In 1950, LVN produced Mutya ng Pasig, inspired by Nicanor Abelardo’s immortal kundiman and topbilled by Rebecca Gonzales, classical singer, in the title role. Co-starring Jose Padilla Jr., Teody Belarmino and Delia Razon.
The CCP Encyclopedia of the Philippine Art wrote that Abelardo was inspired by a carnival along the Pasig River in 1926. ‘In the light of the full moon, the mutya (muse or goddess) speaks, lamenting her lost kingdom and love, an allusion to the freedom lost by the country to the Americans.’
The love ballad (with lyrics by Deogracia Rosario) has a patriotic message:
‘Dati akong paraluman
Sa kaharian ng pag-ibig
Ang pag-ibig nang mamatay
Naglaho rin ang kaharian’
Mutya ng Pasig was directed by Richard Abelardo and written by Mars Torres. Music by Francisco Buencamino Sr. and Jr. Cinematography by Ray Lacap. — RKC