The highly anticipated second year of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival has officially begun, following its introductory press conference held on July 23 at the Gateway Cineplex 18. Building on the success of last year’s historic debut, this year’s festival promises to offer filmmakers across the country even greater opportunities to showcase their talent, creativity, and dedication to the craft.
Puregold is leveraging the success of the inaugural festival as a springboard for an even grander event this year. The 2025 Puregold CinePanalo features an increased funding pool, with seven full-length directors set to receive a production grant worth three million pesos (P 3,000,000) each, and twenty-five selected student short film directors receiving a grant of one hundred and fifty thousand pesos (P150,000) each. This year, seven full-length film grants will be awarded, surpassing last year’s six.
During the press conference, it was emphasized that, as in the previous year, this year’s Puregold CinePanalo seeks film entries that capture the indomitable spirit of the Filipino through uplifting and inspiring “panalo stories.” Filmmakers must submit a complete screenplay and other requirements by July 30 for full-length films or Aug. 15 for student shorts.
To encourage aspiring filmmakers to participate, a number of directors from last year’s event attended the press conference to share their experiences. Among them was Always Panalo Film awardee Carlo Obispo. Best Picture winner Kurt Soberano, known for his film Under A Piaya Moon, sent a special video message encouraging filmmakers to submit their “panalo” stories.
In addition to messages from full-length directors, five student directors shared their experiences to highlight the opportunities that Puregold CinePanalo can offer young aspiring filmmakers. These included Always Panalo Film awardee Jenievive Adame, Best Director winner Dizelle Masilungan, and regional filmmakers Marian Jayce Tiongzon and Joanah Demonteverde.
The event was opened by Puregold’s Senior Marketing Manager, Ivy Piedad, who emphasized the importance of celebrating Filipino artistry and the spirit of Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay. She highlighted Puregold CinePanalo’s commitment to providing opportunities for student filmmakers who may not have access to the same resources as established directors.
“When we first launched Puregold CinePanalo, we envisioned it to champion Filipino stories, advocate for student filmmakers by providing them with a platform for their dream short films, and elevate the local film scene,” Piedad said.
She noted how the first Puregold CinePanalo brought to light the talents of several young, aspiring filmmakers, some of whom have continued to pursue their artistic dreams thanks to the competition.
“We saw the birth of promising talents, with several inspiring stories that came to life on the big screen. Fueled by last edition’s success, here we are once again!” Piedad continued, “Back and bigger than ever, ready to celebrate another year of incredible films and mark the second chapter of Puregold CinePanalo.”
All interested filmmakers are encouraged to review the mechanics of the 2025 Puregold CinePanalo Festival, available on Puregold’s official social media accounts. After reviewing the guidelines, contestants can submit their official applications through this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfXVbMLEbmOL7_qWveSK3xar9gD5UNl1Mk8njoUXT9u6ra0pA/viewform
For more information, inquiries can be sent to thesecretariat@cinepanalo.com.
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