12 Short Films premiered at ICT Film Festival

For 3 years, the art of independent filmmaking is brewing at West Visayas State University – Lambunao Campus through the passionate efforts of Mr. Regio Roa, an instructor at the School of Information Technology. This year, the School of Information and Communications Technology organized the event called “ICT Film Festival,” showcased 12 independent short films produced by first year Information Technology students showcasing various social and cultural issues. The film festival premier and judging of film entries was held on February 23, 2015 from 8AM to 3PM at the WVSU-LC Audio Visual Room. The panel of judges composed of Ilonggo national awardee for film and photography Ronny Poblacion, multimedia artist and writer Ronelo Ladiao, WVSU-LC school librarian and photography practitioner Eden Funtillon, Professor Rhea Bunda and Lambunao Tourism Officer Jennifer Osorio. 12 independent short films competed in various awards and showcased social issues that directly affect the mindset and perspective of the youth today. The winners of the film festival are: Best Actress - Karen Sibag for the filmn “Pukaw,” Best Actor - Angelo Quijada for the film “Iwag,” Best in Sound Effects and Production Design was bagged by the film “Sapatos,” Best in Cinematography was awarded to the film “Royal,” Best in Poster Design was awarded to the film “Venus,” the 4th Runner-up film is “Iwag” directed by Kleo Pakardo; the 3rd Runner-up Film goes to “Pukaw” directed by Justine Leagogo;  the 2nd Runner-up film was bagged by “Senyas” directed by Mhay Ann Garcia, the 1st Runner-up film went to “Royal” directed by Antoneth Cepida and the Best Film goes to “Sapatos” directed by Jeremiah Castillo. The winning entries will be sent to several local film festivals to raise awareness on sensitive social issues and promote independent filmmaking among local artists. “Sapatos,” the winning film entry tells the story of a pair of shoes who was used and pass over from one owner to another while looking for its true purpose of existence. The film’s abstract relevance with life and reality provides a poignant emotion and perspective.  Next year, the Municipality of Lambunao and its Tourism Office will work with the organizers to improve the film festival by encouraging young filmmakers in showcasing the local culture, traditions and beliefs in Lambunao.