Manila Bulletin

Bea Alonzo is ‘Asia’s next big star’

- By REGINA MAE PARUNGAO

Bea Alonzo has what it takes to be one of Asia’s next big star, according to Variety magazine. The actress, 32, was honored with the “Asian Stars: Up Next” award at the closing ceremony of the 4th Internatio­nal Film Festival & Awards Macao (IFFAM) held recently. The recognitio­n seeks to “help Asia’s talent cross borders onto an internatio­nal or global stage.”

“It’s a huge privilege for me to be awarded by Variety as one of the Asian Stars: Up Next,” she said in a statement sent to media.

Variety listed Bea alongside Yoona of South Korea, Bhumi Pednekar of India, Lien Binh Phat of Vietnam, Asmara Abigail of Indonesia, Ryota Katayose of Japan, Praewa Suthamphon­g and Jennis-Oprasert of Thailand.

During the press presentati­on, the awardees took part in a hand print ceremony.

Filipino actors who were previously awarded with the same were Piolo Pascual and Anne Curtis.

“My hope is for Filipino actors to be able to cross borders and to be known worldwide,” Bea said.

According to her, there is so much talent in the Philippine­s that the world needs to see.

“…I feel like we are just starting. It’s an exciting time for the film industry in the Philippine­s, there so many young filmmakers that are joining the Internatio­nal festivals and are doing films that also cater to the niche market. I feel so grateful to be part of this industry that I love so much, during this time,” she added.

Bea gained greater popularity through her film ”Eerie,” alongside Charo Santos-Concio, that was screened at the Singapore Internatio­nal Film Festival.

 ??  ?? The Filipino actress in hand print ceremony
The Filipino actress in hand print ceremony
 ??  ?? Bea Alonzo (Instagram/Star Cinema)
Bea Alonzo (Instagram/Star Cinema)

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