
Sec. Ralph reveals Vilma’s political plans at MMPress oathtaking


TWO decades after Enpress (Entertainment Press Society), a group of entertainment writers from newspapers first became known, the organization rebranded to include online writers to its roster of members, now known as MMPress (Multi Media Press Society).
Jun Nardo, who was the original president, relinquished his position and Ambet Nabus now acts as the new president. Jun, meanwhile, was elevated to chairman of MMPress.
“We will give benefits to the members, like the health card,” said Ambet. “Magiging active din kami online and digital.
“We will have team building hopefully at Misibis Bay early next year. We will also give the Dekada Awards for film.”
MMPress used to hand out the Golden Screen Awards.
Last Tuesday, MMPress had its oathtaking before Finance Secretary Ralph Recto at the Department of Finance. Four new members were added to the group.
“Welcome to my new office,” said Secretary Ralph, who assumed his new position only last January 2024. “Hindi na kayo bago sa akin. Most of you, I know already because of my wife (Vilma Santos). Maraming salamat for all that you do for my wife.”
Secretary Ralph insisted he keeps a 12-hour workdays at the Department of Finance. “Not to worry, when it’s Saturdays and Sundays, kasama ko ang asawa ko,” he said. “Always, I have time for my family.”
On weekends, they go to Batangas and spend time there. “We watch movies together,” Secretary Ralph said. “We have dinner together every time. When I go home late, we are still together before we go to sleep.”
A new film project was pitched to Vilma for her consideration. “She gave her inputs,” Secretary Ralph said.
Vilma’s film, ‘Bata, Bata Paano Ka Ginawa,’ directed by Chito Roño was screened last month and the Star for All Seasons graced the screening of the film at the Manila Metropolitan Theater.
“Nakakatuwa because the younger generation gets to appreciate her films now,” Secretary Ralph said. “Masayang masaya siya that people still appreciate her films.”
The couple is going to the US very soon for a vacation. Secretary Ralph is staying for a week, while Vilma will spend time with her sisters and will stay longer.
Secretary Ralph said Vilma is considering to run again as governor of Batangas this coming 2025 elections. “Kung ako ang lalaban sa kanya, panalo na siya agad,” he said.
Their son, Ryan Christian, may also run for Congress in their district in Batangas, as well as Luis Manzano.
“There are two positions that he might consider, one is governor and one is Congress.”
Secretary Ralph is extending his help to the local film industry. “Si Pipo (Tirso Cruz III) nandito two days ago and he was lobbying for assistance and funds to the FDCP (Film Development Council of the Philippines).
Their office is in Intramuros. They need added funds to finish the projects that they started, including the film archives. As Secretary of Finance, tutulungan ko ang FDCP, among others.”
Secretary Ralph lamented that the expenses of the Department of Finance is P15.8 million a day. The taxes collected are P11.8 million.
“Mahirap ang trabaho ko bilang Secretary of Finance,” Ralph said. “But this position was given to me by the President. I think I will stay until 2027 before I go back to politics and consider a position again.”