Meet the stellar actors of Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival

The much-awaited Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival draws closer and closer to its festival run this March 15 to 19 at the Gateway Cineplex 18 in Araneta City, Cubao. The inaugural edition of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival will present six captivating full-length movies along with 25 short films. Positioned as a significant advocate for the Philippine film industry, the festival is gearing up to showcase a diverse range of emerging and seasoned talents through its captivating cinematic offerings.

Centered around the theme of “Mga Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay” (Winning Life Stories), the festival pledges to deliver compelling narratives that celebrate Filipino resilience, triumph, and happiness, thereby nurturing Filipino talent across filmmakers, actors, and actresses.

RELATED: Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival starts March 15 at Gateway

Each full-length feature boasts a meticulously selected ensemble cast that effectively encapsulates the essence of its narrative. Let’s take a look at the six Puregold CinePanalo full movies and the noteworthy actors and actresses, both up-and-coming and established, who comprise their casts.

1. “Pushcart Tales” (Directed by Sigrid Bernardo)

In “Pushcart Tales,” viewers can expect stellar performances from the esteemed Nonie Buencamino and Shamaine Buencamino, renowned for their remarkable contributions to Philippine television, film, and theater. Nonie has left an indelible mark on Philippine Cinema with memorable roles in movies such as “Barber’s Tales” (2013) and “Heneral Luna” (2015), while Shamaine has graced the screens in over 100 movies and television series, including “Niño” (2011), “Prinsesa” (2017), and “When the Waves are Gone” (2022).

Also joining the cast are Carlos Siguion-Reyna, a versatile actor and director known for his notable works like “Where I am King” (2014), “Azucena” (2000), and “Ikaw Pa Lang ang Minahal” (1992); the award-winning Therese Malvar, who previously collaborated with Bernardo in “Ang Huling Cha-Cha in Anita” (2013); Elora Españo, whose credits include “Tandem” (2015), “Sea Serpent” (2017), “Love and Pain in Between Refrains” (2021), and the popular Puregold TikTok series “My Plantito” (2023); and Harvey Bautista, the son of former Quezon City mayor and actor Herbert Bautista.

2. “Boys at the Back” (Directed by Rayn Brizuela)

Directed by Rayn Brizuela, “Boys at the Back” features Noel Comia Jr., recipient of the Cinemalaya Best Actor award for his role in “Kiko Boksingero” (2017), alongside Nicole Omillo, recently cast as Basha in the “One More Chance” musical. The ensemble is rounded out by Bani Baldiserri, Michael Berces, Bob Jbeili, Merry Chris Rodriguez, and Nyle Libranza.

3. “Road to Happy” (Directed by Joel Ferrer)

In “Road to Happy,” actor VJ Mendoza takes on the lead role in his first full-length film, accompanied by veteran comedian and actor Smokey Manoloto, known for his appearances in iconic shows and movies like “Magic Kombat” (1995), “Ang Probinsyano” (2015), and “Home Along da Riles” (1992). The film also stars eight-year-old Darlyn Izabelle Salang, a former contestant on It’s Showtime Mini Miss U, in her debut lead role in a film.

4. “A Lab Story” (Directed by Carlo Obispo)

Headlined by Uzziel Delamide and Potchi Angeles, “A Lab Story” features Donna Cariaga, Ely Cellan, Barbara Miguel, and Krystle Valentino Air in supporting roles. The film also includes a special appearance by award-winning actor Arnold Reyes, known for his outstanding performances in “Birdshot” (2016), “Condo” (2008), and “Astig” (2009).

5. “Under a Piaya Moon” (Directed by Kurt Soberano)

“Under a Piaya Moon” introduces up-and-coming talents Jeff Moses and Pau Dimaranan, alongside established actors Chart Motus and Joel Torre.

6. “One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All” (Directed by Eugene Torres)

“Producer’s Choice One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All” boasts a vibrant ensemble, featuring Drag Race PH Season 1 Ms. Congeniality, Lady Morgana; stand-up comedian Negi Molina; influencer Macoy Dubs; drag queen Omiko “Barbie-Q” Madali; social media sensation Ryan “Matabang Setter” Revita; actor Tommy Alejandrino; and actress Via Antonio. The film also includes a special appearance by international drag queen and host of reality competition Drag Den, Manila Luzon.

The feature-length and short films will be honored at the prestigious Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Awards Night on March 16, 7 p.m., at Cinema 5 of the Gateway Cineplex 18 in Araneta City. The event will be attended by actors, filmmakers, representatives from Puregold, and notable personalities from the Philippine film industry.