The 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal, held on December 27 at Solaire Resort Manila, has sparked online controversy following the reactions of presenters Sue Ramirez and Cristine Reyes during the announcement of the Best Supporting Actor award.
Ramirez and Reyes, along with Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo, took the stage to present the award. As they prepared to announce the winner, Sid Lucero’s name was mentioned twice—once for his performance in ‘Topakk’ and another for ‘The Kingdom’. During this moment, a remark by Reyes was faintly heard on the livestream, saying, “Kailangan si Sid ’to ah…”
When Ruru Madrid was ultimately declared the winner for his role in ‘Green Bones’, netizens observed what they interpreted as visible disbelief from Reyes and Ramirez. Their reactions quickly drew criticism online, with many viewers calling their behavior unprofessional.
“Kailangan si Sid to ah…”
Okay lang ba si Cristine Reyes?!?
Disappointed si girl. #MMFF50GabiNgParangal
Rappler pic.twitter.com/6QgawNOvzc
— Ate Chona (@AteChona23) December 27, 2024
Dalawang bitter spotted! Congrats Ruru Madrid! Best supporting actor #MMFF50GabiNgParangal pic.twitter.com/2UrR5b9Hbi
— Ultimates_Lira (@OgLira) December 27, 2024
Nagsama pa si Sue at Cristine walang character development
Kahit anong result no bias as professional https://t.co/nOhBD10tFb— (@Bheaven14) December 27, 2024
Medyo bastos si Sue at Cristine while saying the nominees for Best supporting Actor. Lalo na sa Cast ng And the Bread winner is. #MMFF50GabiNgParangal
— (@Rhem004) December 27, 2024
Despite the controversy, Ruru Madrid received the Best Supporting Actor award for his portrayal of prison guard Xavier Gonzaga in ‘Green Bones’, a film produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs. He triumphed over fellow nominees Sid Lucero, Jhong Hilario, Kokoy de Santos, and David Ezra.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Madrid shared his struggles and perseverance throughout his career: “Buong buhay ko, lagi po akong underdog. Lagi akong talo, na-a-underestimate, lagi akong binababa,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of resilience, adding: “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.”
Madrid concluded his speech by encouraging dreamers to believe in themselves: “Basta ikaw naniniwala ka sa sarili mo na kaya mo, na mararating mo ’yung pinapangarap mo… makakamit mo ito.”
In ‘Green Bones’, Madrid plays Xavier Gonzaga, a dedicated prison guard determined to keep prisoner Domingo Zamora (portrayed by Best Actor winner Dennis Trillo) behind bars despite his parole application.
This marks a significant milestone in Madrid’s career, highlighting his growth as an actor.
In January 2025, Ruru Madrid will return to television as the titular character in ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’, airing on GMA Prime.
Congratulations to Ruru Madrid on this well-deserved recognition!
