Rebecca Lusterio, the actress who rose to fame for her performance as Kalbo in the classic film “Muro-ami,” gave a message of gratitude to Cesar Montano for discovering her.

In a video message on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” on Wednesday, the former actress shared her appreciation for her Kuya Buboy.

“I was so happy when I found out that ‘Muro-ami’ would be shown again in theaters,” she said.

Rebecca added that she did not expect to be in another movie after “Muro-ami,” but was given another chance in Cesar’s “Panaghoy sa Suba.”

After that film, she was given a scholarship by Colegio de San Juan de Letran.

“Kuya Buboy, thank you very, very much for the opportunities and trust you gave me. Because of that trust, many good things opened up for me, and that’s something I will always be grateful for,” she said.

Cesar then thanked Rebecca for her talent.

“She is a great actress. For you to win a best supporting actress award, wow, it’s like passing through the eye of a needle,” he said.

The remastered “Muro-ami” begins today. It is directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya and written by Ricky Lee and Jun Robles Lana.

Aside from Cesar and Rebecca, the film also starred Pen Medina, Jhong Hilario, and Amy Austria.

The movie tackled the controversial and dangerous practice of using child divers in destructive fishing methods.

“It showed the illegal fishing method historically practiced on coral reefs in the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia.

Muro-ami

Muro-ami is a destructive fishing method historically practiced in the Philippines, involving the use of heavy stones or concrete blocks attached to nets to drive fish into coral reefs, where they are then scooped up. This technique, which dates back to the early 20th century, caused severe damage to marine ecosystems and coral habitats. Due to its environmental impact, muro-ami was banned in the Philippines in the 1980s, though illegal use has occasionally persisted.

Panaghoy sa Suba

Panaghoy sa Suba is a historical and cultural site in the Philippines, located in Carcar City, Cebu. It commemorates the poignant “Cry of the River” event during the Philippine Revolution, where local residents mourned and resisted Spanish colonial forces. The site serves as a reminder of the region’s struggle for independence and is often used for cultural performances and historical reenactments.

Colegio de San Juan de Letran

Colegio de San Juan de Letran is a private Catholic college in Manila, Philippines, founded in 1620 by the Dominican Order, making it one of the oldest educational institutions in Asia. Originally established as a school for orphaned and poor Spanish boys, it later expanded to serve Filipino students and has since played a significant role in Philippine history, counting national hero José Rizal among its notable alumni.

Philippines

The Philippines is an archipelago in Southeast Asia composed of over 7,600 islands, with a rich history shaped by indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization from 1565 to 1898, and American influence in the early 20th century. It became a U.S. commonwealth in 1935, gained independence in 1946, and today is known for its vibrant traditions, diverse languages, and landmarks such as the historic walled city of Intramuros in Manila. The country’s cultural heritage blends Malay, Spanish, and American elements, visible in its festivals, cuisine, and Catholic-majority population.

Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a culturally diverse region comprising countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, with a history shaped by ancient kingdoms, colonial rule, and trade networks. It was home to powerful empires such as the Khmer and Srivijaya, and later experienced European colonization, which influenced its modern borders and cultures. Today, the region is known for its vibrant traditions, stunning temples, and dynamic cities that reflect a blend of indigenous and foreign influences.