Costanilla: Visayan movies, please

ARTIST. She is at present serving as member of the Barangay Council of Punta Engaño in Lapu-Lapu City but her being a village politician for over two years now does not bar her from joining the exciting world of show biz or entertainment. In fact, she is currently shooting a Cebuano teleserye produced by the Cebu Catholic Television Network and might even produce her own television drama series. Councilor Josie Lauron-Hayashi told this writer that she simply loves acting or making people happy and delighted with her acting talent. She also stressed that this would give her the chance to relax after a hard day’s work, both as a village politician and businesswoman. I admire Hayashi for honing her skill as an artist despite her very hectic daily schedule. Fortunately, her Japanese husband is very supportive of her endeavors in both barangay politics and showbiz.

Biopic. And do you know that Hayashi started from scratch? I mean, hers is a classic example of from-rags-to-riches story. In fact, I even suggested that a biopic on her be produced and shown, if only to emphasize the point that being poor is not a hindrance in achieving success. Coming from a big family somewhere in barangay Calamba, Cebu City, she, as an elementary pupil, had to do odd jobs, including cleaning graves inside the Calamba cemetery, just to earn any amount for her baon and school supplies. But Hayashi’s effort paid off. She finished her college studies as a result of her zeal and determination.

Resort. At present, Hayashi is managing the family-owned Hinode (read: Sunrise) beach resort in Sitio Lupa, Barangay Punta Engaño, since her Japanese husband is also running a giant corporation in his native land. I asked her if this world-class resort is also open to the locals and she replied that the place does not choose any race or nationality that may want to use its facilities. The place is ideal or perfect for family gatherings or corporate events, such as parties, fellowships and seminars, plus the chance to commune with nature since the place is also full of trees and plants and is overlooking the Hilutungan Channel.

Singer. At any rate, you will have the chance to see and hear Hayashi prove her
singing prowess by watching the television show Sam Enchanted Evening on CCTN 47 tomorrow, Tuesday, and Thursday, from 10-11 p.m. The show has a replay on Wednesday and Friday from 2-3 p.m. Yes, this talented barangay councilor and entertainer is unassuming and knows what humility is all about despite her present status in life.

Excite. The upcoming premier showing of Palad Ta Ang Nagbuot should excite all of us, particularly those that have been praying for the revival of the Visayan movie industry. This Dandin Ranillo-directed film is a remake of the 1969 black-and-white flick of the same title, with boxing champion Gabriel “Flash” Elorde and Queen of Visayan Movies Gloria Sevilla playing the lead roles. In this remake, Boholano boxing champion Nonito Donaire and Davaoeña singer Crissel Valdez are the lead stars with the support of Sevilla herself (she now plays grandmother to Valdez’s character), Suzette Ranillo, Garry Lim, Max Surban, Mon Confiado, Baldo Marro and Dionne Monsanto among others. This writer also appears in this film as boxing promoter/ring announcer.

Showing. So mark Oct. 21 on your calendar as the date of the premiere showing of this movie at SM City Cinema. But prior to the screening, there will be a motorcade from the airport to the mall where the Manila-based stars will make a meet-and-greet session with the general public. There will also be a press conference and a short program prior to the premier showing. It is in this context that this writer is asking for the support of those that have vehicles and are willing to join the motorcade by simply texting cell phone numbers 0905 354 0000 or 0923 918 9696 for numbering arrangements and other instructions to make the event colorful and successful.

Prayer. It is also our prayer that after Palad Ta Ang Nagbuot, more Visayan movies (or remakes) will come our way. This would ensure the revival of the local movie industry so that our homegrown artists would no longer go to Manila just to appear in films.

I admire Ranillo and Sevilla for their genuine interest and intention to achieve this goal. They told me that this is their commitment to their fellow Visayans.