MANILA, Philippines – John Lloyd Cruz announced that he will be part of the jury for the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2016.
In an interview on ABS-CBN on Tuesday, December 13, after the network's Christmas special, John Lloyd said that he will be spending Christmas in the Philippines because of his duties for the film festival.
"I am very excited to be part of the MMFF jury this year. It’s very exciting kaya dito lang ako (that's why I'll just be here in the Philippines). I’m going to be here. Gusto ko maranasan 'yung Pasko na kasama 'yung (I want to experience a Christmas with the) Philippine cinema,” John Lloyd said.
He also said that he was looking forward to watching all 8 MMFF entries especially Star Cinema's Vince, Kath, and James, starring Joshua Garcia, Julia Barretto, and Ronnie Alonte.
The jury is set to decide which of the MMFF movies will win the festival's awards.
In a text message to Rappler, MMFF Executive Committee (ExeCom) representative and Public Relations Head Noel Ferrer confirmed that the multi-awarded actor will be part of the jury.
Last year, John Lloyd starred in Honor Thy Father, one of the movies in the 2015 MMFF. It was disqualified from the Best Film category a day before the awards night.
The issue was raised at the House of Representatives early this year and it instigated a probe on the other irregularities of the festival.
Since the events surrounding the MMFF 2015, the festival been through a lot of changes, including its submission rules and Executive Committee members.
John Lloyd, who appeared in two of Lav Diaz's acclaimed movies this year – Ang Babaeng Humayo andHele sa Hiwagang Hapis won the Best Actor last June for the movie Honor Thy Father. – Rappler.com