DELIGHTFUL MEMORIES OF THE VERA PEREZ FAMILY

By | October 4, 2020
Trivia:The unexpected recent demise of showbiz figure Marichu Vera Perez Maceda made this writer to recount my closeness to her family, especially her late father Dr. Jose Perez. He was the top showbiz movie producer from the ‘50s up to ‘70s via the Sampaguita Pictures. Dr. Perez was not only discoverer of top actresses but the recognized movie queens of the ‘50s Gloria Romero and in the ‘60s, none other than Susan Roces.To recall, as tyro scribe I was assigned to interview Dr. Perez that ushered in my attachment to him. His personal advices to be a creative reporter enhanced more my knowledge in public relation, his forte. Often times, Dr. Perez invited me in special events, not connected with showbiz gatherings that attested our friendship.During the early years of Martial Law, Dr. Perez congratulated me when I was among the staff of the only newspaper that time Philippine Daily Express. Later, he called me up upon hearing I was assigned movie editor of Evening Express, the sister publication of Daily Express. All the more, we had discussed latest information in and out of showbiz world.In his passing away, Marichu, better known as Manay Ichu assiduously continued his legacy, not only as film maker. She emerged one of the founders of PMPA (Philippine Motion Pictures Association),  MOWELFUND, ( Movie Writers Welfare Foundation),  the SSS of movie people, and Film Academy of the Philippines.Subsequently, when the FAMAS award giving body bestowed me its special award Dr. Jose Perez Memorial trophy, it was Manay Ichu and her sibling Pepito Vera Perez who handed it. Later, she whispered to me. “You truly deserved to receive the award. For sure, my dad’s happy up there with the Lord.”One incident I was delighted transpired when Manay Ichu and her sister Lilibeth heard I was looking for the venue for the debut of my daughter Myra. Albeit it was held at the time the siblings no longer allowed their property the famous Vera Perez Garden to be used publicly, the duo offered it to me.At that, at the actual birthday bash, Myra had been enthralled by the decoration and the presence of showbiz personalities and her godparents in baptism, led by Alex Muhlach with his son Nino, Perla Bautista and Rez Cortez who’s my pal since college student days.Interestingly, Manay Ichu and this writer were more attached when she settled down with the late Ernie Maceda who was elected a senator. For it happened that Ernie’s parents were closed to my father and uncle. Ernie’s dad Antonio Maceda, just like my uncle served in the government in the education department.In an event of the Maceda family, Manay Ichu’s father in law mentioned to her that he was one of my ninong sa binyag. While Ernie recalled to her that my cousin was a chum since their college days. Manay Ichu was amused to know my family-s closeness to the Macedas.With nostalgia, I remember the last time I met Manay Ichu occurred when I went on vacation in the Philippines. We bumped into an event in Mowelfund. Together with Boots Anson Roa, the three of us had an enjoyable time recounting the past.Alden, Maine Contravene GossipsWith Alden Richards teams up with Jasmine Curtis Smith in the episode of I Can See You titled Love on the Balcony, talks have it romance blossoms between the two off cameras. Allegedly, Jasmine has reciprocated Alden’s love for her. Alden somehow chided those who scatter such fake news.“In the first place, we’re mere friends just like before. If she has boyfriend, I forward to him my apology. I highly respect Jasmine. Pasensya na kung nadamay siya sa tsismis.”  Alden affirmed to scribes. About Maine Mendoza, not a few followers of Aldub nation (Alden-Maine diehards) disclosed she no longer manifests love for them since her love affair with Arjo Atayde.A colleague divulged what Maine spoke with candor “That’s not true. My love and care for the Aldub will remain forever in my heart. This will never cease no matter what.”Tom’s Hidden TalentDid you know that macho actor Tom Rodriguez has a hidden talent? Since he was still out of showbiz he had a passion to become a song writer.Tom craved for it so he would often hear ditties, especially the meaningful and touching. Finally, during the COVID-19 pandemic Tom has started to write one seriously.A writer pal related to me that Tom admitted if he clicks as song writer he would aspire to compose ditties. That his yearning it ends up the title and theme song of his future film starrer would become a reality.Piolo to Sue BB Gandanghari?Still one topic being spread delves into the reaction of Piolo Pascual over BB Gandanghari’s claim. During his time as Rustom Padilla, Piolo was once a lover, had romantic fling with him abroad. Some opine it’s ground for Piolo to sue BB for libel. However, legal experts that with his staying abroad, if ever Piolo can only file cyber libel.Those attached to Piolo have impacted that he won’t go to BB’s level whose motive falls on just to be talked about. As it is, Piolo keeps mum on the allegation of BB, focusing on his showbiz assignments and other activities. Reportedly, BB has prepared to expose more facts about Piolo. The latter as ever remains cool, not in a scrappy moodAnother Triumph for Dingdong DantesAt the recent 15th Seoul Drama Awards held in South Korea Dingdong Dantes was not the winner of the best actor but declared Asian Star Prize awardee for Descendants of the Sun, the Filipino version of Korean top TV series. Dingdong learned it, timely at its re-taping of the series.Before Dingdong, Dennis Trillo (2016), Gabby Concepcion (2017) and Alden Richards (2019) garnered the same recognition. In his succinct message, Dingdong dedicated it to all worldwide front liners, his family, loved ones and avid followers who have never left him.Blind Item:Those who are attached to an actress echo that she lambasts critics of the current administration out of pressure from her actor-husband. Reportedly, he orders to keep her mouth shut if she can’t defend the government’s projects. Allegedly, it could be attributed to the actor’s loyalty to President Duterte.The actor’s confidant, however, stressed that’s ludicrous. Privately, the couple would never talk about politics. Besides, both respect each other’s opinion, especially on political figures.Latest Tidbits:Albeit Kris Bernal’s contract under GMA-7 has not been renewed, she discarded she threw unsavory statement on its management. According to my source, Kris felt near depressed when informed. Yet she sustains gratefulness to its bigwigs. Kris is thankful  she has been offered guest roles in the forthcoming shows of the Kapuso network.Could it be true that Julia Barretto’s parents have contrasting reaction on what broadcaster Jay Sonza ignited? It’s about the fake story Julia is pregnant by alleged lover Gerald Anderson. Reportedly, Julia’s mom has been so enraged for his fake news. While the actress’ dad comedy actor Dennis Padilla took it calmly.It’s understandable for Jay happens to be Dennis pal for years. Hear that Dennis stated Jay should have verified to him first if it’s true. In any case, Jay apologized to Julia and her family. However, others have claimed he still exuded arrogance in his message.Mikael Daez simply grinned on the trending gossip that his wife Megan Young will soon deliver their first child. He enthused to writer-friends. “Sana nga totoo but that still looms to happen. Megan also anticipates that occurrence. We hope by next year.”Personal:My heartfelt thanks to my close writer-friends for decades who have remained trustworthy through thick and thin and exude concern even I’m distance away being in Canada..Not only that, they oftentimes send me fresh showbiz news, especially Ricky lo, Vir Gonzales, Linda Rapadas, Roland Lerum and Noel orsal..ReplyForward