ABS-CBN exec Leo Katigbak recalls ‘big moment’ with Nora Aunor

ABS-CBN Film Restoration head Leo Katigbak took to social media to share a poignant memory of an unforgettable encounter with the legendary actress, National Artist, and Superstar Nora Aunor.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Katigbak looked back on a moment in 2012 that he described as a turning point — not just for him, but for the young team behind ABS-CBN’s Film Restoration project.

The occasion was a promotional shoot for the newly restored version of "Himala" — Ishmael Bernal’s 1982 masterpiece that remains one of the most iconic films in Philippine cinema. The shoot featured both Aunor and the film’s screenwriter, National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee.

To promote the film’s restored release, Katigbak’s team had an idea that bordered on audacious: to recreate the iconic “Gulod” scene from "Himala," in which Aunor’s character Elsa delivers her haunting monologue to a stunned crowd. It was a moment frozen in cinematic history, etched into the collective memory of Filipino film lovers. The question was — would Aunor agree to do it again?

“She had graciously obliged to redo the iconic poses from the movie,” Katigbak recounted. “That was a big moment for us and our young team, working with giants of cinema who welcomed us as peers, making for a fun and memorable shoot.”

For Katigbak and his colleagues, it wasn’t just about nostalgia or marketing — it was about celebrating the artistry of someone who helped shape the very fabric of Philippine cinema.

The restored "Himala" was a milestone for ABS-CBN Film Restoration, and having Nora Aunor herself involved in its re-presentation was both a privilege and an affirmation.

“I’m glad we were able to restore many of Nora’s classics,” Katigbak said. “Hopefully, her legend will live on for many generations to come.”

That sentiment resonates deeply, especially as the country reflects on the indelible mark Aunor left on the arts.

Born Nora Cabaltera Villamayor in 1953, she began her career in the 1960s as a singer, instantly captivating the public with her golden voice. But it was in film that her true genius emerged. With nuanced and fearless performances, Aunor elevated Filipino cinema to global heights.

From "Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos" (1976) to "Bulaklak sa City Jail" (1984) and "The Flor Contemplacion Story" (1995), she delivered portrayals that were raw, authentic, and socially resonant. Her awards were numerous — including Best Actress honors from Gawad Urian, FAMAS, and international film festivals — but more than accolades, it was the honesty in her performances that captured the hearts of Filipinos.

Through ABS-CBN Film Restoration’s efforts, many of Aunor’s finest works have been preserved and given new life for future generations to discover. And as Katigbak’s story reminds us, behind every restored frame is a team of passionate individuals — often starstruck, always inspired — working to ensure that legends like Nora Aunor remain immortal on screen.

As the curtains fall on a remarkable life and career, memories like this stand as a testament to her greatness — not just as an artist, but as someone who gave her all for every role, every song, every scene. And for those lucky enough to work alongside her, even for a day, that’s something they’ll carry forever.