Kapuso stars in GMA Countdown to 2016

Tonight, the brightest stars of GMA Network will come together as they welcome the New Year. 

Dubbed as Countdown to 2016, join hosts Kris Bernal, Andrea Torres, Betong Sumaya, and the Pambansang Bae Alden Richards as they introduce and take part in exciting production numbers. 

Expect a spectacular event in welcoming the New Year as the Kapuso Network invites everyone to grace the event in their best and most colorful costumes. And since GMA Network promotes the theme “Magmahalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko”, everyone will have the chance to celebrate the last chapter of the year with the Pambansang Bae by posting greetings and selfies with the hashtag #kapuso2016.

And when it comes to comic relief, excellent song renditions and fiery dance numbers, GMA Network is sure to provide the audience quality entertainment. Join Kapuso artists Rocco Nacino, Mark Herras, Sef Cadayona, Julian Trono, Winwyn Marquez, Mayton Eugenio, Gerphil Flores, and the Starstruck Top 6 in ushering 2016 with a bang. 

Also spicing up the evening are the charming love teams of Gabbi Garcia and Ruru Madrid; and Bianca Umali and Miguel Tanfelix as well as other fabulous GMA stars. 

And the most awaited part of the event should not be missed as the Kapuso Network closes the night with the most beautiful and thrilling fireworks display that will surely be enjoyed by the fans and viewers of all ages.  

Be part of a magnificent celebration in GMA Countdown to 2016 that will be held on the SM Mall of Asia Seaside Boulevard. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the live telecast starts at 11:00pm.

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MFFF Controversy

The recent Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal was without the usual amount of controversy. Prior to the ceremonies, the MMFF issued a statement disqualifying Honor Thy Father from the best picture race of the annual awards citing non-disclosure of its producers of its participation in a previous film festival, particularly Cinema One Originals.

The film won several awards though, including Best Director for Erik Matti, who ignored the ceremonies and sent someone to read a statement that accuses the MMFF for treating unjustly, not only his film, but other films as well in favor of more commercially viable films.

The Directors’Guild of the Philippines sent us this note via a private message on our Facebook account.

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A DISHONOR TO THE INDUSTRY

To The Executive Committee of The Metro Manila Film Festival 2015

As a creative institution with goals of further improving the evolving industry of Philippine cinema, the Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, Inc. condemns the disqualification of the film Honor Thy Father from the Best Picture category because we believe the film was not given its rightful due process. 

The MMFF gave a technical justification for disqualification that begs the following questions: Since MMFF already knew of the opening film screening of CinemaOne Originals, why wasn’t it disqualified early on? Or at least given notice that they could be disqualified from MMFF if they pursued the invitational screening? And why was the disqualification declared only a day before the awards night? 

There is injustice in the unfair disqualification of Honor Thy Father and this practice will continue with impunity if left unchecked. We enjoin our fellow film workers, especially those involved in the festival, to stand united and remain vigilant against all forms of injustice.  

The DGPI stands against arbitrary and unfair practices in the MMFF: we demand fair play, we demand transparency, and we demand change.

(sgd)
Mike E. Sandejas
President
Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, Inc.

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I seem to agree with the group. If the MMFF knew that the film had a participation in an earlier festival, it should not have taken it as an official entry. There were other films waiting in the wings. In that, they could have avoided the controversy that has now reached Congress.

It’s such a waste of time and energy.