In celebration of 110 years of Philippine Cinema, the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (Mowelfund) presents ANI Awards, a tribute to Filipino movie greats, slated on February 23 at the Aliw Theater.

The grand production to be hosted by comedians Nanette Inventor and Leo Martinez will honor artists who have made significant contribution to the local movie industry. Gracing the show will be Vilma Santos, Sen. Bong Revilla, Christopher de Leon, Rudy Fernandez, Sunshine Cruz, Cesar Montano, Jericho Rosales, Heart Evangelista, Philip Salvador, Toni Gonzaga and many more.

The ANI Awards was spurred by the desire to come up with an event that will pay homage to the icons that has defined Philippine cinema.

Nick de Ocampo, Mowelfund Film Institute director explains, "The Ani Awards is a harvest of the golden years of Philippine cinema through a homage honoring the origins that make its rich tradition. By looking back to the 110 years of Philippine Cinema, we are also in a way looking forward to better years ahead. Indeed, it’s a great way of building tradition."

To be honored by today’s top stars through memorable production numbers are Don Jose Nepomuceno, producer of the first Filipino silent film; National Artist Atang de la Rama, queen of zarzuela and kundiman; legendary screen love team Rogelio de la Rosa and Carmen Rosales; and Rosa del Rosario, the very first Darna of Philippine cinema.

Movie stalwarts will also pay tribute to the King of Philippine Movies and National Artist for Film Fernando Poe, Jr.; the King of Philippine comedy Dolphy; and former President Joseph Estrada, founder of Mowelfund.

"Mowelfund started 32 years ago with a big extravaganza that raised funds for our impoverished movie workers. We wish to replicate that same zeal and commitment from all the industry workers with this tribute, enjoining the young stars of today to honor the senior stars of yesteryears who sowed the glorious years of Philippine cinema with their passion and talent," shares Boots Anson- Roa, Mowelfund executive director.

Mowelfund aims to ensure that marginalized movie workers can still enjoy social security despite tough times in the business.