Speaker Martin Romualdez. Image from Facebook page
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez is this year’s recipient of the FAMAS Exemplary Award for Public Service, a special award given by the prestigious film body to individuals who have exemplified “dedicated, selfless service, and transformative influence in championing people’s welfare.”
The 71st edition of FAMAS, which stands for the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS), formally conferred the recognition to Romualdez last Sunday at the Manila Hotel Fiesta Pavilion, though he was not present during the event.
In accepting the accolade, Romualdez gave thanks to FAMAS for recognizing and honoring his efforts in public service, saying the award is a “validation of his vision and mission for the betterment of the country” and a reminder that his “pursuit of excellence in public service for the interest of the Filipino people has not gone unnoticed.”
The House leader said he draws inspiration from the story of every Filipino, and that it was humbling that they as legislators have touched people’s lives.
“I am humbled and honored to accept the FAMAS Excellence in Public Service Award. This recognition is not just mine, but belongs to every Filipino whose hopes and dreams inspire and challenge us in the House
of Representatives every day,” Romualdez said.
Romualdez pointed out that in both politics and entertainment, the actors are “powerful storytellers,” where each stories told in the silver screen are “essential threads in the fabric of our nation.”
“Each story, each law, each scene, and each dialogue carries with it the weight of our shared aspirations and the heart of our beloved nation… While one might craft laws and the other crafts stories, both aim to touch hearts and shape futures. Our films and TV shows do not just entertain; they reflect our culture, our values, our dreams, and sometimes, our very souls. They bring us laughter in times of joy, solace in moments of sorrow, and inspiration when hope seems lost,” he said.
He likewise extended his gratitude to individuals that make up the entertainment sector for shaping the creative industry to what it is at present.
“To the artists, directors, writers, and every unsung hero in the entertainment industry, I salute you. You are the torchbearers of our culture, reminding us of our past, grounding us in the present, and guiding us toward the future. Let us remember that our roles, whether in public service or in the arts, are intertwined in our shared mission: to elevate the Filipino spirit, to dream bigger for our nation, and to weave tales of hope, resilience, and unity,” he said.
During the awards night, actress Nadine Lustre and veteran actor Noel Trinidad bagged the top awards for best actress and best actor respectively.
Lustre won for her portrayal of the role of Kitchi in the movie “Greed,” while Trinidad was excellent in the family drama “Family Matters,” which was also named Best Picture. EDV