Veteran singer and actress Zsa Zsa Padilla is returning her Lifetime Achievement Award from the Aliw Awards Foundation, describing her experience at the ceremony as “deeply disappointing” and disrespectful.
The ‘Divine Diva’ Padilla was one of this year’s Lifetime Achievement honorees alongside Lani Misalucha, Jed Madela, Gary Valenciano, and Frankie Asinero. However, she revealed that she was denied the opportunity to speak onstage, leaving her award feeling hollow.
In an Instagram statement on Tuesday, Padilla recounted her initial excitement. “When I received word that I had been chosen as a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award, I was elated. I didn’t prepare a written speech, thinking it would be better to speak from the heart,” she said, reflecting on her 42-year career.
She had intended to honor the producers, directors, musical directors, musicians, writers, production teams, fellow artists, and fans who shaped her journey. Her family was also present to celebrate the milestone.
“But what happened during the awarding left me shocked and deeply disappointed,” Padilla said.
She explained that all Lifetime Achievement Award recipients were called to the stage together, but only three—herself, Lani Misalucha, and Frankie Asinero—were physically present. After receiving their awards, they waited for the chance to speak but were abruptly asked to step down by a production staff member.
“To be dismissed so abruptly after supposedly being ‘honored’ was shocking and embarrassing. What was the point of being there with our families?” she said.
Outside the ballroom, Padilla delivered what she called her “acceptance speech” to a vlogger, highlighting the irony of the situation. “Afterward, I felt like crying. I was still dumbfounded by how the awarding was handled,” she added.
Padilla urged the Aliw Awards Foundation to rethink how it honors recipients. She suggested video presentations to explain the achievements of honorees and called for equal treatment for all awardees.
“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 said. She hopes the gesture prompts the foundation to treat artists with the respect they deserve.
The Aliw Awards Foundation has recognized the Philippines’ top live performers in theater, concerts, and live events for 38 years.
Photo: GMA Network
