Fil-Canadian actors nominated in film/TV awards in Canada

Photo from lissawithtwoss and Edward Escobal/Instagram and Facebook

Filipino-Canadian actors Lissa Neptuno and Edward Escobal have earned nominations for Best Performance in a Short Film at the upcoming Union of British Columbia Performers/Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (UBCP/ACTRA) awards.

The prestigious annual awards ceremony celebrates the outstanding contributions of talented performers in the industry over the past year. It is set to take place on Nov. 25 at the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver.

Neptuno, known for her versatility as an actor, writer, and producer, earned a nomination for her remarkable supporting role in the 2022 short film, “Little Manila.”

Directed by fellow Filipino-Canadian Harley Maranan, the short film weaves a touching narrative about a Vancouver-based travel agent’s heartfelt endeavor to recreate her Filipino housemaid’s childhood home before her housemaid’s passing.

Escobal, another outstanding Canadian Filipino talent, received a nomination for his lead role in “Paco.” Directed by Kent Donguines, “Paco” delves into the life of a Filipino immigrant residing in Canada who conceals his hardships from his family back in the Philippines, maintaining the facade of a successful life in his new homeland.

In an Instagram post, Neptuno expressed her heartfelt appreciation, stating, “Grateful to the committee, this community, #mamm17 , @vaffvancouver @harley_mar and to the Little Manila team for everything.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lissa Neptuno (@lissawithtwoss)

Escobal also shared his gratitude in a Facebook post.


This year’s UBCP/ACTRA Awards will be the 12th edition of the event, emphasizing the outstanding achievements and contributions of its members across eight categories.

These categories include Best Lead and Supporting Performances in Motion Pictures and Series, Best Performance in Made-for-TV Movies, Shorts, Voice Acting, and Stunt Work.

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As the ceremony draws closer, excitement is building within the Canadian Filipino community and the entertainment industry to see if Neptuno and Escobal will take home the prestigious awards. The recognition of their talent and contributions adds another layer of diversity and representation to the Canadian film scene.