Kapamilya TV host Luis Manzano voiced his disappointment over the results of the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal, particularly the lack of recognition for Uninvited, a film featuring his mother, Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos.
On December 28, Luis reshared a post from a netizen on his Facebook account, expressing frustration over the absence of nominations for ‘Uninvited’, including for its cast members Aga Muhlach and Vilma Santos. Luis captioned the post with, “Labo, kahit nomination”, indicating his confusion over the omission.
The post sparked various reactions from netizens, with many expressing support for the film and calling for justice for Uninvited, while others critiqued the MMFF’s selection process. Some also expressed surprise over the results, particularly the win of Judy Ann Santos over Vilma Santos.
Despite the reactions, Luis clarified that he was not criticizing the winners but rather questioning the lack of recognition for Uninvited in the nominations.
“Nomination pinaguusapan, hindi winners. Magpababa muna po kayo ng tama, balik ka nalang pag ok ka na po,” he stated.
In response to growing speculations about possible manipulation of the results, MMFF spokesperson Noel Ferrer took to social media to address the concerns and assure the public that the selection process was fair and transparent.
Ferrer explained that the jury had thoroughly deliberated the nominees and winners, adding, “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.”
He also clarified that the results were kept confidential, with only the Jury Chair and the MMFF Executive Director knowing the winners ahead of time.
“They have exhaustively deliberated and decided on the nominees and the winners from 9am-4:30pm yesterday… No leaks, definitely no cooking show… only the Jury Chair and the MMFF Executive Director knew the results, not even I or any member of the Execom,” Ferrer emphasized.
Ferrer reassured the public that the selection process was thorough, fair, and final, addressing any doubts about the integrity of the awards show.
