Mobile film wins at Montañosa film fest, spotlight shines on Filipino storytellers

In Baguio City, the Montañosa Film Festival (MFF) wrapped up its 5th edition, proving once again that compelling narratives resonate deeply, regardless of production budget. This year’s festival culminated in a heartwarming victory for a film shot entirely on a mobile phone, demonstrating that the essence of filmmaking lies in powerful storytelling.

Ang Gadya Sang Suba (The Elephant of the River), directed by Daniel Dela Cruz, clinched the coveted Best Film award at the Panagdadayaw Awards Night held at the Baguio Country Club. Dela Cruz’s acceptance speech resonated with the audience, as he emphasized that the most valuable filmmaking tool isn't the latest technology, but rather a story told with heart.

The festival, committed to making filmmaking accessible, also awarded Ang Gadya Sang Suba with Gold in the Mobile Category. Ashley Manugas's Kataw secured Silver, and Aveguel Sinangote's Handom sa Natugbong Nga Yuta (Memories of the Collapsed Land) took home Bronze, further highlighting the creativity flourishing within mobile filmmaking.

For five years, MFF has been a vital platform for Filipino filmmakers, particularly those operating outside the mainstream. It champions stories deeply rooted in Filipino culture and everyday realities. Alexandra Brizuela's Mama earned Gold in the Documentary category, followed by Jan Darryl Villafuerte’s Daíng (Woes) with Silver, and Jhayzen Parañal's Woven Dreams with Bronze.

Mark Moneda’s Open Time received the Gold Award in the Narrative category, while Miguel Potestades’ Ang Huling Liham (The Last Letter) was awarded Bronze. Beyond the main categories, MFF celebrated cinematic artistry and cultural resonance through special awards.

Juvy Ann Clarito’s Sa Ilalim sa Balabal sa Alitaptap (Beneath the Firefly Veil) received The Independent Spirit Award, Joaquin Perocillo’s Cinebuano won the World Building Award, and Francis A. Dumalig’s Dakit (Boat) was honored with the Best Emerging Cinema Award. The prestigious Kidlat Kapwa Awards, presented by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, recognized films embodying indigenous values and storytelling, with accolades given to Kyle Erika Saycon, Danica Sy, Jhayzen Parañal, and Patrick Nicolas Yacob for their respective works.

In the Pilik Ubbing (Young Eyes) category, dedicated to young and first-time filmmakers, Daniel Dela Cruz again took Gold for Ang Gadya Sang Suba. JP Corton’s Nanlumos Akong Papa sa Sabaw won Silver, and Zeus Batondo’s Arapaap received Bronze. Jermaine Tulbo’s Kita Mo ’To? was recognized with the Sine Patok Award for being the most entertaining film.

This year’s festival broadened its reach with the Cinema Open program, welcoming submissions of finished films from across the Philippines, attracting finalists from diverse regions including Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao. MFF also introduced an Experimental Film Category, showcasing innovative works and further expanding the boundaries of Filipino cinema.

Marie Venus Tan, Creative Baguio City Council chairperson, underscored the significance of supporting Filipino filmmakers, especially within the independent and regional spheres. She highlighted MFF as an annual celebration of Filipino artistry and Cordilleran identity. The Montañosa Film Festival continues to advocate for film tourism in the Cordillera Region and reinforces Baguio City’s position as a UNESCO Creative City, championing stories that matter, regardless of their origin or mode of creation.