Filmmaker-prof named Bacolod filmfest director

Wazzup Pilipinas!

An award-winning filmmaker and longtime educator has been recently appointed by the Bacolod City Government as director of its film festival, set to be held this September in select cinemas in the city.

The Bacolod Film Festival Council (BFFC), chaired by Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez with Councilor Em L. Ang as co-chairperson, has designated Seymour B. Sanchez as filmfest director, as per Section 7 of City Ordinance 1061-2024.

Sanchez was recommended by legal consultant and film producer Atty. Josabeth “Joji” V. Alonso to the BFFC as “the best person to oversee and manage the festival.”

C.O. 1061-2024, also known as the Bacolod Film Festival Ordinance, is authored by Councilor Ang, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Committee on History, Culture and Arts, with councilors Cindy Rojas and Celia Flor as co-authors.

The Bacolod Film Festival Ordinance also provides for ten (10) filmmakers, whether producers, directors, or writers, who are bona fide residents of Bacolod City, to be given production grants worth 300,000 pesos each. Councilor Ang clarified the filmmakers do not need to shoot their entire film in the city.

Sanchez signed the memorandum of agreement with the BFFC at the office of Councilor Ang last May 3. The SP, with Vice Mayor El Cid M. Familiaran as presiding officer, has confirmed the appointment of Sanchez during its 96th Regular Session on the same day.

Apart from being an educator, who is now on his 20th year of teaching, Sanchez also served as head of publicity and promotions of the Cinemanila International Film Festival from 2004 to 2007, under the late filmmaker Amable “Direk Tikoy” Aguiluz VI, and filmfest director of the One La Salle Film Festival in 2018, under the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde film department headed by Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) chairperson and CEO Jose “Direk Joey” Reyes.

Sanchez has also worked as FDCP’s Technical Consultant for Academic Linkages or education consultant, judge and one-time jury chair of the Indie-Siyensya Science Filmmaking Competition organized by the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute, mentor-judge of the SINEliksik Bulacan DocuFest, jury and selection committee member of the Manila Broadcasting Company Short Film Festival and Sinepiyu, jury of Sine Kabataan, CineMascian, Kingwagisnan Film Festival, and CineMapúa, and SELCOM member of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, Cinestudyante and Quisumbing-Escandor Film Festival for Health. He has also been a judge and speaker in other competitions, including the National Schools Press Conference, National Training of Trainers on Campus Journalism, Planting Seeds Workshops on Filmmaking, and SanayGuro Trainors’ Training.

His short film “Caretaker” won second prize in the short fiction category of the sixth CAM International Festival for Short Films in Cairo, Egypt, the Golden Philippine Eagle award and Best Actor for Rolando Inocencio in the third Singkuwento International Film Festival, and the Audience Choice Award in the Active Vista International Human Rights Film Festival. He was given the Film Ambassador Award by the FDCP for his “creativity and the global achievement of the film.” He also received the Maningning Outstanding Direction for the same film in the CineSB Film Festival: Special Edition. A shorter version of the film entitled “Katiwala” won the People’s Choice Award in the 2018 Freedom Mov_E Film Festival.

His first short film “Lababo” (Kitchen Sink) topped the 2007 Viva-Pinoy Box Office Digitales. His other film “Pagbugtaw” (Waking Up) bagged second place in the First Pambujan Pelikula Para sa Publiko National Short Film Festival and Competition. Another film “Shorts” won third prize in the Viva-PBO Digitales 2. His documentary “Sinulog for Beginners” placed second in the 2006 Sinulog Video Documentary Competition. Another documentary “Maria Leonor” was cited for its screenplay in the 3rd Dreamanila International Film Festival. His second full-length screenplay “Hiwaga” (Mystery), co-written with Christian Lacuesta, bagged the grand prize in the 59th Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature.

Sanchez is one of the fellows of the 17th Lopez Jaena Community Journalism Workshop of the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication, 21st Iligan National Writers Workshop of the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, and 9th Palihang Rogelio Sicat of the UP Departamento ng Filipino at Panitikan ng Pilipinas. He is also a graduate of the 3rd Produire au Sud workshop at the 6th World Film Festival of Bangkok, 14th Ricky Lee scriptwriting workshop, first Brillante Mendoza directing class, and the first Active Vista film and media for human rights advocacy workshop.

Unauthorised Banksy art to run soon at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Here's a glimpse of Banksy Universe Manila 2024, which will be open to the public starting May 14 at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. 

The immersive experience traces the works of the famously anonymous street artist Banksy in Bristol, London, Los Angeles, and New York City. 

While it is not authorized by Banksy, the exhibit aims to bring people closer to his art, which is known for tackling social and political issues. 

Tuloy pa rin pala to?

Internet, do your thing. Banksy’s legal team may be interested.

"the exhibit aims to bring people closer to his art," But why would you do that? Did Banksy ask you to do that? Banksy creates art not to be close to his art but rather to issues such as taking things without the permission of the owner.

Nothing says "bringing people closer to art (and art that's supposedly known for tackling social and political issues, at that)" better than *checks notes* a 550 peso entrance fee.

lmao bring people closer to banksy's art pero charge an entrance fee to an unauthorized, unsanctioned show.

The most un-Banksy thing you can do is to curate and put Banksy art in an elitist exhibit for 550 a pop.

The multiple disconnects with banksy and his art hahaha

This event, the venue, the people behind this awful charade is the opposite of everything Banksy

Ang weirddddd talaga !!!

Being exactly what the artist is fighting against.

Unabashedly displaying it, too.

"While it is not authorized by Banksy," THIS ALONE should discourage you from seeing this FAKERY.

"We're displaying some artist work without his permission while making money from this unethical gig of ours"

Pera pera Lang hahahahaha

Unauthorised by Bansky but the Metropolitan Museum of Manila boasts its objective is to bring people closer to Bansky's art FOR A FEE.

Banksy is known for his social realist, social satire, anti-establishment, anti-commercialism, anti-capitalist street art.

Banksy’s reps have said they have nothing to do with this exhibition. But it does not mean illegal. Most museums all over the world are showing works without permission from artists.

If you really want to bring people closer to art, remove the entrance fee. Otherwise, we’ll just browse the Internet. 

Bawal ang graffiti sa bgc pero pag banksy pwede and the best part? hindi ito authorized. It's effin confusing!

If Banksy were dead, he would be rolling in his grave.

Only the lame and tame socio-political topics .  A people's art is more subversive than that, BGC. It should move people to critical thinking about their situation.  Another capitalist move appropriating radical art to gain profit from it .

How could a respectable institution like the MET promote and create an unauthorize exhibit?  Furthermore, why promote Bansky in the first place?  They want the be relevant and attract a young market?

Bansky HATES his artwork being used or sold at all. That’s why he does it on public places since no one gets to own it, but people like the metropolitan museum of manila takes advantage of this by asking for an entrance fee. Wtf!!!

So you PAY to view a PIRATED COPY of Banksy’s work? 

Meh. Reminds me of an elite who freely destroyed a wall to procure(steal) Banksy's art just to sell it for millions.

Did you forget about the Banksy auction where he tried to destroy his own artwork? He hates it.

This is clear plagiarism, and I hope someone gets the full extent of the law.

Come to my house on May 14 in North Caloocan.

I will recreate Banksy’s works on my walls. Im not authorized but I plan to bring you closer to Banksy’s art.

Only 50 Pesos Entrance fee. It comes with Beer and Barbecue. 

This is what it is. Imagine major publications promoting this instead of calling out this unauthorized money grab.

Excited for the people who will come to this exhibit not knowing who "Bangs-Ki" is, at magpipichur-pichur lang for the 'gram, ma-scratch lang ang FOMO itch.

The Philippines for Filipinos: How to Have a Great Trip Without Spending a Fortune on It

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Season of vacations is coming. And even people who do not have regular earnings can get money with the help of a loan app for unemployed people and have a journey through the Philippines.

Don't miss out on the amazing adventures it has waiting for you. While international travel is picking up again, domestic tourism has always been a powerhouse. In 2021, Filipinos themselves went on over 37 million local trips. Travelling around the archipelago isn't just fun, it's a way to support your kababayans who rely on tourism for their livelihood. If you are low financially but you want to go out on an adenture, you can opt in for a loan app for unemployed people for financial support. Are you ready to roam the Philippines without breaking the bank? Here are some tips:

1. Be a Booking Ninja

Plane tickets can devour a big chunk of your travel budget, but don't despair! Airlines like Cebu Pacific and AirAsia frequently have seat sales throughout the year. Think of these deals as your travel anchor – booking them first and then planning your trip around them will ensure you get the most bang for your buck. With a little patience and flexibility, you can snag a roundtrip ticket to Cebu for less than P2,000 during a sale. 

This frees up more funds for other exciting experiences during your trip, like indulging in delicious local cuisine, trying out thrilling water activities, or exploring hidden gems off the beaten path.

2. Take the Scenic Route (and Save Big)

Did you know you can practically travel anywhere in the Philippines by bus…and boat?

The RORO (Roll-On/Roll-Off) system lets you experience the best of both worlds: land and sea travel in one! It's a slower option than flying, but it's significantly cheaper. Plus, you get to enjoy the beautiful ocean views as the salty breeze washes over you.

Imagine watching the sunrise paint the sky with vibrant colors while you sip on a cup of local coffee – that's an experience you won't get stuck in a cramped airplane seat!

Stretch out your legs and take a stroll around the ferry deck. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the sights – you might even spot some playful dolphins or majestic whales gliding alongside the vessel. If you're feeling peckish, skip the overpriced ferry food and try buying local delicacies from vendors at the ferry terminal. They're usually delicious and budget-friendly, and you get to support local businesses at the same time. The RORO journey is a chance to unwind, chat with fellow passengers (you might make some new friends!), and truly immerse yourself in the Filipino travel experience.

3. Embrace Local Travel Groups:

Don't go it alone! Facebook groups are a treasure trove for Filipino adventurers.

Communities organized by seasoned explorers plan trips to all corners of the Philippines, from the majestic rice terraces of Banaue to the pristine beaches of Palawan. Joining a group trip allows you to split communal costs like boat rides, guides, and even food, making your adventure significantly cheaper. Some groups even provide tents, cooking equipment, and experienced guides to ensure a smooth and safe trip. But the best perk? You'll get to meet new travel buddies who share your passion for exploring the Philippines. Check out "Gala Outdoors PH" and "Feel Good Traveler" on Facebook for a glimpse into the exciting world of Filipino travel groups.

4. Hostels and Guesthouses:

Luxury hotels are tempting, but for budget-conscious Filipinos, hostels and guesthouses are the perfect alternative. These backpacker havens are ideal for socializing with fellow travelers from all over the world, swapping travel stories and recommendations. Many hostels also organize fun activities and events, from group hikes and beach clean-ups to cooking classes and local festivals. This is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and get the most out of your Philippine adventure. Hostels and guesthouses are also significantly cheaper than hotels, especially in popular tourist destinations. While top tourist spots like Boracay and El Nido might have sky-high hotel prices, there are always affordable and well-rated hostels waiting to be discovered. Do your research and book in advance, especially during peak season, to score the best deals. If you run out of funds, seek help from loan app for unemployed people to get sorted quickly. You can find an appropriate loan on AllTheBestLoans.com. 

5. Befriend the Locals:

Getting to know locals is a travel game-changer. Not only can they help you save money on everything from accommodation and transportation to meals and activities, but they can also show you a side of the Philippines that most tourists never see. Locals can guide you to charming, family-run guesthouses tucked away on quiet streets, or direct you to the local market where you can find the freshest ingredients at a fraction of the price. They'll introduce you to the best local eateries, where you can savor delicious Filipino dishes at hole-in-the-wall joints or try their hand at cooking a traditional meal in a local kitchen. Beyond the tourist hotspots, locals can recommend hidden waterfalls, secluded beaches, and scenic hiking trails that haven't been overrun by crowds. They can even invite you to local festivals and celebrations, giving you a glimpse into authentic Filipino culture and traditions. Making friends with locals is the ultimate way to experience the Philippines like a true insider.

Pro-Tip: Offer to return the favor! If your local host ever decides to visit your hometown, show them around like they showed you theirs. This fosters goodwill and creates a lasting connection. You can even turn it into a small business – many Filipinos offer walking tours and food adventures in their cities to earn extra income, as Mikka Montero assumes.

Destination Cost of a trip

To and from Cebu P1,500 - P2,000

From Cubao to Iloilo or Puerto Galera or

other destinations in Philippines

P1,000 - P2,000

Calaguas P4,000

Aurora P4,000

Sagada P4,000

Caramoan P4,000

Summary

The Philippines has so much to offer Filipinos, and you don't need to break the bank to experience it! This article provides budget-friendly travel hacks to help you explore the archipelago.

Here are some key takeaways: 

● Planning ahead is key! Booking flights during sales and even wee hours of the morning can lead to significant savings. ● Consider alternative transportation options. RORO buses provide a scenic and affordable way to travel between islands. 

● Traveling with a group can split costs and open doors to new experiences. Social media groups often organize trips with shared expenses. 

● Hostels and guesthouses offer budget-friendly accommodations, perfect for those prioritizing adventure over luxury. 

● Befriending locals unlocks hidden gems and cheaper experiences. They can guide you to affordable eats and unique destinations.

So pack your bags, embrace the Filipino hospitality, and explore the beauty of your home country for a price that won't break the bank!