By Jemuel Cainglet Salterio
Director JE Tiglao’s “Her Locket” emerged as the biggest victor during the sixth edition of the Sinag Maynila Film Festival. The much-anticipated return of the festival, following a four-year hiatus, culminated in a grand Gabi ng Parangal last Sunday at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theater.
Tiglao’s “Her Locket” went home with seven awards, including Best Film and Best Director, underlining the director’s skill.
“Her Locket,” a deeply personal and resonant work, also earned Best Screenplay and Best Production for its immersive narrative and compelling artistry.
Jag Concepcion received the Best Cinematography honor, while its outstanding cast garnered the Best Ensemble Acting award.
Elora Españo’s moving portrayal in the film earned her the Best Supporting Actress award, a well-deserved recognition for her role in this multi-awarded piece.
The highlight of the evening, however, was the announcement of Rebecca Chuaunsu as Best Actress for her exceptional performance in “Her Locket.”
In her emotional acceptance speech,Chuaunsu shared the long and personal journey that led her to this moment.
“‘Her Locket’ has been in my mind for the past 32 years,” she revealed. “Nine years ago, when I applied to be in the directing class of director Brillante Mendoza … the staff texted me back, [asking me to give] five compelling reasons why Direk Brillante has to accept [me] as a directing student. I said I don’t have five reasons — I have only one compelling reason. If I don’t produce my movie, I cannot breathe. So tonight, I can finally breathe.”
The night was also a celebration of other outstanding works. Seasoned actor Ronnie Lazaro claimed Best Actor for his intense performance in “The Gospel of the Beast.” Bryan Wong’s deft editing in “Banjo” earned him the Best Editing trophy, while the crowd-pleaser “Talahib” won the People’s Choice Award.
The festival also spotlighted excellence in short films and documentaries, further underscoring the diversity of Filipino storytelling. In the short film category, “As the Moth Flies” took the top honor as 1st Best Short Film, followed by “Bisan Abo Mabilin” and “Ang Maniniyot ni Papa Jesus” for 2nd and 3rd Best Short Film, respectively.
Best Documentary went to “INO,” while two Jury Prizes were awarded to “Pag-Ibig ang Mananaig” and “Ghost of Kalantiaw.”
This year’s Sinag Maynila marked a triumphant return for the festival, cementing its role as a vital platform for both seasoned and emerging filmmakers. With its goal to celebrate and promote Filipino cinematic talent, the festival once again proved its capacity to spotlight stories that resonate with both local and international audiences.
“Her Locket” and its team took home the lion’s share of awards, but the event served as a tribute to the entire community of Filipino filmmakers who continue to push the boundaries of the craft. As the dust settles on this year’s Sinag Maynila, it is clear that Filipino cinema is not only thriving but evolving in profound and exciting ways.
