EDITORS DESK

After nearly five fulfilling years as the entertainment editor at the Manila Bulletin, I was granted a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the legendary Nora Aunor, also known as Ate Guy to her fans, on Aug. 12, 2023.

The meeting took place in Timog, Quezon City, where I joined several colleagues from the showbiz industry, all buzzing with anticipation to catch a glimpse of the legendary actress.
As I entered the venue, I felt excitement in the air. Other journalists shared eager whispers and stories about how Nora influenced Philippine cinema. This was a significant moment, as Nora’s work in the film industry has truly made a lasting impact, shaping entertainment for many generations.

I will remember this day forever. I met a superstar, but what truly touched me was a personal moment that followed our interview. After we spoke, Nora kindly kissed my hands to thank my father, P/Sergeant Cesar Requintina, a police officer who once protected her during a movie premiere in Manila when she was at the height of her fame.

I remember a story my father used to tell when Nora was very popular. He often shared a funny tale about how he and his police team devised innovative ways to get through excited crowds of fans who wanted to see Ate Guy.

During her movie premiere, many excited fans crowded the streets. My father had to help Nora get through the busy crowd safely. Navigating through the people was challenging.
To solve this, my father came up with a brilliant idea. He told one of the officers to grab a blanket quickly and asked Nora to pretend to faint for her safety.

My father and his team of officers picked her up and began to move through the crowd of fans. As they approached the theater, the officers called, “Step aside! Stand back! Someone has fainted!” Surprised by their urgent voices, the crowd quickly moved out of the way, allowing them a clear path.

Finally, they arrived at the theater’s entrance, where my father carefully set Nora down just as the police closed the steel gate behind them. At that moment, the fans outside erupted in joy upon realizing that Nora was safe inside the theater.

The initial excitement quickly changed to frantic joy as they shouted her name and shook the steel gate. Their voices mixed disbelief with admiration.

I remember my father laughing as he described how the fans, filled with frustration and exhilaration, seemed ready to storm the gates. He always ended the story with a smile, knowing that his mission had been accomplished without any harm.

I had not shared with Nora Aunor the sad news that my father passed away many years ago. During our conversation, she smiled and said, 'Please thank your father for me and tell him, 'Thank you so much.' " Her words deeply moved me, filling the moment with warmth and sadness as I thought of my father.

On April 16, 2025 Nora said goodbye to her fans. Rest in peace, Ate Guy. Many people cherish your legacy and the lives you have touched.

(Robert R. Requintina is the Entertainment Editor of Manila Bulletin)