Three Filipino films bagged top prizes in separate international film festivals.
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) congratulated on Friday the production teams of “Pan de Salawal,” “Latay,” and “Filipiñana” for their win.
The 2018 Cinemalaya film “Pan de Salawal (The Sweet Taste of Salted Bread and Undies)” won the Best Film in the Low Budget Category at the Spain-based 5th Callela Film Festival held last Oct.10.
The film, directed by Che Espiritu, follows the story of a lonely baker suffering from a chronic kidney condition.
Meanwhile, “Latay (Battered Husband),” directed by Ralston Jover, won the Gold Award at the 2nd Wallachia International Film Festival held in Bucharest, Romania from Sept. 11 to 13.
It follows the story of a rural couple, where the husband is awkwardly “suffering” from his wife expressing discontent over their dysfunctional relationship.
“Filipiñana,” directed by Rafael Manuel, won the Best International Short Film Competition at the 49th Festival du Nouveau Cinéma de Montrréal held in Canada last Oct. 14.
The film follows the story of “tee-girls” who fulfill their duties stoically, squatting in the dust as they sort golf balls.
“Filipiñana” also bagged the prestigious Silver Bear Jury prize at the 70th Berlin International Film Festival.