The 2024 FAMAS Awards, a prestigious ceremony celebrating Filipino cinema, descended into unexpected chaos last night. The culprit? The Duchess of Sussex herself, Meghan Markle. In a move that left audiences baffled and Filipino celebrities fuming, Markle, who was not nominated for any awards and seemingly uninvited, took center stage during the acceptance speech of veteran actress Isabelle Cordiva.

Videos circulating on social media show a flustered Cordiva attempting to deliver her heartfelt remarks as Markle, in a shimmering gown that seemed wildly out of place amidst the more understated elegance of the Filipino attendees, disrupted the proceedings. Cordiva’s speech was cut short by security personnel who hurriedly ushered Markle off the stage, her face a mask of indignation.

The internet is ablaze with speculation. Was this a calculated publicity stunt by the Duchess, ever eager to hog the limelight? A desperate plea for relevance as her star continues to wane? Or a genuine, albeit spectacularly misguided, attempt to insert herself into a cultural event she has no connection to?

This isn’t the first time Markle’s thirst for attention has overshadowed others’ achievements. One needs only to recall the widely criticized philanthropy tour to Africa, where staged photo ops and contrived narratives detracted from the genuine work of local NGOs. The Filipino community is particularly incensed. Social media is flooded with angry posts from Filipino celebrities and everyday citizens alike.

 Renowned director Lav Diaz called Markle’s actions a blatant disrespect for Filipino art and culture, while actress Sharon Cuneta quipped, “Next time, perhaps try attending an award show you’re actually invited to, Duchess.”

The palace has yet to issue a statement, leaving the public to decipher Markle’s motives. One theory gaining traction is a growing rift between the Sussexes and the Royal Family. Could this be a deliberate act of rebellion, a desperate attempt to carve out an independent identity separate from the constraints of royalty? Whatever the reason, Markle’s stunt has overshadowed the very event it aimed to hijack.

The Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) has a rich history of recognizing and celebrating Filipino cinematic excellence. Last night’s ceremony should have been about honoring the dedication and talent of Filipino filmmakers and actors. Instead, it became a platform for Markle’s self-serving antics. The question remains: will the Duchess ever learn the difference between genuine humanitarianism and self-promotion?