
Veteran actress Eva Darren and her family have finally responded to the organizers' apology about the alleged disrespectful treatment on her at the recent 72nd Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards.
Eva's son, Fernando de la Pena, once again took to Facebook to convey their message.
First, he thanked those who supported and shared news of his mother's unjust experience during the awards ceremony.
Fernando wrote, "My Dear Facebook Family… we truly appreciate the overwhelming display of love and support. Once again the people have spoken and proved that the keyboard is mightier than the sword. Salamat my kinakapatid Reb Belleza and Miss Maila Gumila for spreading the word. My mom is one tough cookie, she is a battle-tested survivor of life's arena. Ms. Eva Darren has found some comfort in the midst of a loving family which includes you all."
He then clarified that veteran actor Mr. Tirso Cruz III, who was originally paired with Eva Darren on stage; and their contact person, FAMAS PR Officer Mr. Renz Spangler; were not involved in the incident. They, too, were confused by what occurred during the event.
"We also know that Mr. Tirso Cruz III (Veteran actor loved by all, donor of many camping tents when I was a Boy Scout in grade school) and the PR Officer of FAMAS Mr. Renz Spangler (An incredible author and lover of classic cinema), have nothing to do with what happened and just the same, were casualties of someone's questionable backstage judgment."
Then, Fernando expressed their acceptance of FAMAS' apology and offered advice to prevent such mistakes.
"For the reasons I stated above and on behalf of my mother, Ms. Eva Darren, our family accepts the olive branch that FAMAS has extended and only hope that future events would prove to be contrasting."
He added, "I understand that we are but a small voice in the back row of a rowdy crowd, but if I may humbly, personally, recommend two things for the 73rd FAMAS Awards Night: Please stick to the script…and maybe a nice pair of eyeglasses for all in charge."
The incident unfolded when Fernando disclosed Eva's disrespectful experience at the event, where she was replaced by a younger star in presenting an award.
Following this revelation, FAMAS issued an apology statement to Eva and her family, explaining that the decision was made because they couldn't locate the actress during the live show.