Veteran actress Divina Valencia appealed to the organizers of the 72nd Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) to reimburse the money spent by Eva Darren during her preparation as a presenter of the awards night.
It can be recalled that Eva was reportedly replaced at the last minute during the controversial event, which prompted thousands of netizens to criticize FAMAS.
The incident was revealed by Eva’s son, who said that the veteran actress had spent money and effort and believed that she would present the awards at the event.
Divina, Eva’s close friend, believed it would be better for FAMAS to return the expenses made by Eva.
“Masakit para sa anak, at sa mga apo na inaasahan nila na gumastos ng ganoon [sa] make-up, hairdo, damit, driver, gas, etc. Dapat lang Madam FAMAS, ibalik mo lahat nang nagastos ni Miss Eva Darren. ‘Yong kahihiyan hindi niya na maibabalik ‘yon, habambuhay nang kahihiyan ‘yon. At hindi lang sa kaniya, kundi kahihiyan ng anak niya at mga apo niya,” Divina said.
As of this writing, there is still no clear explanation of how the incident happened.
According to their statement, FAMAS replaced Eva because they couldn’t find her at the venue.
However, the 72nd FAMAS social media manager, Johnrey Rivas, claimed that Eva was not approved to become the presenter of the show and was replaced by Nova Villa, who was also replaced at the last minute due to her request.
FAMAS has yet to give a response to Divina’s request.