Alona Alegre was a Filipino actress who rose to fame in the 1970s as a sex symbol and a leading lady of some of the biggest stars in Philippine cinema. She was also a controversial figure who became a pro-Marcos activist and was involved in several political scandals. She died of asthma and cardiac arrest on December 9, 2018, at the age of 70. This article will look back at her life, career, and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Alona Alegre was born Maria Lourdes Jalandoni Salvador on January 1, 1948, in Manila, Philippines. She was the daughter of comedian-director Lou Salvador Sr. and LVN actress Inday Jalandoni. She was one of the 102 children fathered by Lou Salvador, whose notable progeny includes actors Phillip Salvador and Ross Rival.
She started her acting career as a child star in the 1955 movie Tagapagmana, produced by LVN Pictures. She later appeared in several movies under the same studio, such as Nagbabagang Paraiso, DJ Dance Time, and Sa Bawa’t Pintig ng Puso.
She became a sex symbol in the 1960s and 1970s, starring in bold and daring movies such as Nympho, Desgraciada, and Psssst… Halika Babae. She also worked with some of the most popular actors of her time, such as Fernando Poe Jr., Joseph Estrada, Ramon Revilla, and Eddie Garcia.
Political Involvement and Controversies
Alona Alegre was a staunch supporter of former president Ferdinand Marcos, who ruled the Philippines from 1965 to 1986. She led a rally of Marcos loyalists at the Plaza Nuestra Señora de Guia in Ermita, Manila on May 1, 1987, according to Manila Standard. She was also charged with rebellion by the Northern Police District in the same year for her alleged participation in the January 27 takeover of the GMA Network television station, according to PEP.ph.
She was also linked to several politicians and military officials, such as former senator Juan Ponce Enrile, former defense minister Fabian Ver, and former general Jose Almonte. She was rumored to have been involved in the assassination plot against former senator Benigno Aquino Jr., who was killed on August 21, 1983, upon his return from exile in the United States.
Death and Legacy
Alona Alegre died of asthma and cardiac arrest on December 9, 2018, at a hospital. She was 70 years old. Her brother Phillip Salvador confirmed her death, but did not disclose the cause, according to ABS-CBN News.
She left behind a legacy as one of the most iconic and influential actresses in Philippine cinema. She was also a part of the history and culture of Panglao, Bohol, where a beach was named after her. She starred in the 1973 movie Esteban, which was filmed in the island. She often visited and swam in the beach, which became known as Alona Beach. The beach is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Panglao.
Alona Alegre was a woman who lived a colorful and controversial life. She was a sex symbol, a star, a rebel, and a legend. She was Alona Alegre.
