Ruru Madrid emerged as one of the standout winners at the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival’s (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal on December 27, taking home the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in ‘Green Bones’.
The prestigious ceremony was held at the Solaire Grand Ballroom in Parañaque City.
In ‘Green Bones’, produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs, Ruru plays Xavier Gonzaga, a prison guard determined to ensure that convicted inmate Domingo Zamora, played by Dennis Trillo, remains behind bars. Trillo also won Best Actor for his performance in the film, which went on to win Best Picture at this year’s MMFF.
Ruru was overcome with emotion as his name was announced, surpassing fellow nominees Sid Lucero, Jhong Hilario, Kokoy de Santos, and David Ezra. In his acceptance speech, Ruru reflected on his journey, sharing how he had often felt underestimated in the industry.
“Buong buhay ko, lagi po akong underdog. Lagi akong talo, na-a-underestimate, lagi akong binababa,” he said. Despite these struggles, Ruru revealed that such challenges taught him resilience and the value of hard work.
“Nu’ng una, nasasaktan ako, iniisip ko, ‘Bakit?’ But then I realized na kaya pala siya nangyayari sa akin, para ‘pag dumating ‘yung araw na ibibigay na sa akin ‘yung kapalit nu’n, katulad po nito, hindi ko po ite-take for granted lahat ng ‘yun.”
Ruru’s speech resonated with the audience as he offered words of encouragement to those who face self-doubt and adversity.
“Gusto ko lang din po sabihin ‘to, dahil alam kong marami pong nangangarap na sumusuko na lang dahil nauunahan sila ng takot… Pero naniniwala ako na basta ikaw naniniwala ka sa sarili mo na kaya mo, na mararating mo ‘yung pinapangarap mo, basta malinis ang intensyon mo, nagpupursige ka at pinipili mo maging mabuting tao sa lahat ng pagkakataon, makakamit mo ito.”
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Ruru’s win at the MMFF marks a significant milestone in his career, affirming his talent and dedication to his craft. Fans can look forward to seeing him on television once again in 2025, as he reprises his role as the Primetime Action Hero in ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’, set to premiere in January on GMA Prime.
