First-time FAMAS winner Nikki Valdez and her late pet dog, Travis. Images: Instagram/@nikkivaldez_
To say that Nikki Valdez is in an emotional state is an understatement, as the actress had to process intense emotions following the death of her pet dog and winning her first FAMAS award — which happened just a day apart.
Following her best supporting actress win at the 71st Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) awards on Aug. 13, the longtime Star Magic artist bared her heart on her social media pages.
“As I type this, I am trying to put myself together because I am still grieving the loss of my boy, Travis, but [I] have something to be truly grateful for at the same time,” shared the actress-singer, whose 10-year-old pet dog died on Aug. 12.
Valdez, who won for her portrayal of Ellen in “Family Matters” — which was also named best picture — uploaded a photo of herself after delivering her acceptance speech, during which she thanked several people including the film’s cast and crew, and her family.
“Yes, I was ugly crying, shaking and very much overwhelmed with what was going on,” she shared, referring to how she felt in the photo. “Hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na nanalo ako sa FAMAS (Until now, I still can’t believe that I won in the FAMAS) !!! [crying face emojis],” she said, adding that she finally got to experience how past winners felt.
“Pinapanood ko lang ito [FAMAS awards] nung bata ako, and masayang-masaya ako para sa mga nananalo. Ramdam kong umaapaw ang saya sa puso nila. Kagabi, sabi ko sa sarili ko, ‘[I]to pala ‘yung feeling na ‘yun.’ [teary-eyed face emoji],” she said.
(I was only watching the FAMAS awards when I was a kid, and I was so happy for the winners. I felt that joy was overflowing in their heart. Last night, I told myself, “So, this is what they were feeling.”)
In her heartwarming tribute to her late pet dog, the “Unbreak My Heart” actress expressed how she’s “in immense pain and sadness,” but has found comfort with Travis being in a “pain[-]free” condition.
“Travis, thank you for the love-filled 10 years and 7 months you have given us, your family. I hope you felt how much we truly are thankful for you. Moomay, Dada, Manang OY and Nonna will miss you so much,” wrote Valdez, who told Travis, “Run free in beautiful Rainbow Bridge, my love. Till then. [hearts emoji]”
Aside from best picture and best supporting actress, “Family Matters” also won best actor and best editing, which were awarded to Noel Trinidad and Beng Bandong, respectively. EDV