7th Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival winners revealed

Rita Daniela and JM De Guzman won top acting honors at the 7th Sinag Maynila Awards Night held at the Gateway in Araneta City on Sept. 28.

- ROBERT REQUINTINA

The biggest winner of the night was "Madawag Ang Landas Patungong Pag-Asa," which took home the Best Film award. The film also secured several other awards, including Best Actress for Rita Daniela; Best Production Design, Jay Custodio; Best Screenplay, Eric Ramos, and Best Musical Score, Von De Guzman.

Rita was praised for her role as a dedicated teacher in "Madawag Ang Landas Patungong Pag-Asa." In her acceptance speech, she dedicated her victory to her son, Uno, and Direk Joel.

"I am also dedicating this award to my son, Uno. If you watch this film one day, I hope Nanay makes you proud. I want to dedicate this award to one of my mentors and directors, Direk Joel Lamangan.

"He's also one of my fathers in show business who has been guiding me since I was 14 years old. I'm so grateful that we're still here, working together. Thank you so much for making me the best actress tonight," she said.

JM, meanwhile, offered his victory to God after he won Best Actor for his role in "Selda Tres." In the past, JM admitted he would go home depressed whenever he lost in the acting categories of award-giving bodies. But now he's thrilled to win another acting trophy.