Marian Rivera Wins Best Actress at the First-Ever PAFTA for 'Balota' — And She's Not Done Collecting Awards
Marian Rivera has added yet another Best Actress trophy to her growing collection, winning Movie Actress of the Year at the inaugural Philippine Arts, Film, and Television Awards (PAFTA) for her role as Teacher Emmy in the Cinemalaya film 'Balota.' She tied with Rebecca Chuaunsu, who won for 'Her Locket.'
"Nakakataba ng puso," Marian said when she learned of the win. "Akala ko tapos na, so patuloy pa rin yung pagbibigay-pugay kay Teacher Emmy." She added that making a film that contributes something meaningful to the country is what makes the work truly satisfying — spoken like someone who knows the role was special.
This is now the third major Best Actress award 'Balota' has earned for Marian, following wins at the Cinemalaya Film Festival 2024 and the FAMAS Awards 2025. The film, which tells the story of a teacher fighting to protect votes in her hometown while desperately protecting herself and her son, clearly struck a chord with audiences and critics alike.
PAFTA, organized by the Philippine Academy of Film and Television Arts, is a brand-new award-giving body aiming to recognize the best in Filipino film and television. For Marian to win at its very first ceremony cements her place as one of Philippine cinema's most acclaimed actresses of the moment.
Meanwhile, the Kapuso Primetime Queen is keeping busy as the head of the Dance Authority on 'Stars on the Floor' Season 2. She teased that this season has "unexpected collaborations" and she already has favorites among the contestants. "Nakikita ko yung mga potentials talaga," she said. Marian being Marian — winning awards and running shows at the same time.
Source: GMA News
