All roads lead to the Dengcar Theatre of the Mowelfund Film Institute on Sept. 27, 2024 at 7 p.m. as the Multi-Media Press Society of the Philippines, Inc. (MMPRESS) stages its “Kickoff and Appreciation Night.”

Composed of veteran and contemporary entertainment writers and columnists both in print and online, the group is formerly known as the Entertainment Press Society of the Philippines, Inc. (ENPRESS). 

The need to re-brand was imperative mainly because of the evolving landscape in entertainment reporting and writing.

Now, the MMPRESS is not only exclusive to giving awards to film and television but will be active as well in various social media platforms. They will also focus on their advocacies for sports, health, education, and the environment. 

For their maiden project since their re-branding, the MMPRESS will pay tribute to some of the ‘biz’s well-known and respected personalities and influencers whose contributions to the entertainment industry over the years are simply worth citing.

This year’s honorees are divided into three groups. First are the “MMPRESS Heroes” which include actor-politician Alfred Vargas, Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, beauty magnate Rhea Anicoche-Tan, boob tube executive Malou Choa-Fagar, revered TV host Boy Abunda, former Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno, renowned talent manager Perry Lansigan, respected radio personality and talent manager Noel Ferrer, former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson, Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr. and former Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista.

The next group of honorees are called “Entertainment Stalwarts” composed of veteran columnists, editors and broadcast journalists. This elite circle includes GMA showbiz reporter Lhar Santiago, famous columnist and talent manager Lolit Solis, respected editor-writer Jo-Ann Maglipon, and seasoned columnist Ronald Constantino.

The third group is called “Trailblazing Leaders," personalities whose dedication and excellent leadership make them strong pillars of the showbiz industry. 

The list includes GMA top honcho Annette Gozon-Valdes, ABS-CBN bigwig Cory Vidanes, Viva big boss Vic Del Rosario, Jr., film producers Joji Alonso and Guido Zaballero, MTRCB Chairperson Diorella Sotto-Antonio, Regal mogul Roselle Monteverde, director Mike Tuviera, MMDA Acting Chairperson Atty. Roamndo Artes, respected actress and industry mover Boots Anson-Roa and A-1 actor and TV host Dingdong Dantes. 

The re-branded showbiz organization aims to make entertainment writers value their craft even more - to go back to the basics of why they are writers. First and foremost, they are here for the writing craft and that they should assert their relevance and think of positive ways on how they can contribute more to the showbiz industry.

With this event, MMPRESS is starting to make its strong presence felt in the entertainment industry in the coming days.

Sponsors are as follows: Beautederm, Megasoft Hygienic Products, Inc., Hato Cafe Latte, VDrinks, Mowelfund, Super Tibay, and Right Choice by Filgen, Goldilocks and Greenwich. Glomar Herbal Phils. Corp., Mar & Phen Herbal Food Supplement Trading.