Charo Santos took to social media to pay tribute to the late filmmaker Mike de Leon.
In an Instagram post, Charo shared how Mike had been her mentor in the industry and how his passing meant losing a friend.
"Today, I lost a dear friend. Mike was my very first mentor in the art and discipline of filmmaking. From him I learned everything, the rigor of preparing a shot list, the mounting of scenes, the rhythm of narrative, the editing, the discipline of sound, music, and mixing back when motion picture was shot on actual film. He was a perfectionist, a genius, and a true master of cinema," she wrote.
Beyond work, Charo relayed that Mike was a supportive friend to her, especially during the challenging times in her life. "Yet beyond his brilliance, Mike was my friend. He gave me trust, guidance, and unforgettable moments of collaboration. Through the years, he was unfailingly present at milestones and even in the most challenging seasons of my life. In my darkest hours, he was there, quiet, steady, kind. Ours was a bond that felt like soulmates in artistry, a connection built on respect and admiration," she stated.
The actress also highlighted the impactful movies that the late filmmaker created, saying: "He gave us films that were not merely watched, but deeply felt, etched into who we are. Kisapmata, Batch ’81, Kung Mangarap Ka’t Magising, Kakabakaba Ka Ba and Itim were never just films; they were mirrors, unflinching in their truth, forcing us to confront ourselves and the world we live in."
She also recalled a heartbreaking moment she shared with Mike when they were preparing for a project. "I will never forget the last time we spoke, as we were preparing a film together, its working title: Unfinished Business. He said, 'I don’t think I will live to finish this film because of my condition, so I don’t even want to start it.' Heartbreaking words from a man who had devoted his entire life to cinema and to truth," she shared.
Charo remarked that despite his passing, Mike's legacy in the Philippine cinema lives on. "Mike’s departure feels like a scene cut too soon, an unfinished business. And yet, in truth, his work is complete. His films will forever illuminate our history, our fears, and our dreams," she said.
She concluded her post, saying: "Paalam, Mike. Maraming salamat. Rest in power. Nagmamahal, Charo."
Mike passed away at 78 years old.