The “Divine Diva” Zsa Zsa Padilla expressed deep disappointment and hurt following her experience at the Aliw Awards 2025, where she said she felt disrespected and disregarded despite being honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
In an Instagram post dated December 16, Zsa Zsa shared that she initially felt immense joy upon learning she was among the recipients of the prestigious award, which recognized her 42 years in the entertainment industry. Expecting a meaningful moment, she chose not to prepare a written speech, believing it would be more heartfelt to speak spontaneously.
“I didn’t prepare a written speech, thinking it would be better to speak from the heart,” she wrote. “After all, I had so much to be grateful for, having been in this industry for 42 years.”
She added that she intended to keep her remarks brief, especially since members of her family were present to support her that night.
However, what transpired left her stunned. According to Zsa Zsa, all Lifetime Achievement Award recipients were simply called onstage, handed their trophies, and then ushered off by the production staff without being given a chance to speak.
“We waited, assuming we would be allowed to say a few words,” she said. “Instead, a production staff member eventually signaled for us to step down.”
The moment left her emotional and embarrassed.
“I felt like crying. To be dismissed so abruptly after supposedly being ‘honored’ was shocking,” she added.
Because of the incident, Zsa Zsa decided to return the award, stating that what was missing from the ceremony was sincerity.
“Instead of feeling honored, I was left feeling small as I walked off that stage,” she wrote.
Alice Reyes, the founder and president of the award-giving body has since issued an apology for the faux pas.
Part of her statement read, “I am truly sorry for disappointing Zsa Zsa whom I admire for her beauty and talent. Perhaps we can find a way to make up for it in the future.”
