The son of veteran actress Eva Darren has accepted the apology from the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences Awards (FAMAS) following an incident where the actress was not acknowledged as a presenter at a recent event.
In a Facebook post, Fernando de la Pena responded to FAMAS’s apology, expressing gratitude for the support extended to his mother.
“Ms. Eva Darren has found some comfort in the midst of a loving family which includes you all,” Fernando wrote. “My mom is one tough cookie, she is a battle-tested survivor of life’s arena.”
Fernando recalled his childhood and his mother’s dedication to providing for their education.
“It is far from our intention to ruffle feathers and in fact, our upbringing inclined towards avoiding trouble at all cost often at our emotional expense,” he shared.
He also highlighted the significance of his mother’s FAMAS Best Supporting Actress trophy for her role in the 1969 film ‘Ang Pulubi,’ underscoring the respect their family has for the award-giving body.
“One of the very few treasured possessions we have. We revered FAMAS and everything it stands for,” Fernando said.
“This is why what happened to my mother, in the eyes of our family, was incomprehensible, unexpected, unimaginable,” he added. “I firmly believe that what hurt my mother the most is disappointing her apos who tagged along in the hopes of seeing grandma on stage.”
Fernando clarified that veteran actor Tirso Cruz III and FAMAS PR Officer Renz Spangler were not responsible for the mishap and were also affected by the backstage error.
Despite the incident, Fernando stated that their family accepts FAMAS’s apology.
“For the reasons I stated above and on behalf of my mother, Ms. Eva Darren, our family accepts the olive branch that FAMAS has extended and only hope that future events would prove to be contrasting,” he wrote.
Concluding his message, Fernando offered a suggestion to FAMAS for future ceremonies: “I understand that we are but a small voice in the back row of a rowdy crowd, but if I may humbly, personally, recommend two things for the 73rd FAMAS Awards Night: Please stick to the script… and maybe a nice pair of eyeglasses for all in charge.”
The incident began when Eva Darren, who was supposed to be a presenter, was overlooked during the event, leading to the family’s frustration. FAMAS later issued an apology, acknowledging the mistake.
