The 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal, held on December 27 at Solaire Resort Manila, has sparked online controversy following the reactions of presenters Sue Ramirez and Cristine Reyes during the announcement of the Best Supporting Actor award.
Ramirez and Reyes, along with Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo, took the stage to present the award. As they prepared to announce the winner, Sid Lucero’s name was mentioned twice—once for his performance in ‘Topakk’ and another for ‘The Kingdom’. During this moment, a remark by Reyes was faintly heard on the livestream, saying, “Kailangan si Sid ’to ah…”
When Ruru Madrid was ultimately declared the winner for his role in ‘Green Bones’, netizens observed what they interpreted as visible disbelief from Reyes and Ramirez. Their reactions quickly drew criticism online, with many viewers calling their behavior unprofessional.
Despite the controversy, Ruru Madrid received the Best Supporting Actor award for his portrayal of prison guard Xavier Gonzaga in ‘Green Bones’, a film produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs. He triumphed over fellow nominees Sid Lucero, Jhong Hilario, Kokoy de Santos, and David Ezra.
In an emotional acceptance speech, Madrid shared his struggles and perseverance throughout his career: “Buong buhay ko, lagi po akong underdog. Lagi akong talo, na-a-underestimate, lagi akong binababa,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of resilience, adding: “Nu’ng una, nasasaktan ako, iniisip ko, ‘Bakit?’ But then I realized na kaya pala siya nangyayari sa akin, para ‘pag dumating ‘yung araw na ibibigay na sa akin ’yung kapalit nu’n, katulad po nito, hindi ko po ite-take for granted lahat ng ’yun.”
Madrid concluded his speech by encouraging dreamers to believe in themselves: “Basta ikaw naniniwala ka sa sarili mo na kaya mo, na mararating mo ’yung pinapangarap mo… makakamit mo ito.”
In ‘Green Bones’, Madrid plays Xavier Gonzaga, a dedicated prison guard determined to keep prisoner Domingo Zamora (portrayed by Best Actor winner Dennis Trillo) behind bars despite his parole application.
This marks a significant milestone in Madrid’s career, highlighting his growth as an actor.
In January 2025, Ruru Madrid will return to television as the titular character in ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’, airing on GMA Prime.
Congratulations to Ruru Madrid on this well-deserved recognition!
Netizens have recently taken to social media to express their criticism toward actresses Sue Ramirez and Cristine Reyes for their reactions during Ruru Madrid’s win at a prestigious awards ceremony. The event, which celebrated outstanding achievements in the entertainment industry, saw Madrid bagging a significant award for his performance in a popular television series. However, the spotlight quickly shifted to Ramirez and Reyes as their responses to Madrid’s victory sparked controversy and divided opinions among fans and critics alike.
The criticism began when clips of the event circulated online, showing Ramirez and Reyes seemingly displaying less-than-enthusiastic reactions during Madrid’s acceptance speech. Some netizens accused the actresses of being unsupportive, while others speculated that their expressions hinted at underlying tensions or jealousy. The backlash escalated as social media users dissected every gesture and facial expression, with hashtags related to the incident trending on various platforms.
Sue Ramirez, known for her roles in hit TV dramas and films, was particularly scrutinized for her demeanor. In the viral clips, she appeared to be looking away or distracted while Madrid was on stage. Some fans defended Ramirez, arguing that her reaction might have been misinterpreted or that she was simply preoccupied with her own thoughts. However, others criticized her for what they perceived as a lack of professionalism and camaraderie, especially in an industry that thrives on mutual support and encouragement.
Cristine Reyes, another prominent figure in the entertainment scene, also faced backlash for her reaction. Reyes was seen exchanging glances with Ramirez and occasionally smirking during Madrid’s speech. Critics accused her of being dismissive and disrespectful, while her supporters argued that her expressions were taken out of context. Reyes, who has been in the industry for years, is no stranger to controversies, but this incident has reignited discussions about the pressures and expectations placed on celebrities during public appearances.
The controversy has sparked a broader conversation about the dynamics within the entertainment industry. Some netizens pointed out that competition and rivalries are inevitable in such a high-stakes environment, leading to moments of tension or awkwardness. Others emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and grace, especially during events that celebrate collective achievements. The incident has also highlighted the role of social media in amplifying and dissecting every aspect of a celebrity’s behavior, often leading to heated debates and polarized opinions.
Ruru Madrid, the central figure in the controversy, has yet to publicly address the issue. The actor, who has garnered a loyal fan base for his work, has been praised for his humility and dedication to his craft. Many of his supporters have expressed disappointment over the criticism directed at Ramirez and Reyes, urging netizens to focus on celebrating Madrid’s accomplishments instead of dwelling on the reactions of others. Madrid’s win is seen as a testament to his hard work and talent, and his fans hope that the incident will not overshadow his well-deserved recognition.
In the midst of the backlash, some industry insiders have come forward to defend Ramirez and Reyes, emphasizing that public appearances can be overwhelming and that celebrities are often under immense scrutiny. They reminded the public that reactions captured in fleeting moments may not always reflect the full context or intent. Both Ramirez and Reyes have yet to issue official statements regarding the incident, leaving fans and critics to speculate about their perspectives.
The incident has also reignited discussions about the culture of criticism on social media, where opinions can quickly escalate into full-blown controversies. While some netizens argue that public figures should be held accountable for their actions, others believe that the constant scrutiny and judgment can take a toll on their mental health. The debate underscores the need for a more empathetic and nuanced approach to discussing celebrities’ behavior, recognizing the complexities of their lives and the pressures they face.
As the controversy continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with fame and the importance of fostering a supportive and understanding community. While disagreements and misunderstandings are inevitable, they also present an opportunity for growth and reflection. The entertainment industry, like any other field, is a space where individuals navigate personal and professional relationships, and moments of tension can offer valuable lessons in empathy and communication.
Ultimately, the focus should remain on celebrating the achievements of artists like Ruru Madrid, who continue to inspire and entertain audiences with their work. The incident involving Sue Ramirez and Cristine Reyes is a reminder that public figures are human beings with their own struggles and emotions, and that their actions should be viewed with compassion and understanding. As the conversation evolves, it is hoped that the industry and its supporters can move forward with a renewed commitment to kindness and mutual respect.
