In the midst of her special comeback in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the Star for All Seasons, Vilma Santos, alongside the King of Philippine Drama, Christopher De Leon, has experienced a health struggle.
The onscreen pair that has stood the test of time, fondly known as Ate Vi and Boyet, are gearing up for the much-anticipated release of “When I Met You in Tokyo” — a poignant love story that transcends boundaries, marking the inaugural offering from JG Productionse.
With their relentless commitment to the project, the tireless efforts took a toll on Ate Vi’s health. The actress, known for her professionalism, is feeling under the weather, after dedicatedly promoting the film, accepting almost every engagement.
Even in the face of adversity, Ate Vi’s unwaveringe dedication shone through. Last December 14, she did not miss the grand media conference for their film via the video call application Zoom. Her voice, nasal and indicative of congestion, demonstrated her resilience and determination.
At the much-awaited MMFF Parade of Stars, Ate Vi made her presence felt through an audio message she prepared that was played during the ride. She displayed how much love she has for her fans.
“When I Met You in Tokyo” not only showcases the enduring chemistry between Ate Vi and Boyet but also serves as a testament to their support for emerging producers Weng Jamaji and Rajan Gidwani. In a challenging era for the Philippine film industry, the duo aims to revitalize the sector and champion local productions.
Supervising producer Redgie Acuña-Magno was right as she previously highlighted the hands-on approach of Ate Vi and Boyet in the film’s creation. Boyet, credited as one of the creative directors, infused his creative influence, while Ate Vi actively contributed insights, many of which were beautifully captured during filming in Japan.
Acuña-Magno emphasized that the lead actors actively participated in refining scenes, ensuring a seamless narrative flow, and elevating the overall quality of the film. Their dedication extends beyond the screen, showcasing a commitment to the success of “When I Met You in Tokyo.”
Anticipation builds up as we count down the days to the Metro Manila Film Festival 2023. Ate Vi and Boyet, along with the entire team behind “When I Met You in Tokyo,” look forward to showcasing their labor of love on the big screen starting on Christmas Day.
