MANILA — The 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) celebrated Filipino cinema's vibrancy and creativity, with the historical movie 'Gomburza' clinching seven awards, including Best Director and Second Best Picture. 'Firefly,' a fantasy film, was awarded the Best Picture, along with Best Child Performer and Best Screenplay.
According to Philippines News Agency, MMFF Executive Chairman and MMDA Deputy Chairman, Undersecretary Frisco San Juan Jr., highlighted in his opening remarks the festival's commitment to promoting Filipino filmmaking talent. He praised this year's films for showcasing the diversity of the Philippine cinematic landscape. Other notable winners included 'Mallari' with four awards, and celebrated actress Vilma Santos, who won Best Actress for her role in "When I Met You in Tokyo." The festival, which is a significant platform for the local film industry, will have its entries screened at the Manila International Film Festival in Los Angeles in January 2024. The MMFF, an initiative of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, contributes proceeds to various beneficiaries within the film industry.