The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival has officially unveiled the lineup of films from emerging and established Filipino filmmakers competing in its 22nd edition.
Announced on Wednesday, July 8, this year’s film festival will feature nine full-length films and 10 short films when Cinemalaya returns from August 6 to 16. Screenings will be held at Red Carpet Cinemas in Shangri-La Plaza, as well as select Ayala Malls Cinemas and Gateway Cineplex.
Carrying the theme “Cinemalaya 22: Reel Reflections,” this year’s festival celebrates films that “emerge from reflection—bringing forth voices, perspectives, and experiences that deepen our understanding of ourselves and one another.”
The full-length competition stars a lineup of acclaimed actors tackling socially relevant and emotionally driven stories.
Among the entries is stars Pokwang in “2 Valid IDs” a story that raises questions about the challenges of obtaining government identification in a bureaucratic system. Meanwhile, Iza Calzado and Ruru Madrid headline “Hand of God,” a sports drama set in Basilan.
Also joining the competition is “Mag-iina,” led by real-life mother and daughter Jackie Lou Blanco and Janine Gutierrez. The family drama explores grief, memory, and unraveling relationships as a family commemorates the 40th death anniversary of a loved one.
The festival’s remaining entries span various genres, including psychological drama, mystery, and coming-of-age narratives, highlighting the broad range and diversity of contemporary Philippine independent cinema.
The nine official full-length entries are:
- “2 Valid IDs” by Ma-an Asuncion-Dagñalan and Abet Pagdagdagan Raz
- “A.ni.mál” by Dustin Celestino
- “Ganggang” by JL Burgos
- “Kaka sa Yawan” by Alpha Habon
- “Hand of God” by Mark Duane Angos
- “Mag-iina” by Giancarlo Abrahan and Guelan Varela-Luarca
- “Status: Rejected” by Vahn Leinard Pascual
- “Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam” by David Corpuz
- “Tirik” by May-i Guia Padilla
Competing in the short film category are:
- “Elenita Elena Elaine” by Gabriela Serrano
- “Honey, My Love, So Sweet” by JT Trinidad
- “Hoy, Hoy, Ingat” by Norvin delos Santos
- “Kung Paano Kakalas” by Joseph Vitali
- “Para-paraan” by Mae Chan Li
- “Runo!” by Lysa Catolico and Jazmine Pateña
- “Silkscreen” by Rey Anthony Villaverde
- “Sorbetes” by Jennissie Gilbuena
- “The Keeper” by Nolan Rae Fabular and TRNZ
- “The River Flows in Different Places” by Lot-Lot Hermosura
