On the evening of February 21, 2026, the historic Centennial Hall of The Manila Hotel transformed into a radiant moment of prestige, artistry, and national pride as the Philippine Arts, Film & Television Awards (PAFTA) unfolded in full grandeur. As a representative of Hellenic Media Group, I had the rare privilege of witnessing firsthand what can only be described as one of the most remarkable celebrations of Filipino creative excellence in recent years.
From the very moment I stepped into the venue, it was evident that this was no ordinary awards night. The air carried a sense of anticipation and reverence—an acknowledgment that the individuals gathered in that hall were not merely entertainers, but cultural architects shaping the narrative of the Filipino identity through film, television, and theater.
The red carpet alone was a spectacle. Distinguished celebrities, acclaimed directors, producers, and emerging talents graced the event with a presence that embodied both glamour and substance. Conversations flowed between generations of artists—veterans sharing space with rising stars—creating a dynamic environment that reflected the evolving yet deeply rooted nature of the Philippine entertainment industry.
An Opening of Dignity and Vision
The evening commenced with a formal introduction of the PAFTA Board of Officers, recognizing the distinguished leaders behind the organization’s growing influence. Their presence signified not just authority, but commitment—individuals united by a shared vision of elevating Philippine arts and media to greater heights.
The singing of the Philippine National Anthem followed, instilling a profound sense of unity and patriotism among attendees. This was complemented by an opening prayer that grounded the evening in gratitude and purpose, reminding everyone present that beyond the accolades lay a deeper mission: to honor creativity as a force for cultural preservation and national pride.
A defining moment early in the program was the keynote address delivered by Dr. Donald Lim, Chief Executive Officer of DITO Telecommunity. His speech resonated with both clarity and inspiration, highlighting the transformative role of innovation in media and the necessity of embracing change in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. His insights provided a compelling framework for understanding the significance of the awards—not just as recognition, but as a catalyst for future growth.
Film: A Testament to Storytelling Excellence
The film category stood as one of the most anticipated segments of the evening, showcasing the remarkable depth and diversity of contemporary Philippine cinema.
“Balota,” produced by GMA Pictures, emerged as Best Picture, a recognition that affirmed its impact both artistically and socially. The film’s success was further amplified by Marian Rivera’s commanding performance, which earned her Best Actress—solidifying her position as one of the most influential figures in the industry today.
Dennis Trillo delivered a powerful portrayal in “Green Bones,” securing the Best Actor award. His performance exemplified the emotional intensity and nuance that continue to define Filipino acting on the global stage.
Meanwhile, Gabby Ramos was honored as Best Director for “When Magic Hurts,” a film that demonstrated both technical mastery and storytelling innovation.
Rebecca Chuaunsu’s achievement was particularly noteworthy. Her performance in “Her Locket” earned her a Best Actress award alongside Marian Rivera, while the film itself received Best Original Story—a rare dual recognition that underscored her multifaceted contribution to cinema.
Supporting performances also received well-deserved recognition. Will Ashley and Gabby Padilla brought depth and authenticity to their roles, earning Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress respectively. Young talents Enzo Osorio and Elia Ilano were honored as Best Child Actor and Best Child Actress, signaling a promising future for the next generation of performers.
Behind the camera, excellence was equally evident. Neil Daza’s cinematography in “Green Bones,” Lawrence Fajardo’s editing in “The Hearing,” and Gaspar Mangarin’s visual effects in “Espantaho” showcased the technical brilliance driving Philippine filmmaking forward.
The recognition of “As The Moth Flies” as Best Short Film and “No Man Left Behind” as Best Documentary Film further highlighted the diversity of storytelling formats being embraced by Filipino creators.
Television: A Pillar of National Influence
Television, long a cornerstone of Filipino culture, was celebrated with equal prominence.
GMA Network was awarded Best TV Station, reaffirming its leadership in delivering impactful content to millions of viewers nationwide. Programs such as “Unang Hirit,” “It’s Showtime,” “24 Oras,” and “I-Witness” demonstrated the breadth of television’s influence—from news and public affairs to entertainment and lifestyle.
Individual recognitions reflected the strength of television personalities in shaping public engagement. Coco Martin, honored as Best Drama Actor for “FPJ Batang Quiapo,” continues to embody the enduring appeal of Filipino storytelling. Carla Abellana’s performance in “Widows War” earned her Best Drama Actress, while Dingdong Dantes and Anne Curtis were recognized for their excellence in hosting.
These awards underscored television’s unique ability to connect with audiences on a daily basis, bridging entertainment with social relevance.
Theater and the Living Art of Performance
Beyond screen-based media, PAFTA paid tribute to the enduring power of live performance through its theater and performing arts categories.
“Walang Aray” received the Musical Theater Award, while “One More Chance” was recognized as Contemporary Theater Award, reflecting the adaptability of stage productions in capturing modern narratives.
A particularly significant recognition was awarded to “Juan Luna: Isang Sarsuela,” directed by Vince Tañada, which received the National Cultural Impact and Educational Theater Award. This production exemplifies how theater can serve as both an artistic and educational medium, preserving history while engaging contemporary audiences.
Jhett Tolentino’s Global Excellence in Theater & Film Production Award highlighted the international reach of Filipino talent, reinforcing the idea that Philippine artistry transcends borders.
Moments of Emotion and Legacy
While the evening celebrated achievement, it also offered moments of profound reflection.
The posthumous recognition of National Artist Nora Aunor stood as one of the most moving segments of the program. As her son, Ian De Leon, accepted the award on her behalf, the audience was reminded of the immeasurable legacy she left behind—a legacy that continues to inspire generations of artists.
The presence of icons such as Marian Rivera and Coco Martin further elevated the event, symbolizing the continuity of excellence within the industry.
Special Recognitions and Broader Impact
PAFTA extended its recognition beyond traditional entertainment categories, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
Karen Ibasco received the Remarkable Earth Leadership / Beauty Icon Award, while Lourdjean Gonzales Galvez was named Icon of Philippine Pageantry. These awards emphasized the intersection of artistry, advocacy, and national representation.
Leadership Behind the Vision
The success of the evening would not have been possible without the leadership of PAFTA’s Board of Officers. Chairman Dr. Billy James Uy, President Prof. Teresita Tolentino Pambuan, and their team demonstrated a unified commitment to fostering excellence within the industry.
Chairman of the Board Dr. Billy James Uy
President Prof. Teresita Tolentino Pambuan
Vice President Charlomagne Arceta
Executive Vice President Christina Aliada
Secretary Jen Aliada
Treasurer Rafy Gellang
Auditor Edward Ralph Santos
Public Relations Officer Nico Lizardo
Corporate Secretary Atty. Jocelyn Reyala
A night of elegance, recognition, and celebration at PAFTA Awards held at Manila Hotel Centennial Hall.
The PAFTA Directors and Officers graced the red carpet with pride and sophistication, marking a memorable moment before the grand celebration of excellence in Philippine film and television.
Their presence reflects the dedication and leadership that continue to elevate the standards of our creative industry.
Celebrating artistry. Honoring excellence. Inspiring the future of Philippine cinema and television.
Their presence on the red carpet and throughout the event symbolized not just organizational leadership, but a deep passion for advancing Filipino creativity.
A Defining Statement for the Future
As the evening drew to a close, one thing became undeniably clear: the PAFTA Awards 2026 was more than a celebration—it was a declaration.
A declaration that Philippine film, television, and theater are thriving industries, rich with talent, innovation, and cultural significance. A declaration that Filipino artists are not only storytellers, but ambassadors of a vibrant and evolving national identity.
For me, as a journalist and witness to this extraordinary event, the experience was both humbling and inspiring. It was a reminder that behind every performance, every production, and every recognition lies a story worth telling—a story that contributes to the greater narrative of a nation.
PAFTA has positioned itself as a vital platform in this journey, one that not only honors excellence but actively shapes the future of Philippine arts and entertainment.
And as the lights dimmed in the Centennial Hall, what remained was not just the memory of a grand evening—but the enduring impact of a movement dedicated to celebrating artistry, honoring excellence, and inspiring generations to come.