Social media buzzed after “Divine Diva” and Kapamilya singer-actress Zsa Zsa Padilla shared her disappointment over how the Aliw Awards Foundation handled the presentation of its Lifetime Achievement Award on Monday, December 15.
Padilla said she was initially honored to be chosen for the prestigious recognition, which acknowledged her 42-year career in the entertainment industry, particularly in music.
She revealed that she chose not to prepare a formal acceptance speech, hoping instead to speak from the heart in thanking the producers, directors, musicians, writers, production teams, fellow artists, and loyal audiences who supported her journey. Members of her family were also present that evening to witness the milestone.
However, the moment turned disappointing when all Lifetime Achievement Award recipients were called onstage at once, with only three present: Padilla, Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha for live performance, and classical music artist Frankie Asinero.
After receiving their trophies, the awardees reportedly waited for the chance to speak, only to be signaled by a production staff to leave the stage.
“I was still dumbfounded by how the awarding was handled. To be dismissed so abruptly after supposedly being ‘honored’ was shocking and embarrassing. What was the point of being there with our families?” Padilla said.
She later addressed Aliw Awards directly, urging the organization to improve how it honors recipients.
“So, Aliw, please do better,” she said, adding that Lifetime Achievement awardees deserve proper recognition, including video presentations explaining their body of work.
Padilla pointed out that other awardees during the same event were given time to speak, citing Jona and Rachel Alejandro as examples.
“What was missing was sincerity,” she added.
Feeling that the honor fell short of its meaning, Padilla announced her decision to return the award.
“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. I hope you understand this gesture and take it as an opportunity to learn how to honor your recipients with the respect they deserve,” she said.