LIFE

38th PMPC Star Awards for Television: A night of stars and tributes

Jefferson Fernando

The Dolphy Theater was ablaze with star power this past Sunday as the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) celebrated the best and brightest of Philippine television at the 38th Star Awards for Television.

A night filled with heartfelt speeches, stunning performances, and well-deserved accolades, the event honored the industry's most outstanding programs and personalities of 2024.

The evening kicked off with a bang as dynamic hosts Alden Richards, Kim Chiu, and Piolo Pascual set the stage with infectious energy and seamless banter, setting the tone for a night of celebration.

Reality TV reigns, primetime powerhouses prevail

The Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 team dominated the reality show category, with Bianca Gonzalez, Robi Domingo, Kim Chiu, Melai Cantiveros, Enchong Dee, and Alexa Ilacad winning Best Reality Show Host. Kim Chiu, who also juggled hosting duties, graciously accepted the award and was later named Female Star of the Night, a testament to her versatility and charisma.

Coco Martin’s gripping action-drama, FPJ's Batang Quiapo, clinched the coveted Best Primetime TV Series award. A visibly moved Martin expressed his gratitude, saying, “Sobra kaming nagpapasalamat talaga sa lahat ng taong sumusuporta at nagmamahal sa show.”

ABS-CBN’s beloved noontime show, It’s Showtime, took home the Best Variety Show award, with lead host Anne Curtis being crowned Best Female TV Host. Veteran journalist Kabayan Noli De Castro was honored as Best Male Newscaster for TV Patrol, delivering a poignant speech dedicated to his team and the Filipino people.

New stars rise, acting legends shine

The night also celebrated emerging talent, with Fyang Smith, a fan-favorite from Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 Big 4Ever, receiving the Best New Female TV Personality award. “Super grateful ako. It’s such an honor to be recognized as a new TV female personality. Thank you sa mga fans ko — super overwhelmed ako,” Smith shared.

The acting categories saw powerhouse performances recognized. Piolo Pascual won Best Drama Actor for Pamilya Sagrado, and Kim Chiu secured Best Drama Actress for her compelling role in Linlang. Pascual also walked away with the Male Star of the Night award. Janine Gutierrez, for her compelling supporting role, was awarded Best Drama Supporting Actress and was hailed as Female Celebrity of the Night. “I’m so happy talaga, hindi ako makapaniwala. Ito talaga yung role na akala ko hindi ko magagampanan. Ite-treasure ko ito forever,” she shared, her voice filled with emotion.

Honoring legacies and powerful partnerships

The 38th PMPC Star Awards for Television also paid tribute to the pillars of the industry. Janice de Belen received the Ading Fernando Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting on her career with humility and gratitude. Broadcast journalist Julius Babao was honored with the Excellence in Broadcasting Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his decades of dedicated service.

The German Moreno Power Tandem Award highlighted the magic of on-screen chemistry, recognizing Kapamilya’s Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino (Linlang) and GMA’s Barbie Forteza and David Licauco (Pulang Araw).

A poignant moment of the evening was the Posthumous Award for the late Gloria Romero, a true icon of Philippine television, whose legacy continues to inspire.

The 38th PMPC Star Awards for Television was a testament to the talent, dedication, and passion that drive the Philippine television industry. It was a night of celebrating triumphs, honoring legacies, and looking forward to the bright future of Filipino entertainment.