Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards have once again taken center stage in the world of Philippine entertainment as they were named Box Office Heroes at the 8th Entertainment Editors’ Choice Awards (EDDYs). The award, organized by the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd), recognizes the biggest names whose performances and films made significant cultural and commercial impact.

But this year’s EDDYs offered more than a recognition of commercial success. It unveiled a powerful list of stars who helped redefine Philippine cinema in the past year. From deeply emotional dramas to high-grossing festival films, these stories resonated with millions of viewers. If you think you already know who dominated the screens, think again. Missing this list would mean skipping one of the most important film moments of 2024.

Kathryn Bernardo and Alden Richards were honored for their performance in “Hello, Love, Again,” the much-anticipated sequel to their 2019 hit. Set in Canada, the film follows Joy and Ethan years after their breakup, portraying how life, distance, and personal growth have changed them. The film didn’t just draw in fans for its star power. With a deeply emotional story and beautiful visuals, it became the highest-grossing Filipino film of all time, raking in a record-breaking ₱1.6 billion.

Their recognition as Box Office Heroes at the EDDYs 2024 proves that their influence extends far beyond social media and fan gatherings. They have solidified themselves as cultural icons in Philippine cinema.

But Bernardo and Richards weren’t the only stars shining that night. The EDDYs also recognized a new generation of box office trailblazers. Joshua Garcia and Julia Barretto were awarded for their work in “Un/Happy For You,” a compelling romantic drama that resonated with viewers navigating modern love and uncertainty. The film earned ₱450 million at the box office and proved that emotional storytelling still sells.

Vic Sotto and Piolo Pascual were also honored for “The Kingdom,” one of last year’s most successful Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries. Combining political intrigue and father-son drama, the film captured both box office success and critical attention.

Another standout was “Green Bones,” which featured Ruru Madrid and Dennis Trillo. The film tackled dark and gritty themes around loyalty, family, and survival in the underworld. Its fresh perspective and cinematic quality placed it among the MMFF’s most memorable entries.

Vice Ganda, always a box office draw, took home recognition for “And the Breadwinner Is…”, which became the highest-grossing film of the 2024 MMFF with over ₱400 million in ticket sales. The movie, a smart mix of satire and family comedy, showcased Vice’s continued dominance on the big screen.

Unlike other award shows that rely mostly on popularity votes or social media presence, the EDDYs are grounded in editorial integrity. Organized by SPEEd, a group of professional entertainment editors from top Philippine publications, the awards emphasize storytelling, performance quality, and the film’s contribution to society and culture. To be recognized at the EDDYs means an artist’s work has been thoroughly evaluated by seasoned editors who understand the pulse of Filipino audiences and the deeper values of cinema.

One of the major highlights of the event was the continued success of “Hello, Love, Again.” Directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana, the film beautifully captured the bittersweet nature of reconnection and self-discovery. It asked: Can people truly change? Can love survive the weight of time and personal evolution? These questions, paired with the lead duo’s powerful performances, made the film both a commercial and emotional success.

If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing one of the most important cinematic experiences of recent years. Beyond the romantic storyline, the film is a deep exploration of life abroad, broken dreams, and how people grow in ways they never expected. It’s no wonder the movie’s legacy continues to grow, now with the added weight of an EDDYs award.

Looking ahead, fans are eager to see what’s next for this year’s Box Office Heroes. Reports suggest Kathryn Bernardo may take on a psychological drama, a genre she has yet to explore. Alden Richards is rumored to be in talks for a sci-fi project, something rarely attempted in Philippine mainstream cinema. If confirmed, this would mark a bold shift in both of their careers.

Vice Ganda is also teasing fans with hints of a follow-up to “And the Breadwinner Is…”, which could become another comedy blockbuster. As for other awardees, actors like Joshua Garcia, Julia Barretto, Ruru Madrid, and Dennis Trillo are expected to headline new projects in the coming year, many of which aim to blend artistic depth with mainstream appeal.

The EDDYs this year weren’t just a celebration of box office numbers. They were a powerful reminder of the growing range, diversity, and ambition of Filipino filmmakers and actors. From love stories to political thrillers to biting social commentaries, the local film industry is evolving, and audiences are responding with enthusiasm.

As the 8th EDDYs drew to a close, one thing became clear: the future of Philippine cinema is in very capable hands. These Box Office Heroes aren’t just stars. They are storytellers, boundary-pushers, and visionaries shaping the next chapter of our film history.

For anyone interested in the heart of Philippine entertainment, the EDDYs 2024 is a landmark event. It’s not just about who earned the most — it’s about who made us feel the most.

Stay tuned for more updates on Kathryn Bernardo, Alden Richards, and the future of Filipino cinema. The stories they’re telling are just beginning.