Vilma Santos, 'star for all seasons', nominated National Artist

MANILA, Philippines — Aktor PH (League of Filipino Actors), an organization dedicated to promoting excellence and camaraderie within the showbiz community, nominated "Star for All Seasons" Vilma Santos for the National Artist award.

Having started as a child actress at the age of 9 in "Trudis Liit" (1963), the same movie that earned her the first Famas Best Child Actress Award, Santos' nomination recognizes her significant contributions to Philippine cinema over six decades.

Aktor PH highlights Santos' legacy, exceptional versatility, and impact on Filipino arts and culture, making her a strong candidate for this prestigious honor.

Among the current board of directors of Aktor PH include actors Dingdong Dantes, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Iza Calzado, Mylene Dizon, Cherry Pie Picache, Agot Isidro, and Piolo Pascual. Founded at the height of the pandemic in May 2020, Aktor PH aims to serve as a mouthpiece to address the issues and problems troubling entertainment industry workers.

According to the group's statement, as released by Pep.ph's Jojo Gabinete, here are the reasons for Santos' nomination:

Unparalleled versatility. Santos has played an extensive range of characters, showcasing her exceptional acting prowess. From iconic roles such as Darna and Dyesebel to complex portrayals like a socially conscious nun ("Sister Stella L," 1984), a burlesque star ("Burlesk Queen," 1977), an Aids and a terminally ill patient ("Because I Love You: The Dolzura Cortez Story," 1992, and "Pahiram ng Isang Umaga," 1989), and a rape survivor ("Rubia Servios," 1978), her versatility is truly unmatched.

Award-winning performances. Santos has won numerous acting awards from prestigious local and international bodies, including Gawad Urian, FAMAS, Catholic Mass Media, the Metro Manila Film Festival, PMPC Star Awards, and international film festivals in Brussels and Dhaka, making her the most awarded actress in Philippine cinema history.

Cultural impact: enduring relevance. She has remained a significant figure in Philippine cinema, continuously leading in critically acclaimed films even as she turned 70. Widely-known as the longest reigning movie queen of Philippine Cinema, Santos' ability to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry is a testament to her talent and dedication.

Her films have had a lasting impact on popular culture, addressing social issues and contributing to national discourse. Movies like "Dekada '70" and "Bata Bata Paano Ka Ginawa?" have sparked important conversations on societal topics.

Public service: transition to politics. Beyond her film career, Santos has made significant contributions as a public servant. She has served with distinction as mayor, governor, and congresswoman, showing a deep commitment to her constituents.

Her exemplary public service earned her the prestigious Presidential Lingkod Bayan award, the highest honor for a public servant in the Philippines. This recognition highlights that Santos is more than just a celebrated actress; she understands that her influence and status can be powerful catalysts for positive change.

Her transition from movie star to public servant underscores her dedication to using her platform to serve and uplift her fellow citizens, proving that her talents extend far beyond the screen.

Champion for women. Many of her roles depict strong, empowered women, reflecting her advocacy for women's rights and empowerment. Santos' portrayal of resilient, determined female characters has inspired countless viewers.

Legacy: advocate for quality and excellence. Santos' commitment to excellence in both commercial and art films has set a benchmark in the industry. Her performances are marked by exceptional intelligence, sincerity, and brilliance, consistently raising the bar for cinematic artistry. With a relentless drive to reinvent herself, she ensures that each role she undertakes is fresh, impactful, and memorable.

Inspiration to peers. Santos is widely regarded as a role model within the entertainment industry. Her extraordinary talent and unwavering professionalism set a benchmark for both veteran actors and newcomers alike. She embodies the gold standard in acting prowess and stands as a revered industry icon, continuously inspiring her peers and the next generation of thespians.

The Order of National Artists (ONA), established in 1972, recognizes Filipinos who have made significant contributions to Philippine arts and letters. The award is given every four years across seven categories: Music, Dance, Theater, Contemporary Arts, Literature, Film and Broadcasting/Broadcast Arts, and Architecture, Design, and Allied Arts.

The next group of National Artists will be announced in 2026. If awarded, Santos would be recognized in the Film and Broadcasting/Broadcast Arts category.

Criteria for the award include artists who have helped build a Filipino sense of nationhood through their work, distinguished themselves by pioneering in creative expression or style, and created a significant body of work recognized nationally and internationally.

In 2022, the country's "Superstar" Nora Aunor, movie and theater actor Tony Mabesa, screenwriter and playwright Ricky Lee, and director and screenwriter Marilou Diaz-Abaya were among the eight individuals conferred The Order of National Artists of the Philippines for Film and Broadcast Arts.