National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor was unable to attend the grand media conference for her upcoming horror film, ‘Mananambal’, held on February 6 at Viva Café, Cubao, Quezon City.
The Viva Films event was attended by the film’s lead stars Kelvin Miranda, EA Guzman, Bianca Umali, Martin Escudero, and Jeric Gonzales, along with director Adolf Alix Jr. However, Aunor’s absence left fans and the media wondering about her condition.
Director Adolf Alix Jr. addressed the press and immediately clarified that health concerns prevented the veteran actress from attending.
“Alam naman po natin na napaka-sensitive ng sitwasyon ni Ate Guy,” he said. “May advice po kasi sa kanya ang doktor na i-limit ang pagdalo niya sa public gatherings dahil sa kanyang kalagayan.”
Alix further explained that Aunor remains fully committed to promoting the film but must prioritize her well-being.
“Gusto niya po kayong makasama, pero kailangan niyang piliin ang mga events na dadaluhan,” he added.
The director mentioned that if Aunor receives medical clearance, she might attend the film’s premiere night.
“Kapag bumuti-buti ang kanyang kondisyon, baka makapunta siya sa premiere,” he shared.
In the meantime, the production team is looking for ways to involve Aunor in the film’s promotions, possibly through virtual appearances or recorded messages for her fans.
‘Mananambal’ follows a group of content creators who travel to Sitio Cambugahay to find Lucia (Aunor), a mysterious traditional healer whose abilities have gone viral.
Along the way, they meet Alma (Bianca Umali), Lucia’s daughter, who wishes to break free from her mother’s legacy. However, their curiosity soon turns into a nightmare when they unknowingly provoke supernatural forces beyond their understanding.
Prior to its Philippine release, ‘Mananambal’ gained international recognition at the Jinseo Arigato International Film Festival in Japan (May 2024), where Bianca Umali won Best Dramatic Actress for her role as Alma.
The film is set to premiere in cinemas nationwide on February 19, 2025.
