WATCH: Nora Aunor’s restored classic movies

Nora Aunor, the Philippines' "Superstar," boasts a filmography exceeding 170 movies, filled with award-winning performances that have solidified her legendary status. Many remember her for roles in iconic films like 'Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo,' 'Ikaw ay Akin,' and 'Bona,' each showcasing her exceptional acting talent.

Thanks to the Sagip Pelikula Project, a vital initiative by ABS-CBN Film Archives and Central Digital Lab, a selection of these cinematic gems have been meticulously restored. This project ensures that new generations can witness the brilliance of Aunor's early works and appreciate the rich history of Filipino cinema.

Among the restored treasures is 'Himala' (1982), a religious drama directed by Ishmael Bernal and penned by Ricky Lee. This masterpiece, set in the fictional town of Cupang, tells the story of Elsa, a young woman who seemingly gains healing powers after an apparition. 'Himala' swept the 1982 Metro Manila Film Festival and garnered international acclaim, including a Bronze Hugo at the Chicago International Film Festival, cementing its place as a cornerstone of Philippine cinema. And who can forget the film's unforgettable line, "Walang himala!"?

'Minsa’y Isang Gamu-gamo' (1976), directed by Lupita Aquino-Kashiwara, presents another powerful performance from Aunor. The film follows Cora, a nurse with aspirations for a better life in the US. Her dreams are tragically disrupted when her brother is killed by an American soldier in a heartbreaking case of mistaken identity. This award-winning film is also known for another of Aunor’s memorable lines: “My brother is not a pig!”

Delving into a historical period, 'Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos' (1976), directed by Mario O’Hara, is set during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in the 1940s. Nora Aunor portrays Rosario, a school teacher whose life takes a dramatic turn when she is violated by a Japanese military officer while her fiancé is away fighting as a guerrilla. This film received accolades, including Best Picture at the FAMAS Awards, and further highlighted Aunor's dramatic range, earning her Best Actress awards.

'T-Bird at Ako' (1982), directed by Danny Zialcita, offers a different kind of narrative, exploring romantic tension between two women. In this film, Aunor plays Sylvia Salazar, a lawyer who finds herself drawn to a dancer, Sabel, played by Vilma Santos, as she defends her in a homicide case. This unique movie, tackling themes of same-sex attraction, brought together two of Philippine cinema's biggest stars in a compelling and unconventional story.

Finally, 'Banaue: Stairway to the Sky' (1975), directed by Gerardo de Leon, transports viewers to the stunning landscapes of the Banaue Rice Terraces. Aunor portrays Banaue, the daughter of a chieftain, fiercely determined to protect her tribe's ancestral lands from invaders. This film, noted for its cultural significance and featuring mature themes, provides a glimpse into a different facet of Filipino heritage and Aunor's versatility as an actress.