MANILA — Maris Racal became emotional after being named Best Actress at the 9th Entertainment Editors’ Choice Awards for her performance in Sunshine, using her acceptance speech to reflect on resilience, personal setbacks, and the courage to start over.
Before thanking those behind the film, Racal first recognized her fellow nominees, saying it was a privilege to share the category with respected actresses such as Mylene Dizon, Barbie Forteza, Angelica Panganiban, and Charo Santos-Concio.
Racal described Sunshine as one of the most challenging projects of her career because of its sensitive subject matter involving abortion and difficult life choices. She said that from the moment she read the script, she knew the role would require empathy and a deeper understanding of the character’s struggles.
During her speech, the actress compared herself to Sunshine, a young woman with dreams and potential who experiences painful setbacks.
“Sunshine is someone who had a bright future ahead of her, but she stumbled and made mistakes. In many ways, I saw myself in her,”
Racal admitted that there were moments in her life when she felt she had lost everything and wondered whether she should stop pursuing her goals. However, she said she eventually realized that falling does not mean a person’s story is over.
“You can question yourself and feel broken, but that doesn’t erase who you are,”
she said.
The actress dedicated her award to director Antoinette Jadaone, the entire Sunshine production team, and women who continue to fight for themselves despite adversity.
“This award is for every woman who chooses to rise again after falling,”
she added.
Before the ceremony began, Racal said she was simply looking forward to watching the winning moments of other nominees and hearing their speeches. When her own name was announced, she reacted with surprise and excitement, saying she could hardly believe she was finally experiencing a Best Actress victory.
She also expressed admiration for the performances of the other nominees and shared the recognition with them.
Racal was later seen applauding warmly when Rico Blanco was announced as one of the Best Supporting Actor winners. Asked about his recognition, she said she was genuinely happy for him and wished he had still been at the venue when she accepted her own award.
Fresh from her latest achievement, Racal said she hopes to continue exploring different genres, including romantic comedies, while taking on more diverse and demanding roles. Although she kept details of her next project under wraps, she assured fans that more exciting work is on the way.
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