The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival has expanded its full-length film grants from the initially promised five to six, as a result of a meticulous evaluation of outstanding entries. Vincent Co, President of Puregold, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “The vision for Puregold’s CinePanalo Festival is to establish it as a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talent. I am especially delighted to see two up-and-coming directors earning well-deserved spots in the roster, highlighting the panalo spirit and inclusivity of this competition.”
- Kurt Soberano — “Under a Piaya Moon”
- Sigrid Bernardo — “Pushcart Tales”
- Raynier Brizuela — “Boys at the Back”
- Joel Ferrer — “Road to Happy”
- Carlo Obispo — “A Lab Story”
- Producer’s Choice: Eugene Torres — “One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All”
RELATED: Puregold CinePanalo grants P100,000 each to 25 student filmmakers
Among the finalists is the newcomer Kurt Soberano, a Bacolod-based director with his entry “Under a Piaya Moon.” Soberano, also an actor and writer, has already crafted notable short films such as “Golden Bells” (2022), “Sa Balay ni Papang” (2021), and “Azucar” (2019).
Award-winning filmmaker Sigrid Bernardo secured a coveted slot with “Pushcart Tales.” Recognized for her exceptional work in films like “Anita’s Last Cha-Cha” (2013), “Kita Kita” (2017), and “UnTrue” (2019), Bernardo has received accolades from various local and international film festivals.
Raynier Brizuela, an accomplished director and actor, made it to the finals with “Boys at the Back,” adding to his contributions in films like “Video City: Be Kind, Please Rewind” (2023), “Mang Jose” (2021), and “Asuang” (2018), along with nominations from FAMAS and Cinema One Originals Digital Film Festival.
Joel Ferrer, another seasoned figure in the industry, received a film grant for “Road to Happy.” With an extensive portfolio of 15 films and series, including “Hello World” (2013), “Baka Siguro Yata” (2015), and “Woke Up Like This” (2017), Ferrer has also garnered recognition from local and international film festivals.
Completing the initial list of finalists is Carlo Obispo, presenting “A Lab Story.” An accomplished writer, director, and producer, Obispo has left a mark with films like “Purok 7” (2013), “The Baseball Player” (2022), and “Gasping for Air” (2016), earning awards from reputable institutions.
In a surprising twist, Puregold CinePanalo introduced the “Producer’s Choice” award, given to Eugene Torres for his film “One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All.” Torres, known for his short film “Yujin” (2017) and contributions to films like “Deleter” (2022) and “Gatilyo” (2019), added to the final count of full-length category finalists, which now stands at six.
Each finalist will receive a grant of P2,500,000 to cover production costs, along with free color grading by Optima Digital and a grocery package from Puregold. The films must have a minimum runtime of 90 minutes, with a submission deadline set for March 1, 2024.
The selected films will premiere at Gateway Cinemas in Araneta City Cubao during the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival from March 15 to 17, 2024, with potential regional screenings to follow.
The distinguished selection committee, featuring veteran film and television director Jeffrey Jethurian, award-winning filmmaker Victor Villanueva, Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Lyle Gonzales of Republic Creative, and Puregold CinePanalo festival director Chris Cahilig, played a crucial role in the selection process.
Ivy Hayagan-Piedad expressed excitement for what comes next, stating, “Navigating through so much talent and creativity during deliberations was no walk in the park. The finalists’ films are very refreshing, and I cannot wait for people to witness these cinematic masterpieces.”
Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Director Chris Cahilig emphasized Puregold’s role, saying, “We will forever be grateful to Puregold for making this possible. It’s not just about seasoned directors showcasing their works; it’s also about allowing fresh new talents a shot at their aspirations. Thank you, Puregold, for giving space to diverse voices in the film industry.”
Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival had previously recognized 25 promising student filmmakers as finalists in the short film category, underscoring the commitment of Puregold to foster emerging talents and advocate for the Filipino youth.
TATAK MNL 
Leave a comment