MANILA, Philippines – Industry icons of Philippines cinema gathered on Thursday, December 10 for the 3rd Gawad Direk Awards held at the Shooting Gallery in Makati.

Seven men and women were honored this year for their contribution to filmmaking and the Philippine film industry as a whole. This year, the directors paid tribute to actress Susan Roces, cinematographer Romy Vitug, independent filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik, screenwriter Ricky Lee, Regal Films producer Mother Lily Montiverde, and directors Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes. The awards were given by the members of the Directors Guild of the Philippines. 

“I’m deeply honored. You, directors are my saviors. Without you, Regal Films would not be here today. We share our body and soul. Our passion to achieve our goal. Thank you po, and mabuhay ang Filipino film industry,” Mother Lily said during her speech.

Vitug and Lee also thanked the directors for the award, saying that they were grateful to be given the chance to work with them in many movies throughout their careers. 

Theater veterans and real-life couple Isay Alvarez and Robert Seña hosted the awards night and also entertained the audience.

Roces and Gallaga were unable to attend the awards. Lore Reyes, Gallaga’s co-director in many movies accepted the recognition, while Roces’ grandson Brian Poe Llamanzares accepted the award on her behalf. 

Independent filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik performed an impromptu monologue. 

The first Gawad Direk Awards were held in 2003. Recipients of this award include filmmakers Emmanuel Borlaza, Celso Ad Castillo, National Artist for Cinema and Broadcast Arts Eddie Romero, actor Eddie Garcia, Dolphy, Gloria Romero, and more.

From last night – Independent filmmaker Kidlat Tahimik performing part of his monologue. pic.twitter.com/YgKdHq9th7

— alexa villano (@alexavillano) December 11, 2015

Photos by Alexa Villano/Rappler

– Rappler.com