The 48th Gawad Urian Awards shone a powerful light on truth and resilience in Philippine cinema with Alipato at Muog emerging as the evening’s most moving triumph.
Directed by JL Burgos, the deeply personal documentary was hailed Best Picture, a fitting tribute to both artistic integrity and unwavering advocacy.
The film revisits the 2007 disappearance of activist Jonas Burgos, JL’s older brother, turning grief into art and remembrance into resistance. Beyond Best Picture, Alipato at Muog also earned accolades for Best Documentary and Best Editing, solidifying Burgos’ voice as one of the country’s most fearless filmmakers.
“This film is not just for my brother,” JL shared in his acceptance speech. “It’s for every Filipino family still waiting for truth and justice.”
Night of cultural pride, emotional wins
While Alipato at Muog delivered the night’s most poignant moments, the biggest haul of awards went to the Cinemalaya 2024 Best Picture winner, Tumandok.
Directed by Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico, the film continued its winning streak with awards for Best Direction, Best Screenplay (shared with Arden Rod Condez), Best Music, and Best Supporting Actor for Felipe Ganancial — honored posthumously following his passing in May 2025.
The heartfelt applause for Ganancial’s win underscored how Tumandok captured both the spirit and struggles of the indigenous Ati people, giving voice to communities often left unheard.
Firsts, fulfilled promises
After six nominations over the years, Dennis Trillo finally clinched his first-ever Gawad Urian Best Actor trophy for Green Bones. His gripping portrayal of a conflicted man haunted by the weight of his choices also earned him the MMFF 2024 Best Actor award, marking a career milestone for the acclaimed Kapuso actor.
Arisa Nakano took home Best Actress for her captivating performance in Kono Basho, a film exploring grief, loss and rediscovery. Her co-star Gabby Padilla, also nominated in the same category, had shared the Cinemalaya 2024 Best Actress honor with Marian Rivera (Balota).
Meanwhile, Kakki Teodoro’s layered performance in Isang Himala won her Best Supporting Actress, her second major win for the role after MMFF 2024 — a testament to her range and emotional depth.
Legacy honored
This year’s Natatanging Gawad (Lifetime Achievement Award) went to veteran actor Dante Rivero, whose career spanning over five decades continues to shape the landscape of Philippine cinema. Revered for his versatility and dignity on-screen, Rivero’s recognition drew a standing ovation from industry peers and younger artists alike.
List of winners
Best Picture: Alipato at Muog
Best Actor: Dennis Trillo (Green Bones)
Best Actress: Arisa Nakano (Kono Basho)
Best Supporting Actor: Felipe Ganancial (Tumandok)
Best Supporting Actress: Kakki Teodoro (Isang Himala)
Best Direction: Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay & Richard Jeroui Salvadico (Tumandok)
Best Screenplay: Arden Rod Condez & Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay (Tumandok)
Best Documentary: JL Burgos (Alipato at Muog)
Best Short Film: Kyd Toratos (Bisan Abo, Wala Bilin)
Best Cinematography: Dan Villegas (Kono Basho)
Best Production Design: Marxie Maolen Fadul (Green Bones)
Best Editing: JL Burgos (Alipato at Muog)
Best Music: Paulo Almaden & The Ati People of Kabarangkalan and Nagpana (Tumandok)
Lifetime Achievement Award: Dante Rivero
Celebration of courage, creativity
Now in its 48th year, Gawad Urian once again proved why it remains the gold standard of film recognition in the Philippines — honoring stories that dare, question, and awaken.
From Alipato at Muog’s cry for justice, Tumandok’s celebration of indigenous identity to Green Bones’ raw humanity, this year’s winners remind us that the power of cinema lies not just in entertainment — but in empathy, remembrance,and truth.