‘The Filipino Film Fest’ announces 10 finalists

Image: Facebook/The Filipino Festival

MANILA, Philippines—Ten filmmakers are moving on to the finals of “The Filipino Film Fest,” one of the major events in the first-ever celebration of “The Filipino Festival” next month.

Empire Holdings Inc., organizer of The Filipino Festival, had earlier made a call for promising filmmakers to take part in the film fest, and this yielded 60 entries. From among the submissions, the following make up the 10 finalists:

• “Tay Padala” by Angelo O. Fernando
• “A Confession” by John Wilbert Sucaldito
• “Golden Hour” by Ruzzel John Palomillo
• “To Ken with Love” by Mike Talplacido
• “Live Streaming: Binge-Watcher” by Guillermo Sanchez
• “Ang Pagliligtas sa Dalagang Bukid” by Jaime Morados
• “S’ya” by Eudel Ayuban
• “See You, George” by Mark Moneda

The finalists were announced on The Filipino Festival’s Facebook page on Sept. 29, and said the entries will be screened at Estancia Cinema 2 at Estancia Mall in Pasig City on Oct. 18, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The red carpet will be rolled out on the occasion, and the delegates of the first-ever The Miss Philippines Culture and Heritage Celebration are expected to grace the event in their stylish formal wear. The search is also part of The Filipino Festival, along with the Mister Pilipinas Worldwide competition.

The organizers had earlier announced the finalists for “The Filipino Music Fest,” and the songs will be performed at the month-long festival’s opening event to be held at the 12 Monkeys Music Hall and Pub at Estancia Mall on Oct. 5. “Diamond Soul Siren” Nina will headline the musical feast, where groups I Belong to the Zoo and Driven 2.0 are also expected to perform.

Soon to be announced are the finalists who will showcase their designs at “The Filipino Fashion Fest” that will also be held at Estancia Mall. There, the selected designers will present their collections on the runway, which will also feature the creations of some of the best names in the local industry.

The Filipino Festival is a celebration of Philippine culture and heritage through various events. Aside from showcasing films, music and fashion, the month-long festivities will also champion the country’s cuisine and crafts through “The Filipino Food and Products Fest.”

The celebration will culminate in the back-to-back final competitions of The Miss Philippines and Mister Pilipinas Worldwide at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on Oct. 24. Reigning Miss Supranational Andrea Aguilera from Ecuador will make an appearance in the twin events.  /ra