MANILA, Philippines – The independent film “Santa Nina” starring Kapamilya actor Coco Martin was the big winner at the first-ever ASEAN International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA) held Saturday night in Malaysia.
“Santa Nina,” an entry to last year’s Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival, won three awards, including best drama picture.
Filipino stars bagged most of the acting trophies, with Alessandra de Rossi winning best actress for her performance in “Santa Nina,” while veteran actress Anita Linda was named best supporting actress also for the same film.
Kapamilya child actor Bugoy Carino won the best supporting actor trophy for his performance in another independent movie, “Alagwa,” starring Jericho Rosales, who was nominated for best actor but lost to Malaysia’s Shaheizy Sam for “Songlap.”
“Santa Nina” also received nominations for best director (Emmanuel Quindo Palo) and best editing.
Another Filipino indie film, “The Kidnappers of Ronnie Lazaro,” was nominated for best picture-comedy, while Filipina singer Ima Castro performed at the awards night.
Hollywood star Michelle Yeoh received the AIFFA Lifetime Achievement Award.
The three-day event, which ran from March 28 to 30 at the Malaysian city of Kuching, included screenings of films from in and outside the Southeast Asian region.
Photo from Jericho Rosales' Instagram account
Despite losing out in the best actor category, Rosales took to Twitter to thank his supporters. “Thank you for this memorable experience #AIFFA2013 ! We are truly honored! More power and God bless you all! See u nxt year!” he tweeted.
Rosales attended the AIFFA with girlfriend Kim Jones.
