The Philippine entertainment industry is buzzing following a social media post from the “Divine Diva” herself, Zsa Zsa Padilla. What was supposed to be a night of celebration turned into a moment of deep “pagkadismaya” after the veteran singer felt disrespected during the Aliw Awards Foundation ceremony held on Monday, December 15.
Padilla, a pillar of the industry for 42 years, was set to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. However, the manner in which the award was conferred led her to a drastic decision: returning the trophy.
A Night of “Pagkadismaya”
Zsa Zsa shared that she arrived at the event with high spirits, accompanied by family members who have been her constant source of support. She chose not to prepare a formal “speech na sasambitin,” opting instead to speak from the heart to thank the producers, directors, musicians, and her loyal fans who have stood by her for over four decades.
The disappointment began when all Lifetime Achievement Awardees were called to the stage simultaneously. Only three were present: Zsa Zsa Padilla, Lani Misalucha (Live Performance), and Frankie Asinero (Classical Music).
According to Padilla:
- After the trophies were handed out, the recipients waited for the traditional opportunity to speak.
- Instead of a microphone, a production staff member signaled them to leave the stage immediately.
- Zsa Zsa recalled asking Lani Misalucha, “Wala ba man lang tayong speech?!” before they were ushered off.
“What Was Missing Was Sincerity”
The singer expressed her “pagkabigla” over the lack of “respeto at pagpapahalaga.” She pointed out a glaring inconsistency in the program’s flow, noting that other winners that evening were given ample time to express their gratitude.
“Everyone else that evening was given the chance to speak after receiving their awards… When Jona won, she was still in her plain clothes, yet production waited until she could step onstage… Rachel Alejandro arrived late but still received an award for a colleague and was able to give a short thank-you speech.”
Zsa Zsa emphasized that the lack of video presentations explaining the recipients’ contributions made the honor feel hollow. She noted that while she is familiar with the “body of work” of peers like Gary Valenciano and Jed Madela, it would have been “meaningful” to learn more about the other honorees.
The Decision to Return the Award
Feeling “small” and “dumbfounded” by the abrupt dismissal, Zsa Zsa decided that keeping the trophy would not sit right with her conscience.
“Instead of feeling honored, I was left feeling small as I walked off that stage. For that reason, I am returning the award to you,” she stated directly to the Aliw Awards leadership.
She ended her statement with a firm plea for the foundation to “do better” in the future, ensuring that those who have dedicated their lives to the arts are treated with the dignity their “puhunan” of time and talent deserves.