Tom Rodriguez, may pahayag ukol sa sorpresang panalo niya sa MMFF: “I honestly didn’t expect”

• Tom Rodriguez admitted he was genuinely shocked to win Best Supporting Actor for his role in the drama Unmarry at the 51st MMFF
• The actor expressed deep appreciation for his support staff, calling them his "safety net" that allows him to focus entirely on his acting
• In a touching moment, Tom dedicated the honor to his wife, Cecilia, and their son, Korben, calling them his biggest cheerleaders
• Rather than focusing on the prestige, Tom emphasized "intentional gratitude," thanking everyone who helped him grow in his craft

The morning after a life-changing event often feels surreal, and for Kapuso actor Tom Rodriguez, the dawn of December 28 brought a profound sense of "intentional gratitude."

Following his surprise win as Best Supporting Actor at the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Gabi ng Parangal, Tom took to social media to process the whirlwind of emotions that comes with being recognized by one's peers.

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In a heartfelt Instagram post, the actor admitted that he walked into the awarding ceremony with zero expectations.

"I honestly didn't expect the nomination last night, much less the win," he shared, capturing the raw vulnerability of an artist who does the work for the love of the craft rather than the promise of a trophy.

Tom was recognized for his compelling performance as Stephen in the marriage drama Unmarry, a role that many critics have called one of his most nuanced to date.

The victory was especially sweet given the personal weight of the project. Starring alongside Angelica Panganiban and Zanjoe Marudo, Tom played a character caught in the crosshairs of a toxic relationship, a narrative he admitted in earlier press conferences was difficult to tackle but ultimately healing.

Beyond the glitz of the stage, Tom used his platform to shine a light on the "silent heroes" of his career. He offered a deeply personal shout-out to his handler and personal assistant, whom he described as his "safety net."

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He noted that their quiet consistency behind the scenes allows him to "jump wholeheartedly" into his roles, knowing he is supported off-camera.

Perhaps most touching was his dedication to his family. During his acceptance speech and subsequent post, Tom honored his wife, Cecilia, and their son, Korben.

He described his family as the "steady ground" upon which he stands. In a world as volatile as show business, Tom’s reflection serves as a reminder that while trophies are temporary, the intentional gratitude for the people who walk the journey with you is what truly lasts.

Tom Rodriguez, or Bartolome Alberto Mott in real life, is a prominent Filipino-American figure in the Philippine entertainment landscape whose career is defined by versatility. He first stepped into the national spotlight in 2009 as a standout contestant on the reality series Pinoy Big Brother: Double Up. This initial exposure served as a springboard into a prolific acting career, where he quickly transitioned from reality TV personality to a respected dramatic lead.

During a recent media event for his film Unmarry, the actor said he has officially dismissed the possibility of a future on-screen reunion with Carla Abellana, describing that period of his life as a story that has reached its definitive conclusion. The actor explained that he has no interest in revisiting the past, stating that he chooses to protect his current peace rather than risking the reopening of old emotional wounds. Upon learning of his former wife’s engagement to a non-showbiz partner, Rodriguez offered sincere well-wishes, signaling that he harbors no ill will toward her new chapter. Rodriguez expressed genuine satisfaction that both parties have successfully moved forward, noting that finding personal tranquility in their separate lives is a positive outcome for everyone involved.

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In the same event, Tom responded with maturity to the news of Carla Abellana’s engagement, extending his blessings to the couple as they prepare for marriage. Echoing sentiments of finality shared by co-star Angelica Panganiban, Rodriguez emphasized that he is firmly rooted in his present life and has no desire to flip back to previous chapters. The actor maintained an upbeat perspective on their collective growth, remarking that he is truly "glad" to see everyone finally navigating their way toward happiness after a highly publicized separation. Rodriguez reiterated that his primary focus remains the "peace" he has cultivated within his new family, choosing to dedicate his energy to his roles as a husband and father rather than past controversies.

Source: KAMI.com.gh