The inaugural Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Los Angeles honored legendary actress Hilda Koronel with its first-ever Monty Manibog Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating her extraordinary contributions to Philippine cinema.
The
award is named after the late Monty Manibog, an Olympic athlete, trailblazing
attorney, and the first Filipino American elected to public office in Southern
California, serving as both city council member and mayor of Monterey Park. His
legacy of leadership and community service now finds a fitting parallel in
Koronel’s artistry and enduring influence.
As
part of the tribute, the festival unveiled an official poster designed by Elton
Lugay and Adam Lang. The artwork, composed of hundreds of stills from Koronel’s
acclaimed films with National Artist Lino Brocka—most notably Insiang and
Maynila: Sa Mga Kuko ng Liwanag—symbolizes her indelible mark on cinema. A
closer look reveals Brocka himself alongside Koronel, a poignant reminder of
the Philippines’ finest filmmakers and storytellers.
Koronel
received the award before an audience of over 600 at the Directors Guild of
America, with luminaries including Piolo Pascual, Tirso Cruz III, Christopher
de Leon, Dingdong Dantes, and several Philippine officials in attendance.
“It’s
fascinating and I’m very happy for all the Filipinos who make it everywhere in
the world, especially now that they’re here. It’s really thrilling,” Koronel
shared.
With a
career spanning more than 50 films, Koronel has long been celebrated as one of
Philippine cinema’s most gifted actresses. Her last screen appearance was in
2012’s The Mistress, a performance that earned her multiple accolades. Now at
66, she revealed on the MIFF gold carpet that she is considering a return to
acting—news that delighted fans and industry peers alike.
The
Manila International Film Festival’s recognition affirms Koronel’s place not
only as a multi-award-winning actress but as a cultural icon who has carried
the Filipino voice onto the global stage. Her artistry continues to inspire
generations of filmmakers, actors, and audiences.
Congratulations,
Hilda Koronel—your star shines brighter than ever.
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