FDCP recognizes outstanding figures and films at the ‘Parangal ng Sining 2025’
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) recently held its third “Parangal Ng Sining” to celebrate significant contributions to the nation’s film heritage and its growing international prominence. The event, hosted at the Seda Vertis North in Quezon City, honored five individuals for their remarkable careers and two films for their artistic merit.
Recognizing Enduring Legacies
Four pillars of the local entertainment scene received Lifetime Achievement awards. The first of these went to former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada. Accepting the honor on his father’s behalf, Senator Jinggoy Estrada remarked, “My father was not just an actor and producer; he was a forward-thinker. His name is synonymous with Mowelfund and the Metro Manila Film Festival.”
The second Lifetime Achievement award was presented to Laurice Guillen, an accomplished actress, director, and head of the Cinemalaya Foundation. In her acceptance speech, Guillen articulated a strong belief in the power of art: “Being an artist comes with a serious social responsibility. There’s a story to tell, a vital message to share, and its impact on the audience. In making films, no matter the scale, one shapes the culture of the community around us. Fortunately, our work is collaborative. We exchange ideas and learn from one another.”
Independent filmmaker Lav Diaz, known for his critically praised work, was the third recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award. Introduced by actor John Lloyd Cruz, Diaz addressed the audience in Filipino, stating that the work of cultural workers like himself is ongoing. “For as long as there’s violence, poverty and injustice, there’s work to do,” he asserted.
The final Lifetime Achievement honor of the evening went to Charo Santos-Concio, recognized for her significant impact as an actress, producer, and media leader throughout her extensive career. In her speech, Santos-Concio expressed gratitude to her colleagues over her 50 years in the industry. “Filmmaking is the ultimate collaborative medium. No one can claim solo credit to any film. Everyone has to put his heart into making a good film,” she emphasized.
Annual Achievements in Focus
The “Parangal ng Sining” also acknowledged outstanding achievements in the past year. Versatile actress Judy Ann Santos received the Annual Achievement Award for her “nuanced yet powerful performance in Espantaho, which earned her the Best Actress Award at the prestigious Fantasporto Film Festival.” In a video message, Santos expressed that the recognition provided her with “many good reasons and inspiration to love the movie industry even more.”
Another Annual Achievement Award was bestowed upon the film Sunshine, a compelling psychological coming-of-age story directed by Antoinette Jadaone and starring Maris Racal. The film, which bravely explores themes like abortion, achieved international recognition by winning the Crystal Bear for Best Film in the Generation 14plus section at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival in February.
The rotoscope-animated film Iti Mapukpukaw, directed by Carl Joseph Papa and featuring Carlo Aquino, Dolly de Leon, and Gio Gahol, also received an Annual Achievement Award. This Filipino Ilocano film drew praise from critics for its sincere depiction of grief, depression, and self-discovery. Its global impact was further solidified when it received the Best Animated Film award at the 17th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, highlighting the growing influence of Philippine animation on the world stage.
The evening’s program was gracefully hosted by Iza Calzado and featured moving musical numbers from Nyoy Volante, Rachel Alejandro, Arman Ferrer, Nicole Asensio, Jeffrey Hidalgo, and Cookie Chua.
