Vilma Santos is not pressured to be recognized as a National Artist
Batangas Governor and Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos-Recto shared her thoughts on the selection for National Artist awardees.
Vilma, or Ate Vi, is one of the most respected showbiz personalities, and this extended to the field of politics as she has been serving as a local government official for many years already.
In a recent interview, based on the article in PEP, the veteran actress said that she respects whatever decision the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) makes regarding the selection of this year’s National Artists.
Aktor PH, an actors’ group currently led by actress Iza Calzado, is among those advocating for Vilma’s nomination for the National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts award, but the NCCA has yet to make an official announcement.
She was asked about her views on this in a recent interview. “Wala akong alam diyan,” Vilma Santos admitted.
“But I’m so grateful and thankful sa lahat ng mga nagsusulong nito para sa akin. Mataas ang respeto ko sa National Artist, sa NCCA at ibang namamahala dito. Showbiz is my life. I started from there. Kung saan man ako naroroon, utang na loob ko ‘to sa show business,” she added.
Even if she is not named a National Artist this year, Vilma said that she is grateful to those who advocated for her nomination for the said award. For her, if this is not given to her this year, then it means that it’s not time yet, and she would let it.
The veteran actress also said that her life does not depend on an award, as her life will continue to function and operate without receiving an award.
The actress-politician stressed that winning an award is not the only thing that makes her happy. She pointed out that there’s so much more in life. With all that she has achieved in 72 years of her life, she can’t be controlled by just one award.
Another thing that is making her life beautiful is helping other people, which is very fulfilling for her. She also pointed out that having her family and being healthy are just among the things she is thankful for.
Vilma Santos also said that the blessings she received from Above were too many for her.