MANILA, Philippines — Veteran actress and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto has addressed her omission from the latest list of Order of National Artists conferments, sharing that she accepts whatever recognition comes her way without resentment.
Santos made the statement during a talkback session following a special screening of her 1984 classic film “Sister Stella L.” at the Metropolitan Theater on Sunday, September 20.
The “Star for All Seasons” noted that her perspective on career honors has always been grounded in acceptance, expressing deep gratitude for her six-decade career in Philippine show business.
“Napakatagal na issue na. But at the end of the day prinsipyo ko na ever since sa buhay ay if it’s meant to be it is meant to be, if it is for you, it is for you. Kung hindi ka nasasali it is fine with me,” Santos said.
“Sa animnapu’t taon ko sa industriya, palagay ko ang naibalik sa akin ng industriya ay malaking regalo na,” she added.
Her absence from the newly proclaimed batch of 10 Order of National Artists awardees—which brought the total number of honorees in Philippine arts and culture to 91—drew attention and dismay from long-time supporters who have advocated for her inclusion.
When asked whether her ongoing role in public office might be affecting her nomination prospects, the sitting Batangas governor stated that her immediate priority remains serving her constituents.
“Palagay ko po hindi ko po muna ipagpapalit ang pwede ko maitulong sa totoong buhay ang pangangailangan ng ating kababayan,” Santos explained.
“I have two years and eight months to go at kung ito ay maging sagabal sa pagiging National Artist, hayaan niyo ako magsilbi sa totoong buhay. Ako ay pinagkatiwalaan ng Batangueño ibabalik ko muna iyon,” she stated.