‘A committee of Filipino film industry experts, approved by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, selected “Magellan” from seven strong contenders based on its aesthetic and technical excellence’
The Film Academy of the Philippines has chosen Lav Diaz’s “Magellan” as the country’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards.
A committee of Filipino film industry experts, approved by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, selected “Magellan” from seven strong contenders based on its aesthetic and technical excellence, embodiment of Filipino values and culture, international appeal and the producer’s capability to mount an extensive campaign for Oscars shortlisting and nomination.
Undersecretary Paolo Villaluna, director-general of the Film Academy, congratulated director Lav Diaz, producer Paul Soriano and the entire cast and crew, stating that the academy will work closely with them to navigate the Oscars campaign.
“Magellan” tells the story of 16th-century Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan and a Filipino captured by slave traders, offering an uncompromising perspective on history. The film features Gael García Bernal and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, receiving a five-minute standing ovation.
Critics have praised “Magellan” for its powerful and poetic portrayal of colonialism. Variety described it as “stunningly mounted, politically rigorous work,” while The Hollywood Reporter called it “exquisitely crafted.” IndieWire praised the film’s “hypnotizing historical and spiritual epic” narrative. With its international marketing handled by key US awards agencies, “Magellan” will screen at the Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival next month.
Lav Diaz, known for his immersive and contemplative filmmaking style, has earned global acclaim for his unflinching explorations of Philippine history and sociopolitical realities. His films, such as “Evolution of a Filipino Family” and “The Woman Who Left,” have won numerous awards, including the Golden Leopard, Silver Bear and Golden Lion.
The Philippine government, through the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), is providing support for “Magellan” in its Oscars campaign. Here are some ways they’re contributing: Financial support — the FDCP has granted “Magellan” one million pesos through the government-led Oscars Assistance Program to aid in its campaign. Strategic planning — the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) will strategize and find additional support for the film, with Director General Paolo Villaluna overseeing the process. Government assistance — the national government will also provide support, although the specifics are still being finalized.
“Magellan” has been acquired for distribution by Luxbox Films and Janus Films in North America.
To increase its chances of getting noticed, “Magellan” will be screened in Philippine theaters on September 10, and its producers plan to mount an extensive campaign for the Oscars. Gael García Bernal, the film’s star, is also expected to participate in promotional activities.
Some potential strategies for further support include international screenings. “Magellan” will screen at the Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival, which can help generate buzz and attract Academy voters. Awards campaign involves the film’s producers and the FAP working together to promote “Magellan” to Academy voters, leveraging the film’s critical acclaim and cultural significance. Publicity and promotion will see the film’s cast and crew, including Lav Diaz and Gael García Bernal, participating in interviews, talk shows, and other promotional activities to raise awareness and generate interest in the film.
The announcement of “Magellan” as the Philippine Oscar entry marked a fitting start to the Philippine Film Industry Month, celebrated at the Red Carpet Cinema, Shangri-La Plaza. As the industry gathers to commemorate this milestone, let’s rally together and participate in the various activities lined up for the month. May this collective effort not only showcase our rich cinematic heritage but also revitalize the energy and strength of the Philippine movie industry.
With “Magellan” as our ambassador to the Oscars, we look forward to a promising year ahead, hoping that our film will bring home a well-deserved recognition and inspire a new wave of storytelling excellence.
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As Radyo Katipunan marks its 7th anniversary, its journey from a small campus station to a trusted voice in national discourse is being recognized and celebrated by the university and the wider Jesuit community.
Ateneo de Manila president Bobby Yap acknowledges RK’s achievements and said, “You have become a constant companion of Ateneans far and wide, helping them connect to their alma mater and Jesuit communities. You have helped amplify the voices of the Filipinos helping us reach and engage with more people. We thank you for you have become a relevant partner in fulfilling the Jesuit mission.”
Fr. Nono Alfonso, the big boss of the Jesuit Communication and the one who led RK to where it is now, shared, “Our dream is to provide an alternative media platform and space for active citizen engagement. We hope that through RK, the Ateneo community would be more immersed in the life of the nation, fulfilling its mission of becoming men and women for others. Especially in these critical times in the history of the country.”
As part of its 7th anniversary celebration, there will be a launch activity in RK today and a special media ethics forum tomorrow at 3 p.m. with the most respected journalists in the country and anchors of RK.
Hardworking station manager Justin Pontino points out, “We’re celebrating with the theme ‘S7REAMING BEYOND,’ which calls us to go further in our mission of education, engagement and evangelization. Aside from highlighting our flagship programs, featuring special guests and throwback content to our 7-year journey, from August 28 until our next anniversary milestone on February 14 (first time we went on air) we will launch new programs and release exclusive content designed to strengthen our digital presence and deepen connections with our audience. These initiatives aim to take Radyo Katipunan beyond its current reach — expanding conversations, innovating formats and building an even more dynamic campus-community radio experience.”
Justin further stressed, “‘S7REAMING BEYOND’ reflects our commitment to go further than what we have achieved – beyond Ateneo where we serve not just the campus, but the wider Church and Philippine society; beyond our comfort zones by innovating content, embracing new platforms, and tackling challenging conversations; and beyond our borders to reach Filipino communities and Jesuit networks worldwide.”
As RK continues to play a significant role in the school community and the country, promoting spiritual growth, community building and social awareness, its commitment to quality broadcasting and engagement with various sectors of society makes it an essential part of the Philippine media landscape.
