Stories about nature, family, abuse, and people whose struggles often go unheard took center stage at the 6th Hundred Islands Film Festival (HIFF), as emerging filmmakers earned top honors for their powerful short films.
The awards night, held Saturday, Sept. 12, in Calasiao, Pangasinan, marked the culmination of the HIFF Film Lab, an initiative of the Alaminos City Government that helps young storytellers develop their filmmaking skills and turn community experiences into meaningful films.
A Story of Family and Nature Wins Best Film
Taking the Best Film award was “Bales ti Ina a Nakaparsuaan,” created by Tjida Jaemicha Ramos and Francis June Bayangos.
The film follows Romeo, a father struggling to provide for his child on a remote island. In an attempt to make ends meet, he takes coral from the sea. When his child becomes seriously ill, Romeo seeks the help of an albularyo and learns that he must return what he took from the sea and seek forgiveness.
His journey takes him to Halaan Island, where he searches for the mysterious taklobo, or giant clam, believed to have healing powers.
Films Tackle Difficult Social Realities
“Out of Frame,” directed by Veann Rein Francisco, won Second Best Film. It follows Lina, a photojournalist who uses her camera to expose the sexual abuse of students by teachers at an all-girls school.
Meanwhile, “Talinghaga,” directed by Jezreel Simon Necesito, was named Third Best Film. It tells the story of a musician who uses his music to give voice to people whose struggles are often overlooked.
Building the Next Generation of Filmmakers
Now on its sixth year, the HIFF Film Lab provides training in screenwriting, cinematography, acting, editing, and directing under experienced filmmakers and industry professionals.
This year's Main Competing Category featured five finalists whose stories were developed through the Film Lab Workshop, with resident mentors including directors Zig Dulay, Carlo Catu, Carlo Obispo, Tim Rone Villanueva, Victor Villanueva, Jerome Dulin, Sef Arcegono, and Ian Christopher Cruz.
The Open Category featured 10 finalists from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, bringing diverse perspectives and filmmaking styles to Alaminos.
The HIFF was institutionalized through City Ordinance No. 2025-02, ensuring its continued staging and creating more opportunities for filmmakers to sharpen their craft and tell stories that matter.
