Carl Joseph Papa's groundbreaking Filipino-Ilocano rotoscope animated feature, 'Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing),' not only marked a historic moment as the first animated full-length film to compete in the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival but also etched its name further by taking home the Balanghai trophy for Best Film award during the closing ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center on Sunday night.
Its star, BAFTA and Golden Globe nominee Dolly de Leon, also received the Best Supporting Actress. Portraying Rosalinda, the mother of Eric – the mouthless protagonist played by Carlo Aquino, de Leon expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that it was her first award acceptance in the country.
'Thank you very much to all of you. Wow, this is my first time to receive and speak for an award here in the Philippines. It feels good,' de Leon, in Tagalog, said in her speech.
This was her second time winning a local acting award after her FAMAS Best Supporting Actress award in 2020 for the film 'Verdict.' However, she received the trophy at home due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Apart from 'Iti Mapukpukaw,' De Leon also starred in 'Ang Duyan ng Magiting,' which received the Special Jury Prize and Best Ensemble Acting award.
The Best Short Film award went to 'Sibuyas ni Perfecto (Perfecto's Onion).'
Best Director trophies were given to Ryan Espinosa Machado for full-length feature 'Huling Palabas' and Mike Cabarles for his short 'Makoko Sa Baybay.'
Jopy Arnaldo of full-length feature 'Gitling' and Arvin Belarmino of short feature 'Hinakdal' — also a NETPAC award winning film — received the Best Screenplay awards.
Mikoy Morales and Pat Tingjuy won Best Actor and Actress for 'Tether' and 'Rookie,' respectively.
Bon Andrew Lentejas won Best Supporting Actor for 'Huling Palabas.'
Other awards included Audience Choice for 'Rookie' and 'Hinakdal,' Best Editing for 'Rookie,' Best Cinematography for 'When This Is All Over,' Best Original Musical Score for 'When This Is All Over,' Best Production Design for 'When This Is All Over,' Best Sound Design for 'Tether,' and a Special Jury Award for 'HM HM MHM.'