
Actor-turned-politician Matthew Mendoza was recently seen once again at showbiz events, marking a rare public appearance.
The former actor, now a Puerto Princesa councilor, showed full support for his daughter Bea, who is part of the Metro Manila Film Festival entry I'm Perfect.
The film stars young actors with Down syndrome, just like Matthew's child.
Matthew was first seen attending the film's premiere. Then last night, December 27, he once again accompanied his daughter to the “Gabi ng Parangal,” where the movie won Best Picture.
According to the actor, he and his wife did not hesitate to allow their child to be part of the film.
“Of course, agree kami kaagad. We support yung Down Syndrome Association of the Philippines, part kami niyan since ipinanganak siya hanggang ngayon. Advocacy naming ng wife ko 'yan,” Matthew said in a short interview after the awards.
In fact, the actor was also left speechless because of how proud he is of his child.
“Ang hirap to put into words kung gaano ka-proud ako ngayon,” he added.
Related gallery: MMFF 2025 entries and their MTRCB ratings
He shared that he felt the same way about the film's victory.
“It's a feeling na mahirap sabihin. Talagang hindi ako makapaniwala,” said the actor-politician.
He further added, “Nakita ko na pinaghirapann talaga nila 'yan. Kami, we're always flying from Palawan to Manila. Yung pagkapanalo nila, talagang ano… Hindi ko ma-explain, e. Hindi ko mabuo yung words, e.
“Gaya nga ng sinasabi nila, 'Yes, we can.' Kaya nila. Sinasabi natin na hindi nila kaya, pero kaya nila at napatunayan nila. Nanalo sila ng award ngayong gabi, so kaya nila. Bigyan natin sila ng chance.”
Related gallery: Celebrities who showed their unconditional love for their relatives with special needs