Marian Rivera and Will Ashley are feeling grateful and happy about the big success of their film Balota, which has been winning fans and getting strong support in theaters.
According to a Balitanghali report on Tuesday, Marian was even surprised with a visit from GMA Network executives, including Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, Lilybeth G. Rasonable, and Cheryl Ching-Sy, who congratulated her on the film’s success and the positive feedback it’s receiving.
Marian thanked everyone, saying, “Thank you so much to everyone who has watched and will watch Balota. It looks like it’s going into its third week!”
The actress shared that people appreciate the film’s bold message, which makes them think about important decisions like voting. “As they watch, they realize, ‘Oh, this is how it really is.’ It makes them think about voting wisely,” she said.
Will Ashley, who plays Enzo, Marian’s character Teacher Emmy’s son, expressed his pride for being part of the movie. “I’m so happy and proud to be part of Balota. All our hard work paid off because people appreciate it,” he shared.
Atty. Gozon-Valdes said the movie continues to draw crowds because of its powerful message. “People are talking about it, and it’s becoming a must-watch movie with a message you can’t ignore,” she said.
GMA’s Lilybeth Rasonable added that they never expected Balota to attract so many viewers, with entire families coming to watch, making it even more meaningful.
Balota opened on October 16 and has only grown in popularity. More cinemas are now showing the film, even adding extra screening times. Written and directed by Kip Oebanda, Balota earned Marian the Best Actress award at Cinemalaya in August, which she shared with Gabby Padilla. It also premiered internationally at the Hawaii International Film Festival this October.
Students and teachers can get discounted tickets by showing their school IDs at the theater, making it easier for everyone to experience this film that’s sparking conversations nationwide.
