MANILA, Philippines – For the ninth time, Regal Films’ matriarch Lily Monteverde questioned the criteria used by the executive committee of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) in choosing the festival’s best picture.

Monteverde’s film, “Mano Po 6: A Mother’s Love,” has been given the 4th best picture award. Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla’s “Ang Panday” took home the coveted plum.

Monteverde told ABS-CBN News: "I'm also happy but I just want to say something about the criteria of the filmfest. As they were saying, this is based in the box-office, 50%. But based on the record last year, 'Baler,' it's not a box-office [hit]. How come it won the best picture?”

"I just want to clear all these things na dapat next time or next year, just clear kung ano ba ang criteria nila."

“Ang Panday” is currently leading in the box-office, earning P50 million on the 4th day.

The film producer, however, clarified that she is happy for Revilla. "But of course I'm happy for Bong Revilla. Anak ko yon. And I'm happy for him."

Despite her confusion, Monteverde said she is satisfied that “Mano Po 6” took home a total of 7 awards, including best actress for lead star Sharon Cuneta.

In 2006, Star Cinema expressed dissatisfaction after its entry, "Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo,” failed to bag the best picture prize even if it took home all major awards. The award went to Vic Sotto's “Enteng Kabisote 3,” which was a certified box-office hit.