How Mowelfund sparks young Filipino filmmakers’ journey

The Mowelfund Film Institute (MFI) has long been a foundational pillar in Philippine cinema, consistently nurturing and educating individuals passionate about storytelling through film. For decades, this esteemed organization has been instrumental in shaping the industry's landscape, fostering a new generation of talent poised to leave their mark.

At the heart of Mowelfund's commitment to its legacy is the Intensive Filmmaking Workshop, a biennial program that stands as a beacon for aspiring filmmakers. Under the experienced leadership of veteran actor and MFI president Res Cortez, the workshop offers a robust curriculum designed to equip students with both traditional craft and modern techniques.

Cortez is joined by an impressive team of mentors, including Paolo Villaluna, director general of the Film Academy of the Philippines; Jim Baltazar, managing director of CMB Films; director and MFI alumnus Mel Bacani; and MFI director Ricky Orellana. This blend of seasoned professionals ensures a comprehensive and insightful learning experience.

Director Bacani, an MFI graduate himself, emphasizes a reciprocal learning environment. He notes that while they impart MFI's teachings, the rapidly evolving technology means they also learn from their more digitally-savvy students, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas. Villaluna adds that while technology has democratized filmmaking, making it easier for anyone to create, it also places a greater responsibility on creators to carefully consider the message their films convey, affirming that the idea of people gathering to watch stories will never fade.

Despite the accessibility offered by modern tools, Orellana stresses the timeless importance of mastering the craft itself. He firmly believes the future of the industry rests with young filmmakers, underscoring Mowelfund's full support for their innovative and creative minds, which are expected to produce quality movies. Furthermore, CMB Film Services, led by Jim Baltazar, actively backs Mowelfund by providing essential, up-to-date film equipment, understanding the critical needs of emerging artists.

This year, Mowelfund proudly introduces five promising film industry hopefuls selected for the Intensive Filmmaking Workshop: Mio Dagsaan, Jay Angeles, Angela Jed Silvestre, Patrick Pangan, and Raymart Avellaneda. These talents are embarking on a six-month immersive journey, which will culminate in the creation of their own cinematic masterpieces later this year.

The mentors are already impressed by the enthusiasm and talent of the new batch. Bacani shares, "Their enthusiasm is one of a kind. It’s overwhelming to see them with such energy and with so much to give. They’re all very talented." He adds that while obstacles are inevitable, Mowelfund is dedicated to ensuring these filmmakers are 100% prepared to "spread their wings," expressing genuine surprise at the depth and originality of their ideas.

Meet the diverse voices of this cohort: Mio Dagsaan, a visual communication graduate from UP Diliman, brings experience in graphic design and classic film restoration, feeling motivated by MFI's esteemed alumni and the productive pressure to deliver. Jay Angeles, the oldest in the group, transitioned from the corporate world, driven by a childhood love for VHS movies that he now seeks to express through his own filmmaking. Angela Jed Silvestre, the sole female in this batch, is a veteran editor, creative producer, and director, inspired by Maya Angelou's quote about untold stories and hoping her work will resonate widely.

Patrick Pangan, a multi-talented director, editor, and writer from Pampanga, has already seen some of his works screened internationally, having developed his craft from a high school photography interest and curiosity about behind-the-scenes processes. Raymart Avellaneda, a communications graduate with experience as a junior creative producer at Studio Viva, started writing at age seven, turning his knack for daydreaming into character-driven narratives. He admits to occasional insecurity but values the collaborative spirit of the group, which fosters positive outcomes through good communication.

As their workshop draws to a close, each filmmaker is set to unveil a compelling short film. Silvestre's *Pinagkaisahan* will explore the struggles of three women against an oppressive system, fighting for care, dignity, and recognition. Pangan's *The Cat is a Wide-Eyed Night* promises a surreal journey of two estranged brothers where reality dissolves. Avellaneda’s *Marahan* delves into a young man's return to his provincial home after a decade, rediscovering his past to embrace his future dreams. Dagsaan's *Visual Record* follows a photographer on a bicycle ride to a petroglyphs site, leading to an unexpected encounter with a curious student. Finally, Angeles’s *Baybayin* navigates a grieving man's memories, drifting through love and regret as he struggles to reconcile shared joys with persistent sorrows.

Angela Jed Silvestre perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this new wave of filmmakers: "I believe in cinema’s ability to help and heal people, especially after this workshop." She concludes with a powerful reminder that "Artificial Intelligence cannot replicate human experience, and that is where we get inspiration from," affirming the deeply human core of their artistic endeavors and the enduring power of storytelling in Filipino cinema.