The second CinePanalo Film Festival has kickstarted with an introductory press conference that promises a bigger and bolder edition for 2025.
As a sequel to last year’s historic debut, next year’s festival aims to give filmmakers across the country more opportunities to showcase their skill, creativity, and dedication to their craft.
Watch our video coverage of the first presscon of CinePanalo Film Festival 2025 here:
Puregold is leveraging the success of the festival’s inaugural run as a springboard for something even more significant. The second Puregold CinePanalo boasts an increased funding pool for selected filmmakers, with seven full-length directors each set to receive a production grant worth three million pesos (P3,000,000), while twenty-five selected student short film directors will receive a production grant worth one hundred and fifty thousand pesos (P150,000). The second edition’s seven full-length film grants surpass the six from the first edition.
At the press conference, it was emphasized that, similar to the previous edition, the second Puregold CinePanalo seeks film entries that highlight the indomitable spirit of the Filipino through uplifting and inspiring “panalo stories.” Attendees were reminded that those who believe they have what it takes must submit a complete screenplay among other requirements by July 30 for full-length films or August 15 for student shorts.
To encourage aspiring filmmakers to join the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, a group of directors from last year’s event attended the press conference to share their experiences. Present at the launch was Always Panalo Film awardee Carlo Obispo. Best Picture winner Kurt Soberano, of the recently re-screened “Under A Piaya Moon,” also sent a special video message encouraging filmmakers to submit their panalo stories.
Additionally, five student directors shared their experiences to demonstrate the opportunities Puregold CinePanalo can bring to young aspiring filmmakers. In attendance were Best Short Film winner Ronjay Mendiola, Always Panalo Film awardee Jenievive Adame, Best Director winner Dizelle Masilungan, and regional filmmakers Marian Jayce Tiongzon and Joanah Demonteverde.
The event opened with a speech from Puregold’s Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Piedad, who emphasized the importance of rewarding Filipino artistry and celebrating the spirit of Kwentong Panalo ng Buhay. She highlighted Puregold CinePanalo’s mission to provide opportunities to student filmmakers who may not have the same access to filmmaking resources as established directors do.
“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,” said Piedad.
She noted how the previous iteration of Puregold CinePanalo was instrumental in highlighting the talents of several young, aspiring filmmakers, some of whom have used the competition’s momentum to further their artistic dreams.
“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 read through the mechanics of the 2025 Puregold CinePanalo Festival, available on Puregold’s official social media accounts. After reviewing the mechanics, aspiring contestants can submit their applications at https://forms.gle/wNUUQ62okYcyW5r37. For more information, inquiries can be sent to thesecretariat@cinepanalo.com.
CinemaBravo 
Leave a Reply