Tirso Cruz III: A peep into his travels

Tirso “Pip” Cruz III has made one of the more spectacular comebacks this side of tinsel town. And with artistically rendered, top-rating teleseryes and films to his name, he could well be forgiven for throwing the occasional tantrum or — in showbiz lingo — the diva turn. But he is none of the above. Sans any affectations, he plays down his celebrity status,  is quick to laugh at himself and engages us in a frank but gracious conversation.

But  then, he does a double-take: “I was a diva once in my life. On a film set where a hush settled on everyone as I slept in a corner and everything stood still. My co-stars had no choice, even our director just had to wait until I woke up and only then could the cameras roll again,” he said shaking his head, his eyes crinkling in a smile.

“I portrayed the Baby Jesus, and, it was my first film.” Tirso Cruz III was all of six months old in the early ‘50s when the film Ang Pagsilang ng Mesiyas was directed by the eminent Carlos Vander Tolosa and featured Norma Blancaflor.

Scion of a musical family, one of the best known and respected names in the industry, you could say he was to the klieg lights born. Midway into his teen years, he would again burst into the limelight, this time with a star that shone brighter and longer as the other half of the then most popular tandem in movie land — the Guy and Pip love team. Paired with the dusky and diminutive and very charismatic Nora Aunor, champion of numerous singing competitions and darling of the masa, the fair, gangling and boyishly handsome young man set hearts a-flutter and made the girls swoon. Together, the two cut one gold record after another and starred in many of those light romantic comedies that made millions in the box office for their producers.

But as all cute little boys grow up and their winsome young screen partners enter into that awkward age, Tirso Cruz III somehow faded away from the limelight. His screen partner Nora  Aunor went through a troubled roller coaster ride in her personal life but managed to sustain a solo career as a singer and dramatic actress of note. Away from all that attention, he quietly carried on a life unremarked upon by audiences; occasionally he joined members of the Cruz family in their singing stints here and abroad.

Next the public heard of him, he had married his non-showbiz sweetheart Lynn Ynchausti, the quiet, highly supportive wife who was to be the bedrock of his life. Together they raised three children: Tristan Jedidiah or TJ, Elmo Jeremiah nicknamed Bodie and Dionina Saraiah, fondly called Djanin. All three graduated from De La Salle University and are pursuing careers away from the entertainment scene. Come May, the couple will celebrate 33 years of a married life together.

In the ‘90s, he found his second wind — this time as one of the most in-demand character actors of his generation. Seemingly, while his fans grew into middle age, they saw him take on some of his most memorable and critically acclaimed movie roles and television portrayals.

What is it that allowed him to make this successful transition from matinee idol to premature has-been to brilliant actor? The man is solidly anchored on — and places great stock by — family, friendships and a singular dedication to his craft.

He keeps his family and friends close to his side. “I get together with my actor friends — there’s Boyet  de Leon, Bobot  Mortiz, Rez Cortez, LT, Amy Austria and her husband Duke Ventura, who although not an actor is part of our  tight circle — their wives and more so our children get along superbly well,” he says.

Vacations with his family are likewise much-cherished times. “I travel simply and practically.”

When asked what else he wishes for, he admits, “I might as well shoot for the stars. I dream of working with the likes of De Niro, Al Pacino and learn from them. But I might be so star-struck and perhaps, I won’t be able to do a great job of it at all,” he adds laughing.

PHILIPPINE STAR: What do you remember most from your first trip abroad?

TIRSO CRUZ III: The moment Doc Jose Perez of Sampaguita Pictures announced the plan to shoot an entire movie in Honolulu with Nora Aunor, the excitement began. It was My Blue Hawaii in the early ‘70s. I played the role of a purser and I recall getting on board the aircraft in an airline crew uniform for we were to film some scenes while on flight. In between shooting schedules, we had ample time to see the city’s attractions. I must admit, I was taken aback then when we encountered several ladies in two-piece bikinis on the streets, for back home such getup would definitely be limited only around the beach area.

We later proceeded to Los Angeles to film yet another movie, The Gift of Love. What made this particular trip truly special was that my dad, who was also a first-time traveler abroad, was with me. We hung around together, shared beautiful experiences. In today’s lingo, we bonded. And that meant so much to me.

What won’t you leave home without?

My small folding-type hair dryer for emergencies. Would you believe, I also take with me whenever I travel my plastic tabo (laughs).

How do you pass the time at airports?

Once I’ve settled at the airport lounge of Philippine Airlines — that’s the airline we usually take — I have my share of the Lugaw ni Lucio. I then check on my messages and try to reply before departure. When time permits, I run the itinerary through my mind and discuss it with my wife and children.

Who is your ideal traveling companion?

When I was growing up, it was my dad for both the provincial stints and foreign cities, mostly to America and around Japan. But for more than 30 years, my wife Lynn has been my ideal and constant traveling companion. Since she loves to pack, she takes care of it.  I do travel light — a little bit more than the average backpack — while she is quite the opposite. But I never complain. I recall the times that I needed something and there she would be — almost miraculously — producing the desired item. She’s that organized — a life saver!

What would you consider a must-do activity in every foreign city that you visit?

Hunt for a local hole-in-a-wall restaurant and try the destination’s authentic food. But it’s easier said than done because during our working trips we are continuously hosted by Filipino families and members of Philippine communities who forever serve us delicious Filipino food. Gracious hospitality at its best. But once we were in Rome — on our last day — and as they say, “When in Rome, do as…” So one evening, we politely excused ourselves, walked the streets around the area till we came upon a quaint resto and bar. Not familiar with the Italian language, we played a game among ourselves of pointing at certain items on different pages of the picture-less menu. Luckily we ended up with a fantastic meal. We soon rushed to the party, joined everyone for dinner — our second for the evening, mind you — and no one had an inkling of what had actually happened earlier.

Describe your most memorable trip.

Without any hesitation it was the trip to the US with Lynn and our kids TJ, Bodie and Djanin, then ages 10, 7 and five, respectively. I decided that whatever I was going to be compensated for a series of shows across America, I would splurge it all on a trip with the entire family. And I did. We started at Disneyland in Anaheim. I can’t forget to this day the happy looks of disbelief on my children’s faces the minute they stepped into “The Happiest Place on Earth.” That alone gave us parents a wonderful feeling — truly a high — and was surely worth all the expense. We also went on to other theme parks such as Universal Studios, Knot’s Berry Farm to name a few. As they say, we did the works.

We then proceeded to the other states for more shows. This very memorable trip lasted for almost a month. But we had a scare. We were in Texas where some dear friends obtained tickets for us to experience a Dallas Cowboys football game. With all the usual commotion within a big dome, both Lynn and I stared at each other when we noticed that our younger son was missing. In unison, we exclaimed, “I thought he was with you!” At that moment, I thought I would die. Imagine the huge arena filled to the rafters with mostly “giants” and my little boy was only seven. We searched and searched around our area because we surmised he couldn’t have gone far since we noticed that he wasn’t with us early on. When we least expected, we spotted him coming towards us from the restroom pulling up his zipper. All we could hear was “I wanted to pee and I had to go.”

In spite of this rather big hiccup, Lynn and I together with our children — now ages 30, 27 and 24 — plan to soon retrace and revisit the places we did during this particularly memorable trip. But come to think of it, perhaps we may go on a cruise that begins in and eventually returns to Barcelona.

What do you miss most when you’re away from home?

Without a doubt, our pets — our 11 dogs. Four of them — Chihuahuas, namely Gucci, Fifi, Tomtom and Vhong-vhong, who is incidentally the oldest and the big boss — collectively own the house and appear to run our home. We have the twin big dogs, Choco and Martin, on our farm in Batangas where they roam freely outdoors.

What is the strangest thing you have done on a trip?

I believe that one should behave like a guest in the host country, mind one’s own business and go on one’s own merry way. However, not on that one particular day while we were visiting the Tour de Eiffel in Paris. Though my fellow performers and I had been doing shows for a number of consecutive days and perhaps lacked sleep, we easily spotted a guy sizing up my wife and her companion Ali Sotto in the nearby gardens. So in Tagalog, we warned the ladies and the would-be thief noticed, so he moved away to prey on other could-be victims. A couple, possibly lovers, were necking and at times petting, oblivious to the world around them, when the same curly- haired man reached out for their shared knitted bag. Before he could move another inch, I together with some friends hollered and Cesar Montano, who happened to be nearby, bodily stopped him, kicked him in the chest and retrieved the bag with all of its contents. It was one of those things that had to be done. The robber fled. But fearing that he was part of a gang, Cesar removed his jacket and changed his attire completely. True enough, the man returned with his cohorts and looked for Cesar. But luckily they didn’t recognize him even though he was just standing nearby. 

Let’s talk favorites now. Name your favorite city abroad.

Los Angeles and San Francisco, both for their ideal weather and many obvious beautiful sites. But the main reason is our close friends who reside in the environs and are serious players of tennis, the sport I love and enjoy most. Whenever we visit, I bring my complete gear. While the wife happily goes bargain hunting in malls for rare finds, I gladly spend my time among friends in tennis courts. 

Name your favorite spot in the Philippines.

Our fruit tree farm in Lipa, Batangas which is usually an easy 90-minute drive drive from our place. Lately, we have been planting more lanzones, rambutan, jackfruit and guyabano. We have likewise included mahogany trees and soon we plan to have some flowering plants.

Favorite airline?

I’m afraid I’m rather nationalistic, so my choice is Philippine Airlines. After my hot bowl of the Lugaw ni Lucio at the Mabuhay Airport Lounge, the genuine warmth is carried on to the flight where the crew continue their very charming  personalized service. How can you beat that?

Favorite museum?

My dad was a voracious reader. He constantly advised me that should I ever get the chance to travel, I must do Europe for its history and heritage, arts and culture. I would make it a point not to miss the more important museums such as the Louvre in Paris, the British Museum in London, the Prado in Madrid, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence.

Favorite resort?

The Flushing Meadows Resort in Bohol. Named after the venue of the US Tennis Open, their suites honor tennis champions such as Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras. The owner is obviously a tennis fan and he and I truly get along. It’s a resort where we hang loose, chat, eat, and more importantly play game after game. Being billeted there is just like staying home and you know how that feels. After our rather frequent visits we already have our own designated room. Can you ask for anything more?

Favorite landmark?

Le Tour Eiffel, hands down. For many years, I have seen photographs of it and watched it on television and film. You can imagine how I looked forward to the day I would finally see it. It was like a dream. I love it during the day and even at night with all the colored lights on it.

Favorite musical?

Miss Saigon with Lea Salonga in the lead role, both in New York and here in Manila. Truly awesome. Lea’s mother, Ligaya, invited us to drop by backstage where we had the opportunity to meet up with and congratulate the talented crew and likewise be amazed at the fantastic sets. What caught my eye was the large bulletin board in Lea’s dressing room which was siksik with congratulatory letters and notes of praise. Curious, I did flip one of the cards. It was from the legendary movie actor, the Charlton Heston, who as far as I’m concerned was, bigger than life. I couldn’t help but remind myself Pilipino ako and proud to be one.

Favorite mall?

The Americana, the neighborhood mall in Glendale, California ideally situated near the tennis courts that I frequent.

Favorite restaurant?

Cheesecake Factory. Whenever we see a branch, we make it a point to stop for dessert.

Name an event anywhere in the world you would like to participate in?

We have been fortunate to witness tennis games at the US Open in  Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Queens, New York; the French Open in Paris and the Australian Open at Melbourne Park. But my dream is to be at The Championship in Wimbledon and watch tournaments being played on grass courts resulting in the fastest games in tennis.

What is the worst souvenir you have ever bought back from a trip?

Although I marvel at the more-than-lifesize all-in-one-piece marble statue of “David” by Michelangelo at the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, Italy, our worst souvenir is a poor reproduction of a bust of David perhaps due to the obvious frown creating the many lines on its forehead. It’s somewhere at home all wrapped up and stored away.

Name a city you have never visited but would like to someday.

Barcelona. The weather. The sun. The people. The lifestyle. The food. The nightlife. To watch a football game of FC Barcelona. And of course, to see the various monuments built by Antoni Gaudi including the spectacular gothic cathedral. 

Name a country you wish to explore.

Spain. What else can I say?