Whew. Baptism of fire. Rookie assignment on the field: the 31st Gawad Urian, more so because "my" website, http://www.thepoc.net, (as in the one I work for and work on) is the home of virtual celeb Gandang Hari, who was to present the award forBest Actor. Nerves, nerves, nerves. Especially as I've never been actually that close to celebs before, and I do have a tendency to get starstruck (not good for my profession)!

But we got good seats (first and second row, corners) and could see all the action.

The list of winners can be found here.

Yes, that's me with Best Actor awardee Sid Lucero. Starstruck, as they say. I also got the opportunity to ask Natatanging Gawad Urian awardee Kidlat Tahimik for a few words (and his autograph). And a few words from Best Actor awardee Jason Abalos, and from Sid Lucero's dad Mark Gil... whew! Have I said it yet, I love this job?

Highlights of the evening: Kidlat Tahimik comes up for his award wearing a toga and delivering a monologue (about making a really good film vs a commercial film), launches into an Ifugao dance while beating a small gong, and takes off the toga at the end to receive the award while only in a bahag. Now that's making a statement. Now I know firsthand why he's such a multi-awarded filmmaker. (NB: I saw the ends of the bahag below the toga hem and realized at once what he was going to do. And yes he did. Mamisally's reaction: Aba day! In fairness, flawless ang lolo mo!)

Another highlight: Gandang Hari comes out to present the award in this pink top with floaty sleeves. The crowd goes wild and later on s/he is mobbed by reporters the moment s/he steps out of the stage door.

Ah! This is the life!