The brightest stars and best movies were honored at the Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal last December 27, 2024 at The Theater at Solaire. Among the decorated winners was Judy Ann Santos who took home the Best Actress trophy for her lead role in Espantaho.
Judy Ann Santos Wins 50th MMFF Best Actress Award in a Chic Black Gown
The actress took to the red carpet in a refined ensemble styled by Studio 24C, accentuated by a classic hair and makeup look by Jeffrey Aromin and Juan Sarte. She was the picture of sophistication and grace as she accepted her award in a timeless black maxi dress from British womenswear brand Solace London’s recent Resort 2025 collection.
The Kori Maxi Dress in Black, Solace London, solacelondon.com
In her acceptance speech, Judy Ann dedicated her win to the cast and crew that brought Espantaho to life. "Ang sarap sa pakiramdam, Espantaho team, para sa ating lahat 'to. Hindi ko magagawa ang trabahong ito without my Nanay LT [Lorna Tolentino], Tita Chanda, and my anak Kean,” she said. “This wouldn’t be possible without your great support. Acting is reacting. Naniniwala ako na hindi ko magagawa 'yung trabaho ko kundi dahil sa inyo.”
This award now marks Judy Ann’s third Best Actress win at the Metro Manila Film Festival. Her first was for the 2006 comedy film Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo, while she earned her second for her performance in the 2019 Philippine war drama Mindanao. Having won for a horror movie this year, her fans were quick to point out that Judy Ann has now been honored for the same award in three different genres, proving her undeniable versatility as an actress.
Judy Ann plays the role of Monet in Espantaho. Along with her sister, Rosa, they mourn the death of their family patriarch, Pabling. In what was supposed to be a solemn event, the nine-day vigil or Pasiyam for their deceased turns deadly instead when buried secrets and a sinister plot emerge to tear their family apart. It’s now up to the siblings to overcome this darkness and save everyone involved.
The film also stars Lorna Tolentino, Janice de Belen, JC Santos, Mon Confiado, Chanda Romero, Nico Antonio, Donna Cariaga, Kian Co, Eugene Domingo, and Tommy Abuel.
Watch the full trailer for Espantaho below!
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