Social media ‘on fire’ over controversial MMFF’s Gabi ng Parangal ‘one-man’ jury

The 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has come under fire following allegations that the awards night, “Gabi ng Parangal,” was dominated by the influence of a single individual, allegedly a veteran director who holds a government-appointed position.

Critics and observers expressed disappointment, claiming that the results were not a true reflection of the jury’s collective deliberation but rather the outcome of manipulation by this influential personality.

According to sources, the deliberation process was marred by a mid-stream change in the scoring system and the assertive dominance of the director, who reportedly disregarded the opinions of other jurors.

The sources alleged that this individual coerced the jury into submitting to his preferences, effectively sidelining their input in favor of his personal choices.

Observers have questioned why the MMDA and MMFF are being criticized for the results, suggesting that the blame should instead fall on the alleged manipulation by the film expert.

Followers of multi-awarded actors Aga Muhlach and Eugene Domingo caused an uproar on social media for the alleged MMFF’s “snubbed” of these two talented showbiz personalities.

They argued that as a supposed authority in the film industry, the veteran director should have upheld integrity and fairness, rather than steering the process to suit his agenda.

The controversy has sparked debates over the transparency and fairness of the MMFF’s selection process, raising concerns about the potential influence of powerful individuals on what is meant to be a celebration of excellence in Philippine cinema.