The 51st Metro Manila Film Festival concluded with a night of triumphs, celebrating Filipino storytelling and artistic achievement. Raymond Red’s gripping crime drama,Manila’s Finest, emerged as a major force, claiming eight coveted awards and solidifying its place as a standout film of the year.
The film, a stark portrayal of Manila police officers navigating a complex moral landscape in the early 1970s, resonated deeply with the judges. Its accolades included Third Best Picture – shared withCall Me Mother– alongside wins for Best Cinematography, Production Design, Musical Score, Sound Design, Original Song (“Sandalan”), Best Float, and the prestigious Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award.
However, the night also belonged to a different kind of love story.I’mPerfect, a groundbreaking romance featuring actors with Down Syndrome, captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike, earning the top prize: Best Picture. This victory marked a significant moment for representation in Filipino cinema.
Krystel Go, the film’s leading lady, delivered a profoundly moving performance, earning the Best Actress award. Her acceptance speech was a powerful testament to the importance of inclusivity, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to give voice to a community often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Close behind,Unmarry, a poignant exploration of a couple’s separate journeys through annulment, garnered seven awards, including Second Best Picture and Best Director for Jeffrey Jeturian. The film’s raw honesty and emotional depth clearly struck a chord with the festival judges.
Jane Basas, CEO of MediaQuest Ventures, accepted the Gatpuno J. Villegas Cultural Award forManila’s Finest, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to culturally relevant storytelling. She highlighted the film’s ambition, historical grounding, and ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level.
A historic moment unfolded as Vice Ganda claimed the Best Actor award for their role as an adoptive mother inCall Me Mother. This win shattered barriers, marking the first time a queer performer has received this honor in the MMFF’s history, signaling a shift towards greater inclusivity within the industry.
Beyond the major awards, recognition was also given to emerging talents. Zac Sibug received the Breakthrough Performance award for his work inUnmarry, while Lucas Andalio was celebrated as Best Child Performer for his role inCall Me Mother. These acknowledgements underscore the festival’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of Filipino filmmakers.
The festival’s complete list of winners reveals a diverse range of cinematic achievements.Bar Boys: After Schoolreceived the Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence, whileCall Me Motherwas recognized for its Gender Sensitivity. Awards were also presented for Screenplay, Editing, Visual Effects, and Theme Song, showcasing the breadth of talent within the Filipino film industry.
Film screenings continue nationwide through the first week of January, offering audiences the chance to experience these award-winning stories and celebrate the vibrant world of Filipino cinema.
Full List of Winners:
Best Picture:I’mPerfect
2nd Best Picture:Unmarry
3rd Best Picture:Manila’s FinestandCall Me Mother
Best Director: Jeffrey Jeturian,Unmarry
Best Actress: Krystel Go,I’mPerfect
Best Actor: Vice Ganda,Call Me Mother
Best Supporting Actor: Tom Rodriguez,Unmarry
Best Supporting Actress: Odette Khan,Bar Boys: After School
Breakthrough Performance: Zac Sibug,Unmarry
Best Child Performer: Lucas Andalio,Call Me Mother
Best Screenplay: Chris Martinez, Therese Cayaba,Unmarry
Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award:Manila’s Finest
Fernando Poe Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence:Bar Boys: After School
Gender Sensitivity:Call Me Mother
Best Cinematography: Raymond Red,Manila’s Finest
Best Editing: Benjo Ferrer,Unmarry
Best Production Design: Digo Ricio,Manila’s Finest
Best Visual Effects: Santelmo, Inc.,Shake Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins
Best Original Theme Song: “Sandalan” by Vehnee Saturno,Manila’s Finest
Best Score: Frederik Sandoval, Emerzon Texon,Manila’s Finest
Best Sound: Roy Santos,Manila’s Finest
Best Float:UnmarryandManila’s Finest
