Actress and Philippine Pop Queen Sarah Geronimo made history as the first Filipina artist to accept the Global Force Award on March 7, Thursday (PST), at the 2024 Billboard Women in Music Awards in Los Angeles, California.
During her speech, the 35-year-old singer thanked her fellow Filipinos for showing their support as she accepted the award.
“Good evening, everyone. I’m Sarah Geronimo from the Philippines. Hello po sa mga kababayan ko. Maraming salamat for being here, for giving your support,” she said.
The pop star then expressed her gratitude towards the music award for recognizing and bringing Filipino music to the global stage.
“Thank you, Billboard, for celebrating women in music and of course, for giving our country this meaningful recognition. Maraming maraming salamat, Billboard Philippines, for your commitment to bring our music, the Filipino music, and more Filipino artists to a global audience,” she added.
Ahead of the awarding ceremony, the singer was interviewed by Rania Aniftos and Lilly Singh on the “blue carpet” show and shared how significant the award is for her as an artist.
“It’s very unexpected, I mean, to be considered a global force. And for me, a global force means having that influence, that global power to influence people, and it also comes with a big responsibility,” said Sarah.
“You have to be mindful about the materials that you put out there so you have to create change and positivity towards other people,” she added.
In the same interview, she also honored her mother, Divine Geronimo, and called her a “hero”.
“But women, especially mothers out there. Shout out to my mother, Mommy Divine Geronimo, you are the best. You are my hero. I love you very much.”
“I cannot imagine myself being a mother, all the sacrifices that a mother has to do for their child, it’s mindblowing,” continued Sarah.
The actress-singer emphasized how proud she was to represent the country and its music in the prestigious event.
“I’m truly honored to be here to represent our country and our music, the Filipino music. Mabuhay ang OPM!” she said.
