World Premieres Film Festival opens in Manila

Manila, Philippines — Following the success of Filipino films in the international stage, it is the country’s turn to open its doors to global narratives and foreign filmmakers.

On Sunday evening, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) launched the first ever World Premieres Film Festival (WPFF) at One Esplanade in Manila.

Renowned directors, celebrities and foreign dignitaries flocked to attend the event and show their support for the 41 films featured in the festival.

The opening night was kicked off by performances and a speech from FDCP chairman Briccio Santos.

“Tonight we witness the opening of one more occasion of historic significance. The Philippines’ first ever World Premieres Film Festival celebrating global cinema…global narratives and global audience,” he said.

“The World Premieres Film Festival Philippines is a celebration of the richness and diversity of distinct film cultures around the world.”

Santos explained that film is an art form that people can easily relate to, despite coming from different countries, cultures and socio-political circumstances.

“At the very core of a successful film is a real human story we can all understand and relate to,” he added.

Santos, who is an award-winning director, said the festival “highlights the synergy the Philippines has fostered with various nations from all corners of the world.”

During the opening night, the audience was treated to a sneak peek of the eight films vying for the prestigious awards under the main competition.

Among the films competing is “Mula sa Kung Ano ang Noon (From What is Before)” by Lav Diaz, who recently bagged the Best Picture at the Gawad Urian Awards for “Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan (Norte, the End of History).”

In addition to the eight main competition films are several other motion pictures under the sections Euroview, Asean Skies, and Ibero-America.

Santos also boasted of the festival’s Cine Verde section featuring environmental themes. He said the Cine Verde competition is particularly of interest to the Philippines because of the country’s recent typhoon experiences.

Among the Filipino filmmakers who attended the WPFF were Joel Lamangan, Gil Portes, Peque Gallaga and Ed Lejano. Also present were local stars Iza Calzado, Bianca King, Rhian Ramos and Ronnie Henares.

Ambassadors and diplomats from Europe, Asia and Latin America also showed their support for the project and the filmmakers.

For more information on the festival and the featured films visit www.wpff.ph.

The films will be screened at SM cinemas from July 2 to July 8.