Empowering Local Filmmakers With Grants
BACOLOD - Nine talented local filmmakers have been selected to receive production grants worth PHP 100,000 each for the upcoming 3rd Bacolod Film Festival. Scheduled to run from November 27 to 29, 2026, the festival carries the meaningful theme "Pag-angot: Celebrating Heritage, Shaping Our Future." The financial assistance, distributed across two tranches, is paired with dedicated workshops and script mentoring sessions to guide directors throughout production. Short films ranging from fifteen to twenty minutes in length must incorporate three to five distinct local heritage markers, traditions, or historical landmarks.
Highlighting City Roots And Culture
Festival Director Tanya Lopez emphasized the importance of visually capturing Bacolod's evolving cultural landscape as the urban environment rapidly transforms. Mayor Greg Gasataya reaffirmed the local administration's unwavering support for the creative sector through milestones like City Ordinance 1061 and the G-Hive creative hub. A distinguished evaluation panel reviewed submissions and selected nine outstanding entries exploring folklore, family ties, and community identity. Winning projects include works by Rolf Dubouzet Baynosa, Farleen John Casidsid, Dranreb Cimatu, Renzo Grijaldo, Jaden Mijares, Mai Montelibano, Kurt Soberano, Reginald Amador Zack Verzosa, and Pamela Reinee Viedor.
Fostering Emerging Regional Talent
Student filmmakers participating in the grant program noted that this platform provides crucial industry experience for emerging creators from Negros Occidental. By showcasing authentic stories rooted in local heritage, the festival strengthens community pride and preserves regional history for future generations. The administration's continuous investments in local arts ensure that Bacolod remains a thriving hub for creative expression and independent cinema. Such initiatives successfully elevate regional filmmakers onto broader national and cultural stages.
