The enduring loveteam of Carmen Rosales and Rogelio dela Rosa started before World War II. Their first team-up was Takipsilim in 1940, produced by Sampaguita Pictures. It was followed by other pre-war Sampaguita hits like Señorita, Colegiala, Lambingan, Panambitan and Tampuhan (accompanying photo).
After World War II, in the early ’50s, Carmen and Rogelio continued appearing in Sampaguita films: Maalaala Mo Kaya, Ang Tangi Kong Pag-Ibig, Iyong-Iyo and Lydia.
Although not romantically involved offscreen, their tandem set the big screen on fire, in a manner of speaking. They had undeniable chemistry and rapport, making their loveteam one of the greatest in Philippine movies. —RKC