MANILA, Philippines — The period crime thriller "Manila’s Finest" and the animated documentary "58th"emerged as the top winners at the third annual (MIFF), which concluded its four-day run at the Beverly Hilton.
The festival, which ran from Sept. 3 to 6, brought together prominent filmmakers, actors, and storytellers to showcase outstanding Filipino cinema on the global stage.
"Manila’s Finest," directed by independent filmmaking veteran Raymond Red, secured the award for Best Picture (Narrative). Set in the late 1960s, the film follows a Manila police officer navigating criminal violence and political maneuvering ahead of the declaration of Martial Law. The film also earned accolades for Best Cinematography, credited to Red, while lead star Ashtine Olviga took home the Best Actress award.
"58th," an animated documentary produced by GMA Pictures and directed by Carl Joseph Papa, also claimed three major awards. The film won Best Picture (Documentary), while Papa was named Best Director. Reynafe Castillo received the festival's Shining a Light Award for her involvement in the project.
In individual performance categories, Jericho Rosales was awarded Best Actor for his performance in the historical drama "Quezon".
The festival also presented its MIFF Icon Award to Broadway and Disney legend Lea Salonga. Additionally, posthumous Lifetime Achievement Awards were dedicated to Philippine entertainment icons Nora Aunor and Pilita Corrales, who both passed away in April 2025. The honors were accepted on behalf of their families by actress Janine Gutierrez, the granddaughter of both artists.
The annual event bridges the Philippine film industry with the international community, using screenings at the TCL Chinese Theatre and events across Los Angeles to expand the reach of Filipino storytelling.
