Metro Manila, Philippines – Actors Maris Racal and Will Ashley marked major milestones in their careers after winning acting honors at the 49th Gawad Urian Awards on Thursday, Oct. 8, where the documentary Bloom “Where You Are Planted” won Best Picture.
Racal received her first Gawad Urian Best Actress award for her performance in “Sunshine,” sharing the honor with veteran actress Odette Khan, who was recognized for “Bar Boys: After School.”
Ashley, meanwhile, won Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Arvin Asuncion in Bar Boys: After School, marking a breakthrough for the young actor.
The ceremony, organized by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, was held at the Teresa Yuchengco Auditorium of De La Salle University-Manila.
Racal’s victory was an emotional moment for her, who had previously spoken about dreaming of receiving a Gawad Urian award. Director Antoinette Jadaone also shared a video of Racal’s tearful reaction after her name was announced.
The Best Actress award was one of two ties in the major acting categories.
Jericho Rosales and Carlo Aquino shared the Best Actor award for their performances in “Quezon and Bar Boys: After School,” respectively.
Rosales, who portrayed former President Manuel L. Quezon in the historical drama, received his second Gawad Urian Best Actor award, following his earlier win for “Alagwa.”
Aquino, meanwhile, earned his first Best Actor award from the film critics’ group. His wife, actress Charlie Dizon, accepted the trophy on his behalf.
The supporting acting categories also recognized Jennica Garcia, who won Best Supporting Actress for “Sunshine,” giving the film two acting awards.
“Bar Boys: After School” collected three acting awards through Aquino, Khan and Ashley.
‘Bloom Where You Are Planted’ takes Best Picture
The documentary, “Bloom Where You Are Planted,” credited to Alex Poblete and Taripnong Cagayan Valley, took home four awards, including Best Picture.
Noni Abao won Best Direction, while Che Tagyamon received Best Editing. The film also secured Best Documentary.
Historical drama “Quezon” matched its four-award haul, winning Best Actor, Best Cinematography for Pong Ignacio, Best Production Design for Monica Sebial and Best Music for Jerrold Tarog.
Veteran filmmaker and actress Laurice Guillen received the Natatanging Gawad Urian, recognizing her contributions to Philippine cinema.
The annual Gawad Urian Awards, established in 1976, recognize achievements in filmmaking and performances selected by members of the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino.
