KATHRYN Bernardo and Daniel Padilla added a new award to their trophy cabinets after being recognized at the Asia Artist Awards (AAA) 2023, held for the first time in the Philippines.
The former sweethearts were among the Filipino stars who shone brightly at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan on Thursday, December 14, as they won the AAA Fabulous Award.
The same award was given to K-pop idols Stray Kids and New Jeans, and Korean trot singer Lim Young-woong.
Considered Asia’s Oscars and Grammy Awards, the AAA has been honoring outstanding achievements in fields such as music, television and film since it was launched in 2016.
The ex-couple went up the stage separately to receive their trophies and give their acceptance speeches.
The 28-year-old actor gave a short gratitude message to fans and AAA for bestowing the award to him.
He greeted the audience with, “Magandang gabi po sa inyong lahat” and “Annyeong” with a subtle laugh. He ended his speech with a peace sign, drawing cheers from his fans.
Meanwhile, Bernardo introduced herself to the crowd, which included Filipino and Korean artists, as a “Filipina actor,” earning louder cheers from the audience.
She began her speech by saying that it was an honor for her to be one of the awardees, along with the “beautiful and talented people” who graced the star-studded event.
“Thank you so much AAA for this fabulous award. This is my first time attending this. Nakaka-proud na bilang Pilipino tayo yung nagho-host ng ganitong event, ‘di ba?” said the 27-year-old actress.
Bernardo also took the opportunity to thank those who supported Filipino-made films and television series.
“Patapos na yung taon but I feel so blessed and I’m sharing this award to all of you. Maraming, maraming salamat and have a good night!” she said, blowing a kiss to the crowd.
The AAA Fabulous Award is Bernardo’s latest recognition from a South Korean award-giving body, after her Outstanding Asian Star win at the 2023 Seoul International Drama (SDA) Awards.
Meanwhile, their AAA appearance is the second time that Bernardo and Padilla were seen together in public, two weeks since they confirmed their breakup.
The two young stars, popularly known as KathNiel, were last seen on stage singing The Rembrandts’ “I’ll Be There For You” during the ABS-CBN Christmas Special.
Fans react
Fans, on the other hand, couldn’t be prouder of the two celebrities, specifically of Bernardo.
One netizen praised the Kapamilya actress for delivering a “well-constructed speech.”
Another X (formerly Twitter) user said Bernardo made a “powerful” impact when she introduced herself to the crowd.
But some fans weren’t quite happy with how Padilla appeared to be “making fun” of the South Korean greeting.
Nonetheless, other KathNiel fans congratulated the two and said they would continue being there for them.
