Angelica Panganiban admits MMFF best actress win is a steep climb despite comeback buzz

• Angelica Panganiban described winning Best Actress at the MMFF as difficult to attain
• The actress responded to talks about her possible win for her film comeback, "UnMarry"
• She said recognition would be rewarding but stressed that making a good film already matters to her
• "UnMarry" marks her return to the MMFF after more than a decade and opens on December 25

One of the most anticipated moments of the Metro Manila Film Festival each year is the announcement of the Best Actress winner, an honor that Angelica Panganiban believes is especially challenging to secure.

Speaking candidly, the "UnMarry" lead star acknowledged the difficulty of winning at the prestigious festival.

“Mahirap masungkit ang MMFF,” she said.

Despite being regarded as one of the most versatile actresses of her generation, Panganiban has yet to take home a trophy from the annual film event.

Addressing speculation about her chances this year following her much-talked-about comeback, she shared mixed emotions about the possibility. “Hindi ko masagot.

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Marami na rin akong pelikula na nagawa for MMFF.

"Sabi ko nga, ‘Always a nominee but never a winner.’ Parang may ganoon na akong pakiramdam," she remarked.

Panganiban noted that receiving an award would feel like recognition for the effort she poured into the project, particularly during demanding filming days that required frequent travel.

“Kung ibibigay, masaya. Nag-comeback ka at pinaghirapan mo. Tapos luluwas ka ng Olongapo to Manila. Kung ibibigay — siguro — gaganahan ka uli,” she expressed.

Still, she emphasized that winning is not her sole measure of success.

“Pero kung hindi, masaya pa rin ako at nakagawa ako ng magandang pelikula. That’s enough,” she said.

Lightening the mood, she added, “Kung hindi best actress, box-office na lang. Mas gusto yata namin ‘yun ni attorney (Joji Alonso).”

Panganiban last appeared at the MMFF in 2012 through "One More Try." Explaining her decision to accept "UnMarry," she said the project stood out creatively and emotionally.

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“No offense naman sa mga ibinigay sa aking script noon na nag-aaya sa akin na bumalik na sa movies [pero] parang wala talaga siyang lukso ng dugo,” she said.

Directed by Jeffrey Jeturian, "UnMarry" opens in cinemas nationwide on December 25.

Angelica Panganiban has long been regarded as one of the most formidable talents in the Philippine entertainment scene, known for her effortless shift from emotionally charged drama to quick, intelligent comedy. She first captured public attention as a promising child actress and gradually matured into one of the industry’s most admired leading women. Her powerful portrayals in landmark television series such as Pangako Sa ’Yo and The Legal Wife earned widespread praise, with audiences drawn to the depth and intensity she brought to her roles. At the same time, she proved her comedic brilliance as a regular cast member of the long-running sketch show Banana Split. In recent years, Angelica has entered a deeply personal phase of her life. In 2022, she and her partner, Gregg Homan, welcomed their first child, ushering her into a chapter focused on family and motherhood.

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In a recent interview, Angelica confronted long-standing online rumors that branded her as a heavy drinker. She expressed hurt over remarks that unfairly connected her health condition to alcohol use. Setting the record straight, the actress revealed that she had been battling avascular necrosis, a serious condition caused by reduced blood flow to the hip, which developed during her pregnancy. Rejecting the accusations, Angelica responded with her trademark wit and resolve, pointing out the absurdity of being judged by people who have never truly known her.

Earlier, during her appearance on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, Angelica also spoke candidly about the sense of calm and security she experiences in her marriage. She described Gregg Homan as a hands-on and dependable partner who takes joy in caring for their home and family. More than just a spouse, Angelica shared that Gregg is her closest friend, emphasizing that open and honest communication is the cornerstone of their relationship. She also fondly recalled their first meeting in Subic, noting Gregg’s simple and unassuming nature, highlighted by his casual arrival without shoes—a moment that left a lasting impression on her.

Source: KAMI.com.gh