GMA Network, through its subsidiaries GMA Pictures, GMA Entertainment Group, and GMA Public Affairs, will present a variety of films and documentaries at the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival, starting August 2.
Among the offerings is “Balota,” directed by Kip Oebanda. This film, produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Entertainment Group, is one of the finalists in the full-length films category. It tells the story of Emmy, a teacher portrayed by Marian Rivera, who becomes entangled in political turmoil during a Philippine election.
The festival will also feature the world premiere of the digitally restored and remastered “Jose Rizal” (1998) at the Manila Metropolitan Theater.
Additionally, GMA Public Affairs will present its first-ever investigative documentary film, “Lost Sabungeros,” directed by Bryan Brazil. This film explores the unsolved disappearances of cockfighting enthusiasts in 2022.
The Manila International Film Festival Best Picture “Firefly” will be part of the festival’s exhibition program. Directed by Zig Dulay and based on a story by GMA Public Affairs Senior AVP Angeli Atienza, this film depicts a young boy’s journey to find the mystical land of fireflies.
GMA Public Affairs will also showcase several acclaimed documentaries under Cinemalaya’s “Gawad Programming.” These include “Boat to School,” “Sisid sa Putik,” “Ambulansiyang de Paa,” and “Bawat Barya.”
Furthermore, GMA Public Affairs has supported the in-competition film “Alipato at Muog,” directed by JL Burgos, by providing archival footage. The film narrates the disappearance of the director’s brother, activist Jonas Burgos.
Cinemalaya’s 20th year screenings will take place at Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
