Singer-songwriter Ice Seguerra, husband of outgoing Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) chair Liza Diño, has opened up on his wife being replaced by seasoned actor Tirso Cruz III.
"No matter how much you plan or prepare for the future, may mga pwedeng mangyari that will totally change the course of your life," he posted on Facebook.
According to Ice, they're still processing the news because they just found out about it through social media.
"Though her term is still good for another 3 years, we respect the decision of the President," he related.
Liza served the national film agency as an appointee of then-President Rodrigo Roa Duterte starting in 2016.
Her term was extended until 2021.
Last March, Duterte re-appointed Liza as FDCP chair anew.
She was supposed to serve another three-year term that would last until 2025 but for Tirso’s appointment.
More than anything, Ice thanked the supporters of Liza.
"As someone who has been in the sidelines as my wife's cheerleader, shock absorber, assistant, and over-all supporter, I have witnessed many ups and downs during her term as Chairperson," he shared.
"Pumasok si Liza sa trabaho na 'to na halos walang naniniwala sa kakayanan niyang mamuno. 'Sino ba siya at anong magagawa niya?' 'Mas marami namang karapatdapat, bakit siya yung nilagay diyan?' Maraming skeptical sa simula pero kahit ganon, my wife used it to fan her passion to serve," he pointed out. "Inalam niya lahat ng pwedeng malaman sa industriya natin, from cultivating an idea and developing it into a story, archiving, and everything in between. She went to different regions to empower our filmmakers dahil ang kwento ng Pilipinas ay hindi dapat manggaling lang sa Metro Manila."
Ice said Liza "democratized access" to development programs, grants, and financial support.
"Para masiguradong hindi lamang iilan ang makikinabang," he maintained.
He also attested how his wife partnered with different international festivals to make sure locals always have a platform to showcase the works of Filipino filmmakers.
"Ayuda sa pandemya, vaccinations para sa industriya...," he added. "Pero para sa akin, ang pinakaimportanteng legacy na iiwanan niya ay ang pagsulong ng karapatan at proteksiyon ng audiovisual workers."
"Marami nang nagawa but marami pang kailangan gawin."
Though Liza's term has come to an end, Ice said he has full trust in the capacity of the FDCP staff to continue all the programs that his wife has envisioned for all of the artists.
Ice also extended a congratulatory message to the newly appointed FDCP head Tirso Cruz III.
"Tito Pip, congratulations on your appointment! You will soon be working with the most dedicated, passionate, and hardworking people in government.They will help you achieve your goals and dreams for the film industry. Please take good care of them," he told the veteran actor.
"I want to thank everyone who helped my Liza along the way. We are forever grateful."
Ice ended his lengthy Facebook post with a message for his wife.
"My Love, you have set the bar for what a government servant should be. Though it has caused us a lot of fights, pain, and tremendous sacrifices, seeing all the love and respect they have for you is all worth it. Thank you for being so selfless, to a fault. For giving your heart, soul, and life for the past 6 years," she said. "Thank you for your service, Liza. You are irreplaceable. Here's to new beginnings, my Love!"