Philippine showbiz cannot ignore the iconic rivalry between **Nora Aunor** and **Vilma Santos**, the two brightest stars in the country’s film history. This rivalry is said to have begun in **1972**, at the **3rd Quezon City Film Festival**, where both were recognized as major icons of the silver screen.

At that year’s festival, Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos stood side by side on an important stage for the first time, each bringing a blockbuster film that represented their talent and charisma. Nora participated with the film **”And God Smiled at Me”**, while Vilma starred in **”Dama de Noche”**.

This event became the beginning of a rivalry that lasted for decades, as audiences, media, and showbiz constantly put the two on the scale. The rivalry between Nora and Vilma was not only about talent but also represented two different styles:

– **Nora Aunor**, known as “Superstar,” portrayed a down-to-earth, down-to-earth woman who represented the working class.

– **Vilma Santos**, “Star for All Seasons,” portrayed glamour, elegance, and was often associated with the upper class.

This not only divided audiences but also created two of the most passionate fandoms in Philippine entertainment history.

At the 3rd Quezon City Film Festival, both actresses received grand prizes for their outstanding performances. However, this very same level of talent intensified the rivalry between them, as audiences began to argue who was the “biggest star.”

A critic at the time commented:

“Nora and Vilma were like two poles of a magnet. They were so different that they could not be compared, but that only made them more attractive to the public.”*

While the media constantly exaggerated the “rivalry” relationship between the two actresses, some close sources said that they truly respected each other’s talents. Both Nora and Vilma have shared that the competition helped them improve themselves and reach new heights in their careers.

Vilma once said in an interview:

“I don’t see it as competition, but as inspiration. We push each other to be better.”*

Although the rivalry between Nora and Vilma has receded into the past, their appeal has not diminished. Both continue to be immortal icons, deeply influencing many generations of young artists.

**Memories at the 3rd Quezon City Film Festival 1972** was not only a milestone in the careers of Nora Aunor and Vilma Santos, but also marked the beginning of one of the greatest rivalry stories in Philippine cultural history.