Actress and Miss Universe Philippines 1982 titleholder Maria Isabel Lopez revealed on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda that one of her biggest regrets in her career was turning down a film offer from the late National Artist for Film, Lino Brocka.
During the interview, host Boy Abunda asked if she had any regrets about doing sexy films in the past. Lopez responded that she had no regrets about her choices but admitted she once prioritized talent fees over artistic opportunities.
“Wala akong regrets. Ang only regret ko lang siguro is I focused more on the money I make, on the talent fee, and not on like who’s the director,” she said.
She then shared that she declined a Brocka film because of its low budget, a decision she now looks back on with regret. However, she did not disclose which film she had turned down.
Moving Forward
Aside from reflecting on her career, Lopez also shared that her issues with Binibining Pilipinas have been resolved. The controversy stemmed from her exclusion from the pageant’s 50th anniversary in 2013, but she confirmed that all is well now and even plans to attend next year’s pageant.
A Respected Career
Maria Isabel Lopez has appeared in numerous films, including:
- Isla (1985)
- Daughters of Eve (1985)
- Kinatay (2009) – for which she won Best Supporting Actress at the Gawad Tanglaw and Golden Screen Awards
- Ways of the Sea (2010)
- Lorna (2014)
- Ma’ Rosa (2016)
While she may have missed the chance to work with Lino Brocka, her career remains filled with notable performances and accolades.