By: Mdpn. Francis Baldemor
Photo Courtesy of Sugidanon Production
The 30th Annual International Filipino Cine Festival has announced Miag-ao Sugidanon Production's "Urimos" as one of the 19 short film finalists last October 13.
This creation by Joseph Cartago Jr., an alumna of this university (JBLFMU-Arevalo), vied for the tiered citation in the Festival of Media and Cinema, International's (FACINE) various categories including Gold, Silver, Particularly Noteworthy — out of 50 entries from the Philippines, the United States, Australia, and Europe — all available for viewing on October 18-22, 2023, on FACINE's official YouTube channel.
Formerly awarded as Best Film of First Miagao Film Festival, the short film follows the journey of a desperate mother as she blames herself for the death of her young daughter. In her grief, she then finds solace with the old beliefs of resurrection — the Prayer for the Dead.
As a trailblazer in the International Competition with renowned Filipino actors, actresses and filmmakers —Urimos is eligible for Best Short Film category, as selected by a separate panel of three jury members, and the Viewer's Choice Award which will be chosen by online viewers to a participating online entry.
Notably, FACINE30 has a distinction for being the longest-running festival of Filipino films in the diaspora with a commitment to further develop and promote the Filipino-American media arts and advance the interests of cinemas from the Philippines.
“Since our humble beginnings, we have showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines and provided a platform for talented filmmakers to share their stories with San Francisco and the world.”
In its 30th year, FACINE has become an annual celebration of our vibrant culture, connecting the Filipino diaspora with their homeland and igniting a sense of pride and belonging.
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