Vic Vargas: Sex symbol

In the ’60s up to the mid-’70s, Vic Vargas was the top sex symbol of Philippine movies, paired with the likes of Gloria Diaz, Miss Rita Gomez, Lolita Rodriguez, Amalia Fuentes, Daria Ramirez, Liza Lorena, Cynthia Ugalde, Alma Moreno. His magnificent physique was displayed in action-drama, comedy and adult movies.

Also in magazine pictorials, including the cover and pages of Expressweek (1975).

Vic’s first starring role was Bird of Paradise (1963), produced by Sampaguita Pictures, where he also starred in Diegong Tabak, Tansan Versus Tarzan, Walang Takot sa Patalim, Kumander Judo, From Tokyo with Love, Mga Kanyon ng Corregidor, Pito ang Asawa Ko.

While he was tagged as sex symbol, Vic was also a good actor, Manila Film Festival (1972) Best Actor for Ishmael Bernal’s El Vibora and Urian nominee for Lino Brocka’s In This Corner (1982).

Vic was also praised for his performances in Eddie Romero’s Banta ng Kahapon, Romy Suzara’s Laruang Apoy, and Bernal’s Pagdating sa Dulo opposite Miss Gomez, chosen by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino as one of the best films of the ’70s. — RKC