Actress-restaurateur Judy Ann Santos reflected on her journey in the horror movie "Espantaho," for which she recently won Best Actress at the 45th Fantasporto Film Festival in Portugal.

On Instagram, Judy Ann said it was an honor to represent the country globally.

"Another milestone, another honor—proudly representing the Philippines on the global stage," she wrote on social media.

This recognition marked her second Best Actress win for the same film, as she also received the award during the Gabi ng Parangal at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) in December 2024.

Prior to Fantasporto Awards Night, Judy Ann said she was thankful the movie was invited to the international film festival.

"We are happy to represent the Philippines dito sa Portugal. Let's pray mainuwi natin ang award. Kung hindi man, magpapasalamat pa rin kami dahil naimbitahan kami rito. Maraming nagkagusto ng 'Espantaho' na pinalakpakan ang film namin. Malaking bonus talaga kung maiuwi ko yun. (We are happy to represent the Philippines here in Portugal. Let's pray we will bring home the award. If not, we will still be grateful because we were invited here. Many people liked 'Espantaho' and applauded our film. It would be a big bonus if I bring it home), Juday said.

Judy Ann and her husband, actor-television host Ryan Agoncillo, were in Portugal with the production team of "Espantaho." They also toured the country for several days.

Juday, 46, said she and the team of "Espantaho" went to Portugal without any expectations.

"Pumunta kami ng Porto ng walang inaasahan kundi mairerepresenta lang namin ang pelikula at bansa natin. Umuwi akong bitbit ang pinakamabigat na tropeyong natanggap ko buong buhay ko. Maraming salamat, Fantasporto. (We went to Porto with no expectations other than to represent our film and country. I came home with the heaviest trophy I have ever received in my entire life. Thank you very much, Fantasporto)," she added.