MMFF tees off star-studded golf tourney for Mowelfund

MMDA Chairman Don Artes tees off the Celebrity Golf Tournament for the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival at the Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024. (Photo from the Metro Manila Development Authority)

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) teed off its Celebrity Golf Tournament as part of the promotional activities for its 50th edition this year to raise funds for the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MowelFund), a film workers’ foundation.

The competition was opened in a ceremonial tee-off led by Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairperson Don Artes on Tuesday, Dec. 3, at the Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong City. The MMDA oversees the annual film festival.

Artes said the contest’s proceeds will go to MowelFund, a non-profit organization founded by former President Joseph Estrada for workers in the local entertainment industry when he was still mayor of the municipality of San Juan (now San Juan City). First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos has taken to supporting the interests of Mowelfund and in promoting Filipino films globally.

“The Celebrity Golf Tournament was not just a celebration of sport but also a tribute to the enduring legacy of the MMFF, setting the stage for more unforgettable festivities in its golden year,” MMDA said in a statement.

READ: MMFF completes 2024 lineup with diverse film entries

Metro Manila mayors, celebrities and other influential personalities in entertainment joined the celebration for the MMFF’s Celebrity Golf Tournament in Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024. (Photo from the Metro Manila Development Authority)

Caloocan City Mayor Along Malapitan, Mandaluyong Mayor Benjamin Abalos, San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian joined Artes in kicking off the MMFF event, along with many other influential personalities in entertainment and business.

Among the celebrities who were see at the MMFF event were actors Jayson Gainza, Marco Gumabao, Cesar Montano, Paolo Paraiso, Epi Quizon, Cristine Reyes and Daisy Reyes.

Sportscaster Patricia Bermudez Hizon, singers Christian Bautista and Mitoy Yonting, and basketball players Atoy Co, Vince Hizon and LA Tenorio were also present.

The tournament was hosted by actor Enchong Dee, with a performance by local rock band Reo Brothers.