After months of anticipation, the Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival is officially back for its 7th edition. The festival is all about celebrating “Sine Lokal, Pang-International,” and this year’s lineup looks absolutely incredible. I was at the press conference at Gateway Cinema, and the energy was electric!

According to Sinag Maynila founder Wilson Tieng, they had a record-breaking number of entries this year, especially from students all over the country. It’s a testament to the thriving filmmaking community we have here.

The Feature Films You Can’t Miss

This year’s festival is headlined by five incredible feature films. Grab a pen, because you’ll want to add these to your must-watch list:

• Candé: Starring JC Santos and Sunshine Teodoro, this Ilonggo film follows a chef who returns home and confronts his past. Get ready for some deep emotions and a whole lot of heart.

• Jeongbu: If you love a good thriller, this one’s for you. Directed by Topel Lee, this horror film stars Aljur Abrenica and Ritz Azul. The plot, about an evil entity trying to change a wife’s personality, sounds chilling!

• Madawag Ang Landas Patungong Pag-Asa (The Teacher): Award-winning director Joel Lamangan brings us this powerful film starring Rita Daniela and Jak Roberto. It’s a story about a teacher’s struggle to get children back in school, and I’m already expecting a tearjerker.

• Selda Tres (Cell Number Three): With a cast that includes JM De Guzman, Carla Abellana, and Cesar Montano, this film is about a law office messenger who helps his former cellmates. It sounds like a gripping story of redemption and justice.

• Altar Boy: This Canadian-Filipino film from director Serville Poblete is a coming-of-age story about a teenager caught between his desire for independence and his deeply religious mother. It’s a relatable story that’s sure to resonate with a lot of us.

Beyond the main features, Sinag Maynila has a packed lineup of amazing documentaries and short films. With so much talent on display, you’ll be inspired by every single story.

The Sinag Maynila Film Festival will run from September 24 to 30 at select cinemas, including Gateway, Robinsons Manila, SM Mall of Asia, and SM Fairview. Tickets are only ₱250! This is your chance to support local artists and watch some of the best films our country has to offer.

Which film are you most excited to see? Let me know in the comments!