Why is it that Filipinos find it difficult to accept defeat? Perhaps, the fact that there is too much expectation leads to so much disappointment when a film or an individual fails to get an award. Thereafter, they resort to making accusations, claiming lobbying or even cheating among the jurors. It is so denegrading, if not outright shameful to the outside world.

Not a few have been wondering also what is it about local movies that now sport English titles? These films need no subtitles such as telenovelas do, so why resort to using English? Does it give the film more importance, making it appear more attractive to moviegoers?

If controversies persist, perhaps, it is better not to hold any awards night to avoid ill feelings altogether. What is a trophy anyway? The box office serves as the barometer on whether a film grossed so much, indicating that it was well–received by moviegoers, hence, that it clicked! Awards also tend to gather dust, also space. After a few years, it may even lack meaning or is forgotten by the recipient.

There is so much to be happy about. This year, and for the record, the film festival grossed well over three hundred million pesos during its two-week run. Something to really crow about!

Haven’t you also observed how movies and politics seem to complement each other, or else, that they go hand in hand? To prove my point, prior to being elected mayor of Caloocan City, Rey Malonzo was active in the movies. So was Connie Angeles, who became councilor of Quezon City, as is presently Aiko Melendez. Others like Ramon Revilla and action star Lito Lapid, made it as senators no less, while Revilla’s son, Bong, is also a senator.

On the other hand, there is Epimaco Velasco, formerly NBI Director who became Governor of Cavite. Later his life story was portrayed in a movie, as was that of Gen. Alfredo Lim who used to head the Western Police District, then became Mayor of Manila, and is now senator.

Herbert Bautista, actor turned to politics when he took over the reigns as vice mayor of Quezon City. In Makati, Rico Puno, singer-actor became councilor, while Edu Manzano had a stint as vice mayor of Makati. The very popular Vilma Santos is now the incumbent mayor of Lipa City. And lest I forget, George Estregan is currently mayor of Pagsanjan, Jestoni Alarcon, the incumbent vice governor of Rizal, while Rep. Mikey Arroyo. Need I say more?

Only that no one got to occupy the highest position of the land like Joseph Ejercito Estrada. He surprised everyone when he ran as mayor of San Juan, and won. Later he was elected Senator, thereafter, Vice President, until finally, he became the President of the Republic of the Philippines!