The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024 Gabi ng Parangal, held on December 27 at Solaire Resort Entertainment City, drew heavy criticism from netizens due to alleged disorganization, lengthy program flow, and confusion surrounding a tribute segment featuring actress Eugene Domingo.
Social media erupted after viewers mistakenly believed Domingo had been included in an “In Memoriam” segment for departed industry legends. The misunderstanding fueled criticism of the event, with some calling it the “worst awards show” in the festival’s history.
To address the controversy, MMFF spokesperson Noel Ferrer clarified that the performance by Arman Ferrer, Mark Bautista, Robert Sena, and John Arcilla was a tribute to icons who contributed to the festival’s 50-year history, not an “In Memoriam” segment.
“Just to clarify – the number of @armanfferrer, @iammarkbautista, Robert Sena, & @johnarcilla was a tribute number to MMFF icons through the 50 years…hindi po in memoriam,” Ferrer stated in a Facebook post.
Ferrer also expressed disappointment over the lack of appreciation for the performers’ efforts, writing, “SANA MAN LANG NA APPRECIATE NA ANG HUHUSAY NG MGA NAG-PERFORM KAGABI.”
Netizens were quick to share their grievances about the awards night, criticizing its extended duration, technical glitches, and perceived lack of preparation. Others pointed out issues with the presenters’ performances, labeling the event as chaotic.
First, inisnub nyo ang isang Eugene Domingo na isa sa beteranang aktress at nagbigay ng walang tapong performance sa ATBWI. Ngayon, ginawa nyong patay??
Eugene Domingo didn’t last this long in this industry for you to disrespect her. APOLOGIZE TO HER!!
#MMFF50GabiNgParangal pic.twitter.com/dGlsEFeVwl
— o’brien (@deeplyfrost) December 27, 2024
why did the mmff flash eugene domingo’s photo during the in memoriam section ??!?!?!?!? she’s literally in the audience pic.twitter.com/423YODc4ns
— jean starkey (@kaiseunghan) December 27, 2024
Ang haba na ng Awards Night wala man lang nakaisip mag-apologize muna kay Eugene Domingo
— TINO (@yourcupoftino) December 27, 2024
Ang husay din ni Uge sa espantaho at and the breadwinner is. Baka nakalimutan #MMFF50 https://t.co/DY8jNGYX9Q
— ogie diaz (@ogiediaz) December 27, 2024
Eugene Domingo after makita face n’ya sa screen pic.twitter.com/CNQtedEv6f
— Justbriel (@porkssilog) December 27, 2024
Gagi ba’t naman nasali si Eugene Domingo sa hanay ng mga namayapang artista, MMFF??? #MMFF50GabiNgParangal pic.twitter.com/LFnlIgaS0E
— • (@galitsamgaboboo) December 27, 2024
Aside from production issues, the MMFF faced criticism over the selection of winners. Ferrer defended the judging process, asserting that it was conducted with fairness and integrity.
“You may agree or disagree with their choices…but the integrity of each and every member of the Jury since we took charge in 2016, especially on this 50th Edition of the MMFF, cannot be assailed,” Ferrer said.
The jury, chaired by UP Film Institute professor emeritus Nicanor Tiongson, included notable figures such as FDCP Chairperson Joey Javier Reyes, actor John Arcilla, and producer Jesse Ejercito.
Despite the controversy, the film ‘Green Bones’, starring Dennis Trillo and Judy Ann Santos, emerged as the night’s biggest winner. The movie bagged several major awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Trillo, solidifying its status as a must-watch entry in this year’s festival.
