MANILA, Philippines - Alden Richards is having a moment, and his recent recognition has just cemented the fact that, indeed, this is the GMA-7 star's time.
The 23-year-old actor received the Best Drama Actor at the 28th Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards for Television held at the Kia Theater in Quezon City on Thursday.
READ: Alden Richards, Maja Salvador lead winners of 29th Star Awards for TV
Alden won the award for his portrayal of Dr. Jose Rizal in the GMA-7 historical mini-series "Illustrado," a role he did before he became part of "Eat Bulaga" and one-half of the AlDub love team with Maine "Yaya Dub" Mendoza.
The "Eat Bulaga" mainstay has a won a number of awards, particularly for his breakthrough role in his first soap opera "Alakdana," but this is the first time Alden won a best actor honor.
"Wow, iba yung feeling," Alden said when he received his best actor award. "Salamat kay Lord for giving me the opportunity and the talent."
He thanked his family, GMA-7 and GMA Artist Center in his speech, as well as his fans.
"Of course, sa Aldenatics (the name of his fans club) for the neverending support. Maraming salamat," Alden said.
He added, "Gusto ko rin pasalamatan ang AlDub Nation (the fans club of the Alden and Yaya Dub love team) na kahit ngayon pa lang tayo nagkakakilala, you're there to support me."
Alden ended his speech with a quote that references his wait for his big showbiz break since entering the industry in 2011.
"Before I leave this stage, I would like to leave you this quote: 'Happy is the person who learns to wait as he prays and never loses his patience because in God's time is the perfect time'," he said.
Check out photos of Alden Richards and the other winners of the 29th PMPC Star Awards for Television in the slideshow below:
All photos by Philstar.com/Efigenio Toledo IV