ACTRESS Iza Calzado was hailed Best Actress at the 2017 Osaka Asian Film Festival in Japan.
The 34-year-old Kapamilya star bagged the coveted Yakushi Pearl Award for her performance in Jerrold Tarog's psychological horror-thriller "Bliss."
Calzado, who personally received her award in Osaka, shared that she had to audition to snatch the role.
She said it was a great experience working for this particular project.
"I got sick twice while filming because the role was very physically and emotionally demanding, especially when you're on set for almost 24 hours. It was challenging but fun," she wrote in an Instagram post.
Calzado then thanked everyone, from the production staff and crew, her mother station ABS-CBN, colleagues in the industry, her parents, family and fans for the undying support.
She also gave a special shout out to businessman boyfriend Ben Wintle who came with her to Japan for the awards ceremony.
"I am so glad you were there last night to capture this moment, sorry I didn't get to mention you on stage as I was super trying to keep it short and was so nervous. Thank you for being a constant source of love and light."
Lastly, Calzado said she is grateful, humbled and inspired to work and added that she is hopeful to continue to make everyone proud.
Produced by Artikulo Uno, the film is one of the three Filipino entries that participated in this year's festival. The other two were "Kita Kita" by Sigrid Andrea Bernardo and "Tisay" by Borgy Torre.
"Bliss" also stars Ian Veneracion and TJ Trinidad.
The film is yet to be released in the country. (VoxPop Philippines)
