MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The newly renovated art deco cultural landmark that is the Metropolitan Theater served as the fitting backdrop as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) held the first in-person staging of the Film Ambassadors’ Night, now on its 6th edition, that was previously conducted virtually due to the pandemic.
The momentous occasion — which highlighted the dedication of the filmmaking community for overcoming a challenging year of creating films amidst the global health crisis, thus the theme “Beyond Limits” — brought together filmmakers, performers, artists, film workers, members of the media, and supportive friends and family as they celebrated a night of cinematic pride and achievement. Feted on stage were 77 new Film Ambassadors, all in recognition of their success in bringing Filipino artistic talents to film festivals abroad.
In her welcome remarks, FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño said, “It is truly incredible to be able to celebrate in hybrid and in person for the first time in the last two years. I can’t tell you how amazing it is to finally meet all of you personally and hear your stories of challenges, of coping, and of creating amazing stories out of all kinds of inspiration.”
There were 25 honorees for the Short Film category, nine for documentaries, two creative awards, seven actors, three directors, nine feature films, and two special citations were awarded and given their well-deserved moment.
In 2021, the country received 13 hard-earned spots at A-List Festivals which are already a recognition itself. Some of the most prestigious in the global festivals are Toronto International Film Festival, Busan International Film Festival, Tokyo International Film Festival, Locarno Film Festival, and Venice International Film Festival, where Filipino films won in various categories. To give merit to these victories, “Gensan Punch” by Brilante Mendoza, “Whether The Weather Is Fine” (Kun Maupay Man It Panahon) by Carlo Francisco Manatad, and Mr. John Arcilla were all awarded as A-Lister Film Ambassadors.
The FDCP also conferred the Gabay ng Industriya Award to individuals who have made outstanding accomplishments during their long careers, becoming respected pillars of the Philippine film industry. Tribute videos were presented for each of the Haligi ng Industriya and Ilaw ng Industriya Awardees which inspired heartfelt messages from friends from the industry and beloved family.
Councilor Jana Ejercito shared his father Mr. Jesse Ejercito’s message of thanks to the audience for his Haligi ng Industriya Award. Ms. Rosa Rosal’s daughter, actress Toni Rose Gayda and grandnephew, news anchor William Thio shared the stage to receive the Ilaw ng Industriya Award for Ms. Rosal.
Meanwhile, the highest honor granted by the FDCP for exceptional films or individuals that blazed new trails in various fields of cinema is the Camera Obscura Excellence Award which was bestowed on Mr. John Arcilla, who dedicated the award to his family and colleagues.
“An actor is a mirror of everything that is happening within and outside him. An actor’s work is a reflection of everything that surrounds him. A film should entertain and liberate minds. Nawa po ay patuloy tayong gumawa ng mga pelikula na lalong magpapakilala sa makulay na kultura at kasaysayan ng Pilipinas sa mundo, upang makita nila iyong sinasabi ko na hindi tayo naiiba sa kanila,” Arcilla said as he expressed his gratitude to the industry.
His film “On the Job: The Missing 8” (OTJ) was also awarded the Camera Obscura which was received by producer Dondon Monteverde.
Monteverde said in his speech, “Mahaba talaga ang naging journey ng project na ito. Masayang masaya kami sa mga naabot namin, being acknowledged at prestigious festivals like Venice is already a big honor for us. Dahil dito, we want to continue doing content like this. As I always tell my peers: continue dreaming, never give up, dahil world-class talaga ang mga Pilipino.”
This 6th Film Ambassadors’ Night was made possible through a partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA). In his short video of support, NCCA Chairperson Arsenio “Nick” Lizaso sent his warmest felicitations to the FDCP and all who contribute to the nation’s art and culture. FDCP also partnered with CMB Film Services for their assistance with technical facilities and crew for the grand celebration. The event was directed by singer-songwriter and film and event director Ice Seguerra.
The 6th Film Ambassadors’ Night will have its telecast exclusively via the FDCP Channel on Mar. 12, 2022, Saturday, at 8PM. Stay tuned to the social media pages of the Film Development Council of the Philippines for access and instructions.
