Young films

A short film about a young boy torn between focusing on his present (as a factory worker) and building his future (by going back to school) was named best picture in recently held Cineiskool Short Film Lab and Festival.

“Lapis Akong Naghihintay ng Pantasa” by Gerald Pesigan won over 9 other entries in the fest jointly presented by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Pesigan brought home the top prize of 50 thousand pesos and a trophy.

The first-ever Cineiskool Festival, one of many pet projects by FDCP Chair Liza Diño, was held at Gateway Cineplex in Cubao from June 22 to 25.

The winners are:

Best Director: Mary Franz Salazar, “A Million Worth Degree.”

Jury’s Choice: “Koro Kan Sadlang,” Xavier Axl Roncesvalles.

Best Screenplay and Chairman’s Award: “Higayon,” John Paul Corton.

Special Mention: “Liwanag” by David Mark Oray and “Jeremiah 29:11” by Jenny Mae Limama

The Cineiskool finalists received a consolation prize of 5,000 pesos each.

The 10 finalists from all over the country received a total of R125,000 worth of grant to produce their short films. They also underwent intensive film labs under renowned filmmakers.