DAGUPAN CITY (PIA) — Pangasinan is setting its sights on becoming a leading filmmaking hub in the Philippines, nurturing local talent and creating a vibrant film culture.

The provincial government, under Gov. Ramon Guico III, is taking concrete steps towards this goal. 

They recently launched the PangaSINE Official Film Festival, a multi-faceted initiative that includes workshops, screenings, and a commitment to showcasing Pangasinan's unique stories.

"This is not merely a dream, but a vision that Pangasinenses can actively turn into reality," said Provincial Legal Officer Baby Ruth Tore, who represented the governor during the kick-off of the film festival at the Sison Auditorium in Lingayen town. 

The festival started with a workshop, "Hulmaan na Pelikula", which offered aspiring filmmakers from Pangasinan valuable training in cinematography, directing, documentary production, editing, and writing.

Over 100 participants received insights from renowned mentors like National Artist for Film Kidlat Tahimik, who emphasized the importance of drawing inspiration from local narratives and cultural heritage.

"Find the genius within the indigenous narratives – the strength of your cultural heritage," he advised.

Edward Delos Santos Cabagnot, a co-founder of Cinemalaya, echoed this sentiment, stating, "We aspire for more stories in Pangasinan. Our aim extends beyond hosting workshops; we envision establishing a hub for film culture in Pangasinan."

The festival also featured "Sine by the Sea" an exhibition showcasing the works of Pangasinan filmmakers. 

Audiences enjoyed screenings of six narrative films and four documentaries that explored Pangasinan's history, culture, and the lives of its people.

Allysa Danice Dela Cruz, a film enthusiast and communication student at PHINMA-University of Pangasinan, expressed her excitement about PangaSINE. 

"This is a dream come true for storytellers. I can't wait to see how PangaSINE unfolds and connects with more communities in Pangasinan," she said.

Pangasinan's film scene is poised for growth, and PangaSINE is paving the way for a new generation of Filipino filmmakers to emerge from the north. (JCR/AMB/JCDR/PIA Pangasinan)