Pampelikulang Samahan ng mga Dalubguro (PASADO) honored the outstanding achievements in cinema during the Gawad PASADO Awards. Among the night’s big winners is the remarkable film “Bakit Di Mo Sabihin” which secured three prestigious awards, making it a true standout in this year’s event.
The film, directed by Real S. Florido, garnered a well-deserved recognition as it clinched the titles of “Pinaka-PASADOng Aktres” for its leading lady, Janine Guttierrez, “Pinaka-PASADOng Tunog” for its musical score composed by Ronald De Asis, and “Pinaka-PASADOng Pelikula sa Paggamit ng Wika” for its outstanding use of language.
The Gawad PASADO awards ceremony took place on September 23, coinciding with the International Day for Sign Languages. This fortunate timing provided an opportunity to emphasize the significance of diversity and inclusion in the Filipino film industry in a more impactful manner.
One of the most touching moments of the night occurred when Teacher Jamil and Disney Aguila, a gifted deaf actress, graced the stage to accept their well-deserved awards. Disney Aguila, whose pivotal role in “Bakit Di Mo Sabihin” underlined her exceptional acting skills, used this platform to express her heartfelt thoughts on the unique spotlight that films like this create for individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities.
In a heartfelt speech, Disney Aguila proudly declared, “Proud po ako sa aking deaf identity kasi gumagamit po ako ng Filipino sign language. Gusto ko pong marealize ninyo lahat na iba’t iba ang sitwasyon na dinaranas ng bawat pamilya at kaming deaf ay gumagamit ng Filipino sign language at ang boses namin ay ang aming mga pagkumpas ng kamay.”
Janine Guttierrez, the film’s leading actress, illuminated the event with her presence. Her portrayal in “Bakit Di Mo Sabihin” was an extraordinary performance that earned her the prestigious award of “Pinaka-PASADOng Aktres.” Her dedication to her craft and captivating portrayal of the character deeply resonated with both audiences and critics.
In her passionate speech, Janine Gutierrez spoke of her dreams for greater inclusion in the film industry, saying, “Pangarap ko na balang araw, yung mga deaf roles ang gaganap ay talagang deaf actors. Sana yung deaf community dito sa Pilipinas ay pahalagahan natin at kung meron po tayong oras hinihikayat ko po kayong lahat na aralin ang Filipino sign language.”
As we recognize the accomplishments of “Bakit Di Mo Sabihin” and its outstanding cast and crew, we also celebrate the power of film to inspire positive change, foster empathy, and shed light on the stories and experiences that are often overlooked. It is a powerful reminder that cinema is not only for entertainment but also for education, making it invaluable for our society.
