Alicia Vergel as freelance artist

After nearly 10 years as Sampaguita contract star, Alicia Vergel turned freelance artist in the mid-‘50s and starred in films produced by Premiere, People’s, Everlasting and other studios.

Two of those movies were Anak ng Lasengga and Kadenang Putik, where Alice co-starred with Zaldy Zshornack, Edna Luna, Lopito, Efren Reyes, Leonor Vergara, Bob Soler, Ronald Remy, Lily Marquez and Tessie Quintana. She was directed by Gerry de Leon, Eddie Romero, Chat Gallardo and Rolf Bayer, among others.

In the mid-‘60s and ‘70s, Alicia retired from acting and engaged in business and joined public service. She served as barangay captain in Sto. Domingo, Quezon City, where she faced tough guys and other troublemakers to maintain peace and order in the community. As Sampaguita star, Alicia was billed fearless action queen, paired with husband Cesar Ramirez.

But let it be said that also as Sampaguita star, Alicia was the first FAMAS Best Actress for Basahang Ginto (1952) and first Maria Clara Best Supporting Actress for Mapuputing Kamay (1950).

In the late ‘70s, Alicia returned to the movies via Lino Brocka films, notably Inay, where she appeared with son Ace Vergel. In the ‘80s, she was directed by Sampaguita contemporary Eddie Garcia in Saan Nagtatago ang Pag-ibig. Alicia also appeared in telenovelas. —RKC