The Philippine Film industry has proven its worth globally as it has received acclaims for several Filipino films over the years. A pride worthy of the blood, sweat and tears the industry has invested with much of the credit goes to sheer talent and passion.

One of these film hero is the acclaimed Director who took a chance off the beaten path and held the first Palawan International Film Festival (PIFF) in San Vicente Palawan.

Direk Dante Nico Garcia whom netizens call Direk Ga or Tito Direk to the millennials. He is widely-known as the director of Judy Ann Santos’ multi-awarded film “Ploning”. He made his dream a reality when he staged PIFF and got a resounding approval from the media.

Direk Ga was overwhelmed with gratitude to all who graced the event especially to a good friend- LJ Javier who helped make all of this possible. Extending his appreciation to partners and sponsors such as Palaweño Brewery, Motolite, Globe, Liberty Grounds, Farm Belle, Club Agutaya, Foxy’s Resort, TKTV, Cinema Regla, Casa Nieves, GaStation, CineMaborit and Marina Terrace.

Situated at the beachfront, the film festival featured several noteworthy films from all over the country, as well as some international film entry. The scene of the festival is very laid back as it composed of native –artistic furniture pieces laid scattered within the vicinity and a few dozen tent, all camped out under the bright starry night of the dreamy town.

San Vicente is a first-class municipality situated in the Palawan, this paradise recently got a wide media exposure because of its majestic 14km white beach stretch. It can be reached directly via its recently inaugurated San Vicente Airport (SVA) and alternately via land transfers from Puerto Princessa, Palawan.

The festival ran from April 27-May 1 of this year as guest were treated to several activities such as visual exhibit from Noah’s Art, Kaingud Crafts and tribal sounds from the Kawangis group. The festival was also visited by the Emerging band IV of Spades which added social media presence.

The winner for Short film category went to Siyudad sa Bulawan (City of Gold), a film by Jarell Mahinay Serencio. The film was awarded with a special trophy made by mixed media artist Nuno Finez and Php50,000 sponsored Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD)

The film festival jurors were composed of known film critics, Erwin Romulo, Aiza Suegera, Sigrid Bernardo & Evelyn Vargas. Program headed by Direk Jun Sabayton. The event was also attended by known film makers, Direk Lau Fajardo, Direk Laurice Guillen, and Direk Mike Sandejas.

A bigger and brighter PIFF 2019 is anticipaded as more International entries are expected to come in!

By Inspire PH Team