Filmmakers and artists were recognized during the Cine Chavacano 2025
ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) — Filmmakers and artists were recognised during the annual Cine Chavacano Film Festival on February 28th. The festival celebrates the talent and creativity of Zamboangueño filmmakers and artists. It forms part of the 88th Dia de Zamboanga festivities, organized by the non-profit organization JCI Zamboanga in collaboration with the City Government of Zamboanga through the City Tourism Office.
The film “Animal Lovers,” directed by Aedrian Araojo, emerged as the top winner, securing a total cash prize of P60,000. This sum comprised P30,000 from six special awards, each valued at P5,000, including Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Poster, Best Director, Best Actress, and Best Actor. The remaining P30,000 was awarded for Best Cine Chavacano Film.
Meanwhile, “Espejo” (Mirror), directed by Michael Pallar, secured second place with a prize of P25,000, while “Nuevo Vida” (New Life), directed by Melvin Clyde, earned third place with P20,000. All winners received certificates, plaques, and cash prizes from the City Government of Zamboanga. Non-winning finalists each received P5,000 and a plaque.
“Animal Lovers” tells the story of a pregnant woman who, suspecting her husband’s affection for his carabao, devises a plan to eliminate her perceived rival to reclaim her position.
Additional award recipients included “Don’t Pick Flowers,” directed by Asramia Awal, which received the JCI Zamboanga Viewer’s Choice Award. Aedrian Araojo won Best Director for “Animal Lovers,” which also garnered the Best Screenplay award. Carlos Mauricio was recognized for Best Cinematography for “Animal Lovers,” while Michael Pallar received Best Film Editing for “Espejo.” “Nuevo Vida” was awarded Best Production Design, with Erran Jude Francisco and Melvin Clyde recognized for their work. “Hagas-Hagas,” directed by Jun Señara, won Best Culture-Sensitive Film. Iana Bernardez and Karl Medina were awarded Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively, for their roles in “Animal Lovers.” Michael Pallar also received Best Trailer for “Espejo,” and Aedrian Araojo secured Best Poster for “Animal Lovers.” Judging was based on content (30 percen), technical quality (30 percent), and overall impact (40 percent).
Mayor John Dalipe, represented by JCI Zamboanga President and City Agriculturist Arben Magdugo, emphasized the festival’s role in showcasing local talent.
“The Cine Chavacano is a space and platform where the masterpieces of our directors and artists can be seen. This is a way to show the world the creativity and abundance of Zamboangueño talent and genius,” Magdugo said. (JFT/PIA Region 9 – Zamboanga City / with reports from City Government of Zamboanga-PIO)
