutierrez.
Kapwa Kumakasa (Tagalog: Both Fighting)
Original Release Date: February 01, 1995
Production Companies: Movie Master International Films and Harvest Films International
MAIN CAST
Michael Ryan...Chiang Ho-Wah
Roy Cheung...Dick
Edu Manzano...Edu
Lily Lee...Jenny
Joel Torre...Billy
Gabriel Romulo...Dick's Thug 'Panther'
Subas Herrero...Mr. Cardoza
SELECTED CREW
Direction ...Andrew Kam and Johnny Wood
Screenplay...Fung Chow
Cinematography...Pak Hung Chim and Roger Estrada
Production Design...Kwok-Leung Lee and Max Paglinawan
Editing...Kan-Sing Chan
Musical Direction...Hoi-Kam Lee and Marco Wan
Executive Producer...Luis Sy and Aaron Ngo
NOTES:
*** According to Kung Fu Fandom, there is dispute whether the movie is a Hong Kong production, a Filipino production or a co-production.
*** Released in Hong Kong the previous year as Asian Cop: High Voltage. Lead star Donnie Yen was eventually credited as Michael Ryan in the Philippine release.
Kahit Harangan ng Bala (Tagalog: Even If Hindered by Bullets)
Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Company: Regal Films
MAIN CAST
Romnick Sarmenta...Bobbit Zaragosa
Sunshine Cruz...Jojo
Tirso Cruz III...Amador Almonte
George Estregan Jr....Jigo Almonte
Dan Alvaro...Ramon Zaragosa
Boots Anson-Roa...Aling Cedes
Paquito Diaz...Major Quintos
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Joey Del Rosario
Story and Screenplay...Jojo M. Lapus
Cinematography...Edmund Cupcupin and Isagani Sioson
Production Design...Monching Escobar
Editing...Joe Solo
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer...Lily Y. Monteverde
NOTE:
*** The first movie collaboration between Romnick Sarmenta and Sunshine Cruz. In 2023, they were cast in the television series Unbreak My Heart.
The Lilian Velez Story: "Till Death Do Us Part"
Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Companies: Viva Films and Golden Lions Films Productions Inc.
MAIN CAST
Sharon Cuneta...Lilian Velez
Cesar Montano...Narding Anzures
Joel Torre...Joe Climaco
Shannen Torres...Narding's Girlfriend
Gina Alajar...Yaya Nene
Donita Rose...Pacita
Boots Anson Roa ... Rosa Aguirre
Robert Arevalo ... Miguel Anzures
Charina Scott...Vivian Velez
Tony Carreon ... Manuel P. Velez
Perla Bautista ... Concepcion Cananea
Flora Gasser ... Narcisa de Leon
Philip Gamboa ... Richard Abelardo
SELECTED CREW
Direction, Story, and Screenplay...Carlo J. Caparas
Story and Screenplay...Tony Calvento
Cinematography...Ernesto 'Boy' Dominguez
Production Design...Melchor Defensor
Editing...Abelardo 'Dho' Hulleza
Musical Direction...Demet Velasquez
Executive Producer...Vic Del Rosario, Carlo J. Caparas, and Donna Villa
NOTES:
*** About a decade before this movie was released, Sharon Cuneta and Joel Torre worked together in the film Bituing Walang Ningning (Tagalog: A Star Without Shine). In the said 1985 film, Sharon Cuneta plays the role of singer Dorina Pineda. Joel Torre plays the role of composer Garry Diaz.
In The Lilian Velez Story, Sharon Cuneta plays the role of the eponymous singer-actress. Joel Torre portrays Joe Climaco, the composer husband of Lilian Velez.
*** Joe Climaco's son, Sammy Climaco, was the musical director of Okey Sha!, a 1980s musical TV sitcom starring Sharon Cuneta. In this series, Sharon Cuneta plays the role of music student Sha Mismo. Tony Carrion is Antonino Mismo.
In The Lilian Velez Story, Sharon Cuneta and Tony Carrion are daughter and father.
*** TAGLINE: Caught in the deatly web of THE ETERNAL TRIANGLE that devoured everything including themselves!
Junior Police: Crimebusters
Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Company: Golden Harvest Unlimited
MAIN CAST
Sunshine Cruz...Imelda
Dan Alvaro...Lt. Enrile
Larry Silva...Pipoy
IC Mendoza...Bitoy
Lady Lee ... Melody
Flora Gasser...Lola Inday
Ramon Christopher...Brando
Jeffrey Santos...Pat. Ronaldo
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Artemio Marquez
Story and Screenplay...Artemio Marquez, Antonio Fajardo, and Deo Derecto
Cinematography...Gener Buenaseda
Production Design...Cesar Jose
Editing...Rene Tala
Musical Direction...Ringgo Marquez
Executive Producer...Richard Goldwyn Monteverde and Ronald Stephen Monteverde
NOTE:
*** Co-producer Richard Goldwyn Monteverde is also an accomplished basketball coach. For instance, he has led the University of the Philippines men's senior team to the UAAP Championship in 2021 and 2024.
Deadly Brothers
Original Release Date: February 08, 1995
Production Company: Pacific Films
MAIN CAST
John Regala...Badong
Raul Zaragosa...Nilo
Tony Ferrer...Ka Anton
Nida Blanca...Brgy. Chairwoman
Jean Garcia...Cel
Rina Reyes...Rina
Miguel Rodriguez...Zaldong Porma
Jess Lapid Jr....Kardo
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Leonardo L. Garcia
Story and Screenplay...Jojo Lapuz
Cinematography...Jun Dalawis
Production Design...Boyet Cocjin
Editing...Rene Tala
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer...[information to be provided upon availability]
Araw-araw, Gabi-gabi (Tagalog: Every Day, Every Night)
Original Release Date: February 14, 1995
Production Company: MAQ Productions
MAIN CAST
Aiko Melendez...Teresa
Janice De Belen...Alma
John Estrada...Teddy
Gloria Romero...Josefa
Cherry Pie Picache...Doreen
Mark Anthony Fernandez...Raffy
Jomari Yllana...Lawrence
Jimi Melendez...Basilio
Patrick Garcia...Jun-Jun
CJ Ramos...Abet
SELECTED CREW
Direction, Story, and Screenplay ...Jose Javier Reyes
Cinematography...Marissa Floirendo
Production Design... Edel Templonuevo
Editing...George Jarlego
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producers... Marie Sherida Monteverde and Douglas Quijano
Batangueño Kabitenyo: 'Gusto Kong Bumaet Pero Di Ko Magawa!' (Tagalog: Batangueño Kabitenyo: 'I Want to Become Nice, but I Cannot!')
Original Release Date: February 14, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films
MAIN CAST
Leo Martinez...Magno
Anjanette Abayari...Ester
Dindi Gallardo...Yvonne
Ramon Christopher...Albert
Raffy Rodriguez...Peter
Ana Matti...Carol
Glydel Mercado...Gunding
Marianne Artadi...Amazon
Jessica Rodriguez...Amazon Leader
Michelle Parton...Joy
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Felix Dalay
Story and Screenplay... Felix Dalay and Ely Matawaran
Cinematography... Ramon Marcelino
Musical Direction...Ricky Del Rosario
Executive Producer...Vic Del Rosario Jr.
NOTE:
*** Lead actor Leo Martinez is a native of the province of Batangas.
*** Several months later, Ana Matti was reintroduced as Amanda Page in the film Gayuma (Tagalog: Love Potion).
Bocaue Pagoda Tragedy
Original Release Date: February 14, 1995
Production Company: Seiko Films
MAIN CAST
Charito Solis...Melba
Robert Arevalo...Fr. Martinez
Chanda Romero...Belen
Joel Torre...Fr. Joe
Maricel Laxa...Laura
Gardo Versoza...Gaudi
Romnick Sarmenta...Berting
Isko Moreno...Jun Jun
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Maria Saret
Screenplay...Amado Lacuesta Jr. and Salvador Royales
Cinematography...Sergio Lobo
Production Design...Rei Nicolas
Editing...Ferren Salumbides
Musical Direction...Rey Magtoto
Executive Producer...Robbie Tan
NOTES:
*** The fatal accident occurred on July 2, 1993, during an annual festival held in the Bocaue, a town in the province of Bulacan. The festival involves a decorated pagoda on top of a barge surrounded by small boats accompanying it. A replica of the Holy Cross of Wawa is placed atop the pagoda.
According to numerous witnesses, a flying skyrocket toward the pagoda forced the devout passengers to move to one side of the barge. The barge was tilted by the concentrated weight of the passengers. As they heard the noise of crackling timber, the passengers panicked. The structural collapse of the pagoda collapsed and gradually sank to the bed of the Bocaue River.
In the movie, a heated argument escalated between a devotee and a festival organizer. In the ensuing fistfight, an oil lamp was shoved and set the floor ablaze. The flames caused the passengers to panic.
Iligpit si Bobby Ortega! Markang Bungo 2 (Tagalog: Kill Bobby Ortega! Mark of Skull 2)
Original Release Date: February 22, 1995
Production Company: Viva Films
MAIN CAST
Rudy Fernandez...Bobby Ortega
Charlene Gonzales...Karla
Anthony Alonzo...Lando
Bing Loyzaga...Marissa
Bembol Roco...Martin Pineda
Lito Legaspi...Col. Ordoñez
Lito Garcia...Col. Miranda
SELECTED CREW
Direction...Eddie Rodriguez
Story and Screenplay...Humilde 'Meek' Roxas, Roger Fuentebella, and Eddie Rodriguez
Cinematography...Ricardo Herrera
Production Design...Melchor Defensor
Editing...Renato De Leon
Musical Direction...Nonong Buencamino
Executive Producer...Vic Del Rosario Jr.
NOTE:
*** A sequel to the 1991 biopic Markang Bungo: The Bobby Ortega Story. The titular military officer led an anti-crime unit having an insignia that depicts a bungo (Tagalog: skull).
