Legarda Congratulates Lav Diaz, Charo Santos for Golden Lion Win in Venice

Senator Loren Legarda today commended independent filmmaker Lav Diaz and actress Charo Santos-Concio for winning the Golden Lion in the 73rd Venice International Film Festival for the film “Ang Babaeng Humayo“ (The Woman Who Left).

Legarda said she will file a Senate Resolution commending Diaz and Santos-Concio.

“Congratulations to Lav Diaz for winning the highest honor in the world’s oldest and one of the most prestigious film festivals! I also commend everyone behind the film, including lead actress, Charo Santos-Concio, who has, once again, showcased mastery of her craft,” the Senator said.

“Lav has been bringing honor to our country with his internationally-acclaimed films, but this time, he has brought great pride not only to the Philippines but also to the region,” said Legarda, noting that among the entries in the In Competition category of the 73rd Venice International Film Festival, Ang Babeng Humayo is the only film from Asia.

The Golden Lion is the top prize at the Venice International Film Festival, which is the oldest film festival in the world. This is the first time that a Filipino film won in the prestigious event.

Diaz said Ang Babeng Humayo is about a wrongly convicted schoolteacher who seeks revenge against the ex-boyfriend who framed her. The film was inspired by Leo Tolstoy’s short story, “God Sees the Truth, But Waits”.

“I am sure that this award will inspire more Filipino filmmakers to craft films that tackle challenging material and take the Philippine film industry to greater heights. I also hope that more Filipinos will appreciate independent films especially when these are shown in our local cinemas,” Legarda said.

In support of the local independent film industry, Legarda has filed Senate Bill No. 395, which will provide incentives to independent filmmakers who are given honor in notable international film competitions. The measure aims to encourage more independent filmmakers to continue doing world-class and uncompromising films.