DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Filipino entrepreneur and film producer Aquino Plotado clinched the Best Film Producer award at the 12th Emirates Film Festival on July 26, 2026, at the New Covent Garden Theatre inside Mall of the Emirates. The honor adds another international feather to his cap and underscores the rising presence of Filipino talent in global cinema.
A Story That Echoes Across Borders
Plotado earned the award for producing the short film As the Call, So the Echo. The project had already made waves at the previous edition of the same festival, where lead actor Enzo Pineda won Best Actor and writer-director Rusty Palacio Guarin took home Best Director. The consecutive recognition highlights the film’s enduring quality and the team’s consistent excellence.
The win cements Plotado’s reputation as a creative force who bridges business acumen with artistic vision. He is also a prominent figure in the UAE’s real estate sector, having received the Billion Dirhams Deal Maker Award at the Emirates Real Estate Awards in 2025. His dual success in property and film demonstrates the power of cross-industry passion.
Filipino Cinema Sweeps Major Honors
The festival was a triumphant night for Philippine cinema. Veteran actor-director Epy Quizon claimed both Best Film and Best Director for his short film Bukal, which has now collected nearly 100 international awards. Quizon described the Emirates Film Festival as the final stop for Bukal, capping a remarkable global journey.
Other Filipino winners included Francis Gacer, whose script for Tilamsik sa Dakilang Apoy earned Best Screenplay, and Ritchie Barrios, who won Best Supporting Actor for Yung Tayo Na Hindi Naging Tayo. Jessica Miranda took Best Supporting Actress for Batingaw. The sweep of multiple categories showcased the depth of Filipino storytelling talent.
Celebrating a Global Platform
The ceremony unfolded in a festive atmosphere at one of Dubai’s premier lifestyle destinations. The Emirates Film Festival has grown into a significant platform for indie filmmakers, attracting entries from across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Founder and CEO Ron Awa expressed his ambition to expand the festival further, making Dubai a permanent hub for international cinema and cultural exchange.
Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver attended the event and personally congratulated Plotado. The ambassador noted that Plotado’s achievement reflects the excellence that Filipinos bring to every field, whether in business or the arts. Plotado attended the ceremony with his son Kaden Hamdan Plotado, making the victory a family celebration.
An Inspiration for OFWs and Dreamers
Plotado’s journey from real estate leader to award-winning film producer inspires many overseas Filipino workers who dream of pursuing creative passions alongside professional careers. He has shown that with determination and cross-industry collaboration, Filipinos can shine on the global stage. His production company, Aquino Plotado Film International, continues to support independent Filipino films that resonate with international audiences.
The win also reinforces the strong cultural ties between the Philippines and the UAE, which hosts a large Filipino community. Events like the Emirates Film Festival provide a platform for Filipino artists to gain recognition and connect with a diverse audience. Plotado’s success story is a testament to the talent and resilience of Filipinos abroad.
