SHOCKING REVELATION: Vilma Santos Opens Up About Nora Aunor’s Passing — Matet De Leon Reacts Emotionally

Manila, Philippines – May 5, 2025 — In an emotional and unexpected turn, screen legend and former political figure Vilma Santos has broken her silence about the passing of her longtime friend-turned-rival, Nora Aunor. Known as the other half of the most iconic rivalry in Philippine showbiz history, Santos has made a personal and heartfelt revelation that has stirred fans, friends, and even members of Nora’s own family — including her adopted daughter, Matet De Leon, who has since responded publicly.

Vilma Breaks Her Silence

During an interview on a special tribute program aired on national television, Vilma Santos appeared somber but composed as she spoke about the loss of her contemporary.

“I have carried this in my heart for years,” Vilma began, her voice trembling slightly. “People always wanted to see us as rivals, but deep down, I admired her more than anyone. We had our differences — but I never stopped loving her in my own quiet way.”

But the most shocking moment came when Vilma admitted that, months before Nora’s passing, the two icons had a private phone conversation — one that had never been publicly revealed.

“She called me out of the blue. We talked for hours — about life, regrets, and how tired she was. She even joked, ‘Vilma, maybe in the next life, we won’t have to compete.’ I cried after that call. I knew it was goodbye.”

Matet De Leon’s Emotional Response

Not long after the tribute aired, Matet De Leon, one of Nora Aunor’s adopted children, took to social media to share her reaction.

“I never knew they spoke before Nanay passed. That conversation meant so much. Hearing that from Ate Vi… it brought me to tears.”

In a follow-up post, Matet added:

“To everyone who ever tried to pit them against each other — know this: They respected and loved each other more deeply than anyone ever saw. That call is proof.”

Her emotional response resonated with thousands of fans, many of whom said it was “healing” to witness this long-awaited reconciliation between two titans of the industry — even if it happened quietly, and in private.

A Rivalry Built on Respect

For decades, the names Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos were spoken in the same breath — always compared, always competing for the spotlight, awards, and fan loyalty. But despite the media-driven rivalry, both women consistently acknowledged each other’s talent and influence.

“We pushed each other to be better,” Vilma said during the interview. “We wouldn’t have become legends if we didn’t have each other to chase.”

The revelation of their final conversation — filled with sincerity, closure, and even humor — is now being remembered as one of the most humanizing moments in Philippine showbiz history.

Public Reactions: “The Ending We Never Knew We Needed”

Fans of both actresses flooded social media with their reactions:

“This isn’t just about Nora and Vilma. This is about forgiveness, healing, and grace.”
“Their rivalry gave us decades of unforgettable cinema. Their friendship — hidden until now — gave us peace.”

Film historians have also noted that this final “act” between the two was perhaps their most meaningful collaboration — a reconciliation of hearts, beyond cameras and scripts.

A Quiet Goodbye, A Powerful Legacy

Nora Aunor’s death remains a national heartbreak, but this revelation from Vilma Santos adds a deeper layer to the narrative — a poignant reminder that even legends carry wounds, regrets, and love too deep for the spotlight.

As Matet De Leon so beautifully put it:

“The Superstar and the Star for All Seasons had their moment. And it was real.”