After a 12-year hiatus, acclaimed actress Hilda Koronel is making her much-anticipated return to the Philippines. She is set to star in a historical film titled "Sisa," which delves into the rich tapestry of the country's past. 

The project aims to capture the essence of Filipino history and culture, showcasing Hilda's exceptional talent in a role that promises to resonate with audiences. Fans are eagerly awaiting her comeback, celebrating the artistic legacy she has cultivated over the years.

During her recent guest appearance on the talk show "Fast Talk With Boy Abunda" on GMA Network, Hilda expressed her enthusiasm for an upcoming movie project. 

She shared her excitement about being involved in a film that features a captivating storyline, which she believes will engage and resonate with audiences. Her passion for the project was evident as she discussed the potential it has to bring something fresh and intriguing to the screen.

"I'm going to do a historical thriller. It's called Sisa. They believe it's all about Jose Rizal's 'Sisa,' but it's not. It's an original story. Interesting," said Hilda.

Asked how she would attack the role of Sisa, the award-winning actress said: "They see her as a mad woman from the beginning. She was damaged. Parang loka-loka siya. So dahil loka-loka, pinangalan siyang Sisa. That's it. But truly, she was not a crazy woman. She was a spy for the revolutionaries."

"I did Lupang Hinirang, a period piece from the old days, but this one is different. I loved the story, and the presentation during the Zoom meeting was so interesting. It was so professionally done, and I thoroughly loved the synopsis first. Then I said give me a great script. And they did.

"Maraming ita-tackle rito na stories, and it's a very interesting story. Relevant pa rin and you have a bit of history. Mga twist and turn namin very interesting," Hilda said.

Boy said Eugene Domingo and Jenica Garcia will be part of the cast. Hilda also explained how she prepares for a role.

"In a way, when I read the script, napapanaginipan ko na yung mga eksena. It's like a movie in my brain. And I see how I will attack and discuss that scene with them.

"They listen naman, and we collaborate. So I internalize, and I get into my role as anybody. Pagpapasok na ako ng kotse, 'Sisa' na ako.

"Tahimik na ako ng konti. Of course I greet everybody. Baka sabihin nila mataray ako. But I have to concentrate in one corner: I have to do my lines and I want to make sure na kung ano ang gusto ng direktor and gusto ko pareho. 

"Magsi-sync kaming dalawa. May sarili siyang interpretation I respect that. May sarili rin ako so pinag-uusapan namin dalawa," Hilda added.

Although Hilda has lived abroad for almost 20 years, she expressed that she never misses acting. Her last film was The Mistress in 2012.

"I guess I've been at it for so long since I was 12 years old. My husband said it was time for me to stop already.

"Ang na-miss ko yung country, the people. I missed my children and my grandchildren. I missed my maids. They are family to us," Hilda said.

Hilda was asked to send a message to her younger self.

"I think I was very afraid at that time. I would say, 'Lakasan mo ang loob mo.' Kinakaladkad na ako ng nanay ko since I was young. But I was too shy. I didn't even know what that meant yung maging artista ka." 

Hilda acknowledges that she still feels nervous when filming a movie on set.

"May kaba pa rin sa paggawa ng pelikula in the beginning. Pero nawawala yan as you go along. Sa umpisa lang yan eh."

Hilda, 67, starred in more than 45 movies, most of which were critically acclaimed.  In 1970, she won Best Supporting Actress for the movie "Santiago,"  making her the youngest winner in that category at 13. 

The late director Lino Brocka recognized Hilda's natural acting talent. Lino directed her in the award-winning movies "Maynila Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag" and "Insiang." He also directed the actress in the weekly series "Hilda."

Hilda was previously married to actor Jay Ilagan in 1980. In 1992, Jay passed away. In 2000, Hilda married Ralph Moore Jr. Now based in the US, the couple has children.

Advice for the young stars

Hilda shared some advice with the current actors.

"Just work hard and love your craft. I always say it takes a village to finish a movie. So treat everybody with respect and be on time. 

"Lahat yan. I respect them from top to bottom. Importante sa akin yun, she said.

Hilda also recalled moments when she scolded fellow actors. "Marami."

She revealed she never had a showbiz crush. However, she almost got into serious relationships with her leading men. "I won't tell."

Hilda expressed that she feels flattered whenever critics refer to her as the gold standard in acting.

"I hope I can live up to that hype. I don't want to offend other actors who work with me. But that's how they see it. So what can I do? It's flattering, but I don't see myself like that."

The actress also named some of the Filipino stars she admires. "Marami. Nora (Aunor) is good. Vilma (Santos) is good. I've worked with them. Ate Guy a lot with Viva Films. I love Dindo Fernando. I love Eddie Garcia. I love Christopher de Leon. I love Bembol Roco. Marami."

On current stars she likes, Hilda said: "Wala ako masyadong alam because I was out of the country. I took out my TFC because I used to cry a lot kapag nanonood kami ng mga Christmas. Naiiyak kaming mag-asawa. Nalulungkot ako."

Hilda said she will celebrate the holidays with her children and grandchildren in Manila.