EDITORS DESK
The night was a dazzling celebration, brimming with stars from the silver screen and the music industry!
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza A. Marcos recently hosted “Konsyerto sa Palasyo” at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang Palace in a remarkable show of support for the Philippine entertainment industry.
The gathering marked a historic occasion, the first time the First Couple invited many celebrities for a special event within the Palace walls.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Office of the President, specifically the Social Secretary’s Office, for inviting us to attend this momentous occasion. It was indeed an honor to witness such a historic event and to celebrate significant milestones.
The First Couple and their son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Sandro Marcos, reveled in an hour-long program featuring well-loved Filipino songs and prominent stars from the movie industry.
Leading the musical spectacle was the Divine Diva Zsa Zsa Padilla, who captivated the audience as she and other talented singers delivered renditions of classic Filipino songs and festive holiday tunes.
Notable performers included Gian Magdangal, Molly Langley, Dane Mercado, and Jon Joven, all of who contributed to the lively atmosphere that celebrated the richness of Filipino culture.
The concert also showcased the artistic talents of the Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild, adding a dynamic dance component to the evening’s festivities. Following the performances, the stars from the 10 official entries of the 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival gathered on stage for a memorable photo opportunity with the First Couple, solidifying the sense of camaraderie within the Philippine entertainment community.
A star-studded guest list graced the event, including Vice Ganda, Sharon Cuneta and husband, former Senator Kiko Pangilinan, and veteran actors Christopher de Leon, Sandy Andolong, and Maricel Soriano. Other notable attendees were Lorna Tolentino, Julia Barretto, Enrique Gil, Alexa Miro, Rob Gomez, MJ Lastimosa, Francine Diaz, Seth Fedelin, Ruru Madrid, Ron Angeles, Gladys Reyes, and Rep. Arjo Atayde, along with producer Sylvia Sanchez, Aicelle Santos, Lani Mercado, Boots Anson Roa, Mylene Dizon, Sue Ramirez, and Hilda Koronel, who had returned to the Philippines after years living in the US.
Industry stalwarts present included Roselle Monteverde of Regal Entertainment, Annette Gozon of GMA Network, Carlo Katigbak of ABS-CBN, and Atty. Joji Alonso of Quantum Films.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Atty. Romando Artes, filmmaker Jun Lana, director Perci Intalan, Pepe Diokno, and businessman and sports patron Manny V. Pangilinan completed the roster.
Before this celebration, the First Lady attended the exclusive screening of the blockbuster film “Hello, Love, Again,” which starred Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards in Taguig City.
Roselle expressed her gratitude for the gathering at Malacañang, stating, “I’m appreciative and happy about this because I think this is the first time that the movie industry has been given much attention. I hope this kind of gathering continues.”
Atty. Joji shared her perspective, remarking, “Having been in the industry for 20 years, I can confidently say that nothing like this has ever happened. This initiative is most welcome, as it aims to support the movie industry – something we desperately need.”
Rep. Arjo expressed excitement and gratitude for the Malacañang event. “This is an overwhelming experience for me, coming to Malacañang as an actor today. It’s a different feeling compared to being a congressman. The support from President Bongbong Marcos and First Lady Liza Marcos energizes me. I’m thrilled we could gather like this, especially during Christmas.”
Arjo, who stars in “Topakk,” an official entry in the MMFF, also expressed his enthusiasm for the film’s debut in commercial theaters. “Aside from the action, the film has an important message. It’s not just about blood and grit; it resonates with a special message.”
This could signal a productive partnership between the Philippine movie industry and the government. I hope that gatherings like this will occur more frequently to support the development of the entertainment sector.
(Robert R. Requintina is the Entertainment Editor of Manila Bulletin)