The 32nd Gawad Urian held Sept. 19 at the Little Theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) lacked starpower but its breezy and no-fuss presentation was commendable.

Most of the nominees came from independently produced movies. Many of the winners were either absent or late to accept their trophies.

Still, the awarding ceremony presided by the film critics’ group, Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino, remained focused on honoring the best of Philippine cinema output last year.

The choice of intermission numbers -- notable of which were Bayang Barrios’ rendition of “Awit ng Mortal,” a vintage Joey Ayala tune used in the nominated movie, “Brutus;” and Cookie Chua’s performance of “Awit ni Patricia,” written by director Lav Diaz that he also incorporated into his film, “Melancholia,” another nominee in the Best Picture category--were also relevant.

Even after the announcement of the winner for the last Gawad Urian award of the night – which went to “Serbis” and accepted by the people behind Centerstage Productions – the audience didn’t stir from their seats as hosts Butch Francisco and Boots Anson-Roa called back to stage Barrios and Chua for another number. The two singers renowned for their unique voices and outstanding musicality performed a version of the Juan dela Cruz Band classic, “Ang Himig Natin,” with the Encantadia band.

When the show was over, Best Actress nominee Gina Pareño (for her role in “Serbis”) was mobbed by fans who recognized her as 'Lola Gets,' her character in the ABS-CBN soap opera “Tayong Dalawa” whose death scene aired on Sept. 14 tugged the hearts of loyal viewers.         

A real trouper, Pareño readily agreed to endless photo-ops even as she personally congratulated Best Actress winner Mylene Dizon of “100” who yelled "Lola Gets!" the moment she saw Pareño approaching her.

Pareño told Manila Bulletin Entertainment Online that she’s grateful for the immense popularity that “Tayong Dalawa” is enjoying especially as it is bowing out of the boob tube on Sept. 25. 

Lola Gets is the kooky but lovable grandmother of estranged twin brothers JR and Dave (played respectively by Gerald Anderson and Jake Cuenca) who are vying for the love of Audrey (Kim Chiu).

“Bibihira na lang ang ganitong pagkakataon,” Pareño said, adding that she’s looking forward to be given another opportunity to play an unforgettable character like Lola Gets.