Some of the biggest names in Philippine entertainment were honored at the 41st Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Movies, held Sunday night at the newly revamped Makabagong San Juan Theater.
The mystery-crime thriller ‘Uninvited’ emerged as the evening’s biggest winner, taking home seven major awards, including Movie of the Year and Movie Director of the Year for Dan Villegas. Its lead stars also triumphed, with Vilma Santos winning Movie Actress of the Year—her 10th career win—and Aga Muhlach sharing the Movie Actor of the Year trophy for his role in the same film.
Tying with Muhlach for Movie Actor of the Year was Dennis Trillo for his acclaimed performance in ‘Green Bones,’ which also earned multiple awards, including Movie Screenwriter of the Year for National Artist Ricky Lee and Anj Atienza, and Movie Editor of the Year for Benjamin Tolentino. Trillo was also named Male Star of the Night.
Rising stars likewise shined, as Kaila Estrada was named New Movie Actress of the Year for ‘Un/Happy For You,’ while Will Ashley took home New Movie Actor of the Year for his role in ‘Balota.’ Young performer Ryrie Sophia also earned the Movie Child Performer of the Year award for ‘Mujigae.’
Supporting acting winners included Sunshine Cruz for ‘Lola Magdalena’ and Harvey Bautista for ‘Pushcart Tales.’
‘Uninvited’ continued its sweep with wins for Movie Cinematographer of the Year (Pao Orendain), Movie Production Designer of the Year (Mic Tatad King), and Movie Ensemble Acting of the Year.
Meanwhile, blockbuster royalties Alden Richards and Kathryn Bernardo were officially crowned Takilya King and Queen for their record-breaking hit ‘Hello, Love, Again,’ now the highest-grossing Filipino film of all time with over ₱1 billion in ticket sales.
Other notable recognitions included Indie Movie of the Year for ‘AbeNida,’ Indie Movie Director of the Year for Louie Ignacio, and multiple victories across indie categories for ‘Moro,’ ‘Her Locket,’ ‘Outside,’ and ‘Mamay: A Journey To Greatness.’
Lifetime Achievement Awards were given to Alma Moreno and Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. (Nora Aunor Ulirang Artista Award), Jesse Ejercito (Ulirang Alagad Behind the Camera Award), and Mercy Lejarde and Crispina Belen (Ethel Ramos Dean’s Lister Award).
Hosting the ceremony were Gladys Reyes, Marlo Mortel, and Miss Grand International 2024 CJ Opiaza, who led the night in honoring excellence, artistry, and impact in Filipino cinema.
