Vilma Santos on John Wayne Sace: “Sana maka-recover pa rin ang bata”
VILMA SANTOS – The Star for All Season shared her thoughts on the arrest of John Wayne Sace, her co-star in the 2002 film Dekada ’70, where he played her son. John Wayne was taken into custody on October 28, 2024, for allegedly shooting a friend in Pasig City. The victim reportedly sustained four gunshot wounds.
During a screening of the digitally restored Dekada ’70 at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) on November 27, Vilma reflected on John Wayne’s situation. Watching the film reminded her of his youthful and innocent demeanor. “I feel bad,” she said. “Noong pinapanood ko siya, ang bata pa niya. Tuwing tinitingnan ko siya, parang nakikita ko na parang ang bait-bait pa niya. Wala siyang problema at that time.”
Vilma revealed that she and John Wayne lost contact after the movie. She recalled meeting him only twice afterward, with their last encounter being at an ABS-CBN Christmas event when he was still active on television. She admitted feeling helpless about his current situation. “Para ko na rin siyang anak, in my own little way, meron. Pero, I don’t even know how to communicate. Correct me if I’m wrong, he’s in jail,” she explained.
Despite this, Vilma emphasized that her support for John Wayne comes in the form of prayers. “So, I feel bad for him. I don’t know how, but right now, I’m praying for him. Sana maka-recover pa rin ang bata,” she said.
Vilma’s statements were part of a talk-back session after the UST screening, which is part of a program showcasing her digitally restored films, including Bata, Bata Paano Ka Ginawa?, Tagos ng Dugo, and Ekstra. Plans are also in place to release three books about her life and career, including a coffee table book and her biography.
When asked about her most meaningful role in life, Vilma highlighted her role as a mother. “Pero iba pa rin ang mother. Miracle, e, miracle,” she said. “And kung meron pinakamahalaga sa buhay ko, ito ay ang pagiging isang ina. Yun ang memorable sa buhay ko and it’s a miracle to be a mother.”