Rachel Alejandro wins Best Supporting Actress at MIFF 2025 in Hollywood

Rachel Alejandro receives the MIFF Best Supporting Actress trophy from Hollywood actress Tia Carrere. CONTRIBUTED

NEW YORK – A former child star and the daughter of pop icon Hajji Alejandro, Rachel Alejandro won Best Supporting Actress on March 7 at the 2nd Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Los Angeles for her performance in “Song of the Fireflies.” 

When Tia Carrere announced, “The Best Supporting Actress is…Rachel Alejandro for ‘Song of the Fireflies,’” Rachel’s heart leapt for joy, but her mind raced. “Shucks. I did not have a speech prepared because, to be honest, I hadn’t given our film winning much thought,” she wrote on her Facebook wall. “I didn’t want to leave anyone out that needed to be acknowledged.”

Navigating the stage in high heels, she managed to gather her thoughts. “In the end, all I could think of was my Dad. I dedicated the win to him. Then I felt a surge of gratitude for the miracles that have been happening in our lives. And then, in a comedic twist, I trampled on the mic stand and nearly fell onto the steps!”

MIFF Best Supporting Actress Rachel Alejandro (in lace Filipiniana) with (from right) coproducer Girlie Rodis, MIFF Best Actress Morissette Amon and ‘The Voice’ champion Sofronio Vasquez. Photo from GR Rodis/Facebook

Rachel’s heartfelt moment was just the beginning of her celebration for “Song of the Fireflies,” which tells the inspiring story of the Loboc Children’s Choir (LCC) from Bohol, focusing on themes of resilience, community and the transformative power of music.

“Song of the Fireflies” is also an official selection of the WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, which will take place April and May this year.

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Alejandro – who migrated to New York during the pandemic with her husband, Spanish journalist Carlos Santamaria – expressed her joy and gratitude upon receiving the award, especially since her participation in the festival was uncertain due to an urgent family matter back in Manila.

“We only booked my ticket the day before,” she shared in an interview with Inquirer.net USA.

With First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos at the MIFF gala in Beverly Hills. Photo from GR Rodis/Facebook

“It was a whirlwind decision, and I almost didn’t think I would make it. We didn’t even expect to be in competition because we thought only entries from the Metro Manila Film Festival were being considered. To walk away with Best Supporting Actress was truly a wonderful surprise! I’m incredibly grateful not just for this recognition but also for the success of my co-actors and the film itself, which won Best Picture.”

Song of the Fireflies has captivated audiences with its heartwarming narrative, showcasing the origins of the Loboc Children’s Choir and the determination of its members.

Alejandro was inspired to create the film after witnessing the choir’s extraordinary talent during a special screening of her previous film, “Ang Larawan.”

“In 2018, while I was in Bohol for a screening, I saw the Loboc Children’s Choir perform for the first time, and I was blown away by their talent,” said the Fil-Am actor. “That experience ignited a fire in me, and we quickly realized that their story needed to be told. My hope is that audiences will be inspired by the tenacity, resilience and determination to overcome obstacles and self-doubt shown by the characters in the story. It’s a narrative that resonates with so many, especially in the context of the challenges we face in life.”

The Loboc Children’s Choir from Bohol / CONTRIBUTED

As a co-producer of the film with her friend and longtime manager Girlie Rodis and OPM icon Celeste Legaspi, Alejandro was deeply involved in its creative process alongside director King Palisoc and screenwriter Sarge Lacuesta.

Reflecting on the journey, she said, “The past seven years have been a rollercoaster of emotions. We made mistakes, learned from them, and grew together as a team. Most importantly, we learned never to give up. There were countless hurdles to overcome, but we stayed committed to our vision. The film’s success is a testament to our collective perseverance and passion, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together.”

In her role as Equet Butalid, the wife of the governor of Bohol, Alejandro expertly navigated the complexities of her character, portraying a figure who, while occasionally at odds with the lead character Alma Taldo – played by Morissette Amon (who also won Best Actress) – ultimately contributes to her growth.

‘Song of the Fireflies’ wins five major awards at the 2nd Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), including a special recognition for its world premiere at the film festival.

“My character is not an antagonist; rather, she serves as a foil to Alma,” she explained. “Equet is a nuanced character who shares the same goal as Alma but has her own approach to achieving it, which leads to occasional conflict. It was a tough balancing act to portray her in a way that the audience understands her intentions. I wanted to ensure that just because she sometimes clashes with the lead, she is by no means a villain. If we don’t experience conflict, how do we grow? This dynamic makes their journey even more compelling.”

Audiences have responded passionately to the film, with many moved to tears – not from sadness, but from the uplifting and jubilant musical performances.

Alejandro believes that the universal appeal of music, particularly for Filipinos, plays a vital role in connecting viewers to the film’s message. “Music truly is in our DNA,” she said. “The songs in this film set it apart. Many viewers have told me they were in tears, not because of sadness but due to the sheer joy and emotion the music evoked. It’s a jubilant film, and the performances tug at the heartstrings. Even those who claim they rarely cry while watching films have found themselves moved.”

Since live entertainment resumed post-pandemic, Alejandro has traveled extensively, meeting countless Filipino immigrants whose success stories inspire her.

“I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many remarkable individuals who have overcome incredible odds,” she said. “Many came from nothing and now have their own homes, thriving businesses, and provide a better life for their families. Their resilience and determination never cease to amaze me. It reminds me of the power of community and the importance of supporting one another in our journeys.”

Looking ahead, Alejandro envisions a concert featuring the Loboc Children’s Choir and Morissette, with plans for the film’s Philippine playdates and potential live tours in the works. 

“My dream now is to have a concert with the LCC and Morissette,” she said. “The idea of bringing the music from ‘Song of the Fireflies’ to life on stage is exhilarating. We are currently working on the film’s playdates in the Philippines, and who knows? Perhaps a live show and even a tour will also be in the works! Based on what I’ve learned from this journey, which began in 2018, anything is possible if you believe.”