Charo Santos Shares Her Personal Journey as a Devoted Noranian
CHARO SANTOS – TV host-actress Charo Santos-Concio candidly reflects on her experiences and the deep pride she feels as a lifelong Noranian.
Charo Santos-Concio paid a heartfelt tribute to National Artist Nora Aunor during her eulogy at the state funeral held earlier today at the Metropolitan Theater in Manila. In her moving speech, Charo reflected on her deep admiration for Nora, recalling how the legendary actress inspired her long before she ventured into the world of show business.
Charo shared that she had been a devoted Noranian even as a young girl. “Walang himala. Pero mayroong nag-iisang Nora,” she said, emphasizing that Nora’s real life was a testament to the idea that nothing is impossible. Charo highlighted how Nora’s extraordinary journey—rising from humble beginnings as a young girl selling water and peanuts along the train tracks—mirrored the struggles and triumphs of countless Filipinos. She added, “Ang kanyang tunay na buhay ay nasalamin sa buhay nina Elsa, Corazon, Delia, Flor Contemplacion, at marami pang iba,” pointing out how Nora’s roles resonated deeply with the Filipino people. “But Nora Aunor was even bigger than all her roles.”
Charo went on to say that Nora was not only an actress but a beacon of hope for millions. “Kahit saang probinsya ka man manggaling, ano mang hirap mo, Nora gave millions of Filipinos the most important gift—hope, pag-asa.” Charo recalled how Nora’s success made Filipinos believe that they too could achieve their dreams: “‘Kung kaya ni Ate Guy, kaya ko rin.'”
For Charo, Nora was not just a superstar but someone who embodied the spirit of the Filipino. “I was one of the Filipinos who saw myself in Nora,” Charo revealed. She vividly remembered watching Nora perform on “Tawag ng Tanghalan” and being captivated by her voice, presence, and beauty. Charo, just like many others, proudly identified as part of the “bakya crowd,” a loyal group of fans who adored Nora.
“We were called the bakya crowd and we were proud of it dahil may ‘Superstar’ kami na isa sa amin,” Charo said. To her, Nora’s ability to capture the hearts of millions was unparalleled, and no other star has ever been met with such adulation in Philippine showbiz.
Charo described Nora as “genuine, unfiltered, and true,” noting that Nora didn’t just act—she completely transformed into her roles. “Hindi lang siya artista, siya ay alagad ng sining. May lalim, may tapang, may puso,” Charo said. Nora’s roles, particularly in iconic films like Himala, demonstrated her depth, passion, and brilliance.
As Charo concluded her tribute, she reflected on Nora’s extraordinary impact, noting how her legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of Filipinos. “Award-winning ang mga roles at pelikula ng ating minamahal,” she said, emphasizing the immense contribution Nora made to Philippine cinema.
In her speech, Charo Santos-Concio honored not just a star but an icon whose spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.
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