CinemaBravo

A new wave of young storytellers stepped forward as 25 filmmakers from various regions in the Philippines presented compelling works on youth culture, identity, and tobacco control during the TobaccOFF NOW! Film Festival Pre-Screening Press Conference.

The showcase precedes the festival’s official debut on December 13.

The initiative—organized by Amber Studios together with the Metro Manila Development Authority, Metro Manila Film Festival, HealthJustice Philippines, Parents Against Vape, Action for Economic Reforms, Social Watch, Philippine Smoke-Free Movement, and the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development—highlights a nationwide push to empower the youth to use film and creative expression as a catalyst for social awareness and advocacy.

As part of this year’s program, the young creators joined an intensive boot camp on filmmaking and narrative development. The workshop was facilitated by respected journalists, editors, and filmmakers such as Jacque Manabat, Chiara Zambrano, Tops Brugada, and Jobert Monteras. Through guided mentorship, practical sessions, and collaborative brainstorming, participants crafted short films that examine today’s shifting youth landscape and reveal the challenges, pressures, and personal journeys influenced by tobacco and nicotine products.

“The festival gives young people the platform to tell their own stories—raw, authentic, and unfiltered,” said Jacque Manabat representing Amber Studios. “We’ve seen how tobacco and vape products increasingly target the youth through appealing designs, flavors, and online strategies. These films help make sense of the realities behind those tactics and the impact they leave on young lives.”

Throughout the bootcamp, mentors guided participants in developing their narrative voice, strengthening their visual style, and exploring the deeper emotional truths behind their stories.

“Storytelling is a form of power—and these young filmmakers are learning to wield it with purpose. What moved me most was their honesty. These films don’t preach; they reveal. And when young people reveal their own truths, it becomes impossible to ignore. And we, at MMDA and MMFF are very happy that we have supported this important advocacy” said Dir. Rochelle Ona of MMFF.

The pre-screening press conference offered media and key partners an exclusive first look at selected films, along with opportunities to hear directly from the filmmakers about the inspiration behind their work. The event aims to highlight how creative storytelling can spark conversations, challenge norms, and reshape perceptions around smoking and vaping among young Filipinos.

Beyond showcasing cinematic talent, the TobaccOFF NOW! Film Festival forms part of a broader youth-led campaign advocating for stronger protections for minors and pushing for a shift toward healthier, more empowered lifestyle choices. Through art, dialogue, and community mobilization, the initiative hopes to help build a new cultural momentum—one where young people champion a future free from addiction and harmful industry influence.

“As young filmmakers, we’re not just making content—we’re trying to spark conversations that our peers are often too afraid to start. This experience proved that youth voices can be powerful, and that our stories can push culture in a new direction,” said Jia Santorias, representing the PSFM film crew.

The full festival is scheduled for December 13, 2025.