In a watershed moment for Philippine cinema and global disability representation, the romance drama I’mPerfect was crowned Best Picture at the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal held at the Dusit Hotel in Makati City last Saturday.

Produced by Nathan Studios and directed by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo, the film shattered glass ceilings by being the first mainstream Filipino feature to star two leads with Down syndrome—Krystel Go and Earl Amaba—in a romantic narrative.

Not only did it mark a milestone for the first time in the movie’s 51-year history, but it also made actress Krystel win a historic first-ever best actress trophy — the first for an actor with Down Syndrome.

“Inclusivity, in one word, that’s how I simply described this historic milestone for Philippine cinema,” Bernardo said. “I pushed for this film for several years since 2009, the first time I wrote the script. I thought nobody would produce the film. I thanked Nathan Studios for the fantastic opportunity.”

The victory marks a decisive shift in the industry, proving that inclusive storytelling can triumph over traditional box-office formulas.

Accepting the award, Sigrid revealed that the project, powered by the CMB film services and VLTF Co Production, was a labor of love, often rejected for its “risky” premise that led to historic achievements.

“I doubted myself, but I never gave up on them. It was a big reward that this film had already been released in cinemas, and seeing them dancing on the stage, getting the attention they deserved, and being interviewed is an absolute success,” she said.

“I am already a big winner as I proved my point. These awards are priceless, and they are the icing on the cake. These are the rewards,” Sigrid added, referring to the Best Picture, Best Actress, and Best Ensemble Performance (Special Jury Prize) awards.

'Voices finally heard'

Executive Producer Sylvia Sanchez, who championed the project when others turned it away, was visibly emotional. In a poignant moment on stage, she was embraced by the cast, who declared the victory a testament to the capabilities of the Down syndrome community.

“Persons with disabilities: you made history tonight," Sylvia said.

This award has just proven to the public that people with Down syndrome are capable, professional, and worthy of the spotlight. "Our voices are finally heard."

Global significance

The victory of I’mPerfect is poised to ripple beyond the Philippines, offering a new benchmark for global cinema.

By casting neurodivergent actors to tell their own stories—rather than relying on neurotypical actors to mimic them—the film challenges international standards of authenticity and representation.

Beyond the top prize, I’mPerfect secured critical wins that underscore the film’s artistic excellence: Best Picture, Best Actress: Krystel Go (A historic first for an actor with Down syndrome in the festival’s 51-year history); and Best Ensemble Performance (Special Jury Prize).

Nathan Studios is a multimedia production company committed to telling "stories with a heart" and pushing the boundaries of Filipino content for a global audience and the film is currently screening in cinemas nationwide.