A few days after taking home the Best Actor plum at this year’s FAMAS Awards, actor-politician Alfred Vargas celebrated his win with the showbiz press.
“You’ve been joining me in my every journey as an actor, that’s why I wanted to share this victory with you,” was his simple opening statement.
Despite his win at the prestigious awards show, the 42-year-old actor said that his film Pieta could still go places and admitted that he got hurt and disappointed when it did not make it to the official entries in the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) last year.
“Only a few people have seen it, but all of them consistently asked why Pieta wasn’t included in the MMFF. We’ve accepted that it’s tough to get into the MMFF, like passing through the eye of a needle,” Alfred shared.
Despite his disappointment, he fondly recalled his previous MMFF successes with films like Tagpuan, Bridal Shower, and Banal.
“Sometimes you make it, sometimes you don’t. But I can’t deny it felt like a waste that Pieta wasn’t included because so many people believe in this film,” Alfred admitted.
This year, he decided not to participate in the MMFF, choosing to focus on other pursuits.
Alfred is currently immersed in public service, supporting his brother PM Vargas, a successful congressman.
“I admit he’s a better congressman than I am. I’ll just support him in his area of excellence. So, in the next elections, we’ll maintain the status quo: my brother will run for congress, and I will run as councilor,” Alfred explained, highlighting his enjoyment in his role as a councilor, which allows him to pursue various endeavors.
Since taking office, Alfred has accomplished much. He’s currently studying at the University of the Philippines Diliman, working towards his Ph.D. in Urban and Regional Planning. He’s also started a few businesses, and the added flexibility has allowed him to spend more time with his family, recently welcoming their fourth child.
“And to top it all, I made a film with Nora Aunor, Gina Alajar, and Jaclyn Jose, and we even won an award. I’m enjoying myself and being very productive while serving,” he elaborated, clearly relishing his current phase of life.
Alfred shared his feelings about winning the Best Actor award alongside Piolo Pascual.
“I didn’t expect to win the coveted award. I attended the film event to celebrate with my fellow actors. I was already thinking about what to write in my social media caption to congratulate the winner. So, I felt honored when my name was called, and Piolo’s name was called later. I’ve looked up to him since our Talent Center days,” he said.
Competing against the 49th MMFF Best Actor Cedrick Juan, Ken Chan, Alden Richards, and Dingdong Dantes, Alfred felt honored just to be among such esteemed nominees.
“Whenever I hold the trophy, I feel so happy and honored. What’s important to me is that we achieved something with FAMAS, and at the end of the day, we were recognized for Pieta. After receiving the award, I slept with the trophy beside me. The issues surrounding FAMAS didn’t affect my sense of accomplishment,” he said.
“I’m just happy that our humble film was noticed despite being the only indie nominated,” he added.
During the huddle, showbiz columnist Jun Nardo bravely broached the controversial topic of FAMAS, asking Alfred about the persistent rumors of award-buying.
“FAMAS is not FAMAS without controversy. They say there’s a buying of awards in FAMAS. How do you feel about it?” Nardo inquired.
Alfred responded cautiously but firmly, saying his win was legitimate.
“First, it’s not true. To everyone who watched Pieta, they would understand why we won.”
