FROM left: Paul Soriano, Bianca Balbuena, Hazel Orencio and Lav Diaz
The Philippine contingent made it in time for the opening night of the 66th Berlin International Film Festival on Feb. 11. Filmmaker Lav Diaz donned a suit by Rajo Laurel—like executive producer Paul Soriano. Actress Hazel Orencio wore RoyAnne Camillia couture, while producer Bianca Balbuena, Cecilio Abad.
Balbuena told the Inquirer that they got to see Hollywood stars at the gala event—primarily, the cast of the opening film “Hail, Caesar!” led by George Clooney, Tilda Swinton and Channing Tatum.
“We were seated on the second row,” Balbuena pointed out. “[Jury president] Meryl Streep walked toward the edge of the stage, to open the festival. She was so close to us!” Bayani San Diego Jr.
JURY president Meryl Streep
Photos courtesy of Bianca Balbuena