MABALACAT City, Pampanga — The Mabalacat City Government on Tuesday celebrated the 50th year in showbiz of Kapampangan film director Elwood Perez.
On the occassion of his golden year in the showbiz industry, Perez – popularly known as “El Maestro” who is a native in this city – was given recognition both by the Pampanga Provincial Government and Mabalacat City Government for his valuable contribution to the movie industry. The tribute also coincided with the celebration of his 75th birthday.
In a solemn event held inside Clark, Mayor Crisostomo Garbo handed over a plaque from the city government, citing his remarkable achievements as a film director and his significant contributions to arts, particularly film making.
Senior Board Member Cherry Manalo, on the other hand, presented its recognition on Perez. She was joined by Board Members Benny Jocson, Fritz David and Nelson Calara.
Also present during the tribute are fellow Mabalaqueños and patron of arts and culture Robbie Tantingco, Alex Castro, Cecil Yumul, ATOP President Arwin Lingat, journalist and PR manager Noel Tulabut, and development managers Frank Madlangbayan and Jeam Espanta.
“We are very proud of you. We join each Mabalaqueño in celebrating your work as film director as you are recognized here and abroad. The city government of Mabalacat and the province of Pampanga honor all people like you who contribute to arts as you bring pride to all of us,” the mayor said during his speech.
For his part, Direk Elwood expressed elation over the honor and recognition that he received from the Provincial Government of Pampanga and the Mabalacat City Government.
“You did not make my day, month or year but you made my life with this honor and recognition. Thank you to Mabalacat and Pampanga officials,” Direk Elwood said in his acceptance speech.
Elwood is a multi awarded film maker, director, writer, showbiz legend, who is a native of Barangay San Francisco in this city.
During the tribute, Perez’ well wishers sent video greetings. They included Direk Brillante Mendoza, Direk Gina Alajar, Direk Laurice Guillen, actresses Snooky Serna, Cherrie Gil, Vilma Santos, Boots Anson-Roa and comedienne Tessie Tomas.
Elwood Perez started making movies in 1970 together with Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal and Celso Ad. Castillo,
For 20 straight years–in the 1970s and the 1980s—Perez made film that broke box office records and won series of awards.
He continued making films in the 1990s and into the new millennium—a feat that few filmmakers can match.
Perez directed the country’s top celebrities like Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, Amalia Fuentes, Rio Locsin, and a host of others.
Among his top films are Lollipops and Roses at Burong Talangka, Ibulong Mo Sa Diyos, Problem Child, and Bilangin Ang Bituin sa Langit.
