For Eric Quizon, the 38th PMPC Star Awards for Television was a poignant homecoming, a full-circle moment tinged with the bittersweet knowledge of impending change. As the director of the prestigious awards ceremony, held at the iconic Dolphy Theater, he navigated a wave of emotions, balancing professional pride with personal sentiment.
The Dolphy Theater, named after his legendary father, the King of Comedy, has been a cornerstone of ABS-CBN’s legacy. But recent news of the property’s sale and impending demolition cast a long shadow over the event. For Quizon, who has deep-rooted ties to the network and the theater itself, it was more than just a venue; it was a repository of memories, a tangible link to his father's enduring influence.
"At the helm of the Star Awards for Television," Quizon shared in a heartfelt social media post, "I have come full circle with this organization, from being nominated, winning Best New Artist, Best Supporting Actor, Darling of the Press, to hosting for a decade, and now directing." His words painted a picture of a career intertwined with the Star Awards and ABS-CBN — a journey that had now led him back to the theater that bore his father's name.
The honor of directing the awards night, entrusted to him by the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC), was undeniable. Yet, the impending demolition of the Dolphy Theater added a layer of melancholy to the occasion. "Bitter-sweet feeling," he admitted, "because the venue is Dolphy Theatre at ABS-CBN, where news came out two weeks ago that this iconic ABS-CBN structure will be demolished. Progress is good, but somehow it cancels our history, heritage, and culture. Reality bites."
Quizon’s words resonated with many who felt a sense of loss at the news. The Dolphy Theater, beyond its physical structure, represented a significant chapter in Philippine entertainment history. Its demolition symbolized the inevitable march of progress, but also the erasure of a tangible connection to the past.
Despite the undercurrent of sadness, Quizon maintained a professional demeanor, ensuring the awards night proceeded smoothly. In his post, he extended warm congratulations to all the nominees and winners, acknowledging their achievements and contributions to the television industry.
The 38th Star Awards for Television, under Eric Quizon’s direction, became a poignant farewell to a beloved landmark. It was a night of celebration, remembrance, and a quiet acknowledgment of the fleeting nature of time and the inevitable changes that come with it. As the lights dimmed on the Dolphy Theater for perhaps one of its final major events, it left behind a legacy etched in the hearts of those who had walked its halls, performed on its stage, and found inspiration within its walls.