‘Batang Quiapo,’ Julius Babao among winners at PMPC Star Awards presented by PlayTime

PlayTime, a major player in the Philippine online entertainment space, reaffirmed its support for Filipino artistry by co-presenting the 38th edition of the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Television.

The prestigious event, held on 23 March 2025 at the Dolphy Theatre inside the ABS-CBN compound, marked a celebrated return for the annual awards after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Now on its 38th year, the Star Awards continues to recognize the best in Philippine television, and this year’s ceremony highlighted both emerging favorites and industry icons.

Among the night’s biggest winners was the primetime series Batang Quiapo (A2Z, TV5), which clinched Best Primetime TV Series. Agenda from the Bilyonaryo News Channel was named Best News Program, while long-time favorite I-Witness (GMA 7) was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Vic Sotto took home the Best Male TV Host trophy for his work on Eat Bulaga (TV5/RPTV), while Best Comedy Actor went to Roderick Paulate for Da Pers Family (TV5), and Best Comedy Actress to Maricel Soriano for 3 in 1 (Net 25). Veteran journalist Julius Babao received the Excellence in Broadcasting Lifetime Achievement Award.

"PlayTime is all about entertainment and our mission is to revolutionize the landscape — whether it be with the games that our subscribers enjoy or the shows that transform the Philippine media arts. We want to celebrate and elevate Filipino talent, creativity, and artistry to new heights," said Krizia Cortez, Director of Public Relations at PlayTime. "The Philippine Movie Press Club embodies this vision and we are happy to be continuing a meaningful partnership with them."

Cortez added that PlayTime looks forward to supporting more “outstanding talents, imaginative shows, and exemplary narrations that showcase what the Filipino can create.”