Bituin Escalante

CINEMALAYA is the premiere film festival and competition that promotes Independent Cinema. Every year since 2005, it is eagerly anticipated by both filmmaker and audience. The festival inspires artistic creativity and the critical appreciation in the narrative of the Filipino experience.

This year’s selection once again showcases the bold strides that the Indie film industry has made. In this light, playwright/director Dustin Celestino’s film, ‘Ang Duyan Ng Magiting’ stands out.

The film showcases an ensemble cast of well-respected and veteran actors Dolly de Leon, Agot Isidro, Miggy Jimenez, Jojit Lorenzo, Frances Makil-Ignacio, Paolo O’Hara, Joel Saracho, Dylan Ray Talon and Bituin Escalante.

In a series of chapters that depict life and violence in the Philippines, these stories connect the lives of a college professor, a university chancellor, a social worker, a police chief, two students, two mothers, and a lawyer.

Bituin Escalante enthralled industry stalwarts and audiences alike with her evocative role of Atty. Emy Gonzales, a lawyer who used to hold idealistic views but has become pragmatic over the years.

Escalante may not be new to the festival but this is only her second film for Cinemalaya.

“The first Cinemalaya film I was a part of was in the very first festival back in 2005. It was “Pepot Artista” by Clodualdo del Mundo, Jr.” It went on to win best film.

Having worked with accomplished film directors such as Lav Diaz, being given the opportunity to work with Palanca Award winner direk Dustin Celestino was a no-brainer.

Escalante also spoke warmly of her experience working with the cast, saying, “Masaya ako na ginawa ko itong pelikulang ito. Bago kami mag-shooting, we had a cold reading. Yun yung unang beses na nabasa ng buong cast yung script. Nakakabilib sila.” Bituin continues, “The cast was at the top of their game. No egos, and all work. Everyone helped each other out. It’s amazing that giants in the industry are the most supportive.”

It is truly refreshing to see Bituin Escalante very visible these days. With an impressive body of work in theater, film and music, we are looking forward to more of what’s coming up for her.

Currently, Bituin is working on new songs and material and collaborations for an upcoming album. In addition to her film and music projects, Escalante has recently joined the star-studded roster of judges in the singing contest “Tawag ng Tanghalan” on It's Showtime. Dubbed the country's Stellar Diva, Escalante was warmly welcomed to the show on July 6.

With her recent films, music, and television endeavors, Bituin Escalante continues to be a beacon of talent and inspiration in the Filipino entertainment industry.

For exciting news and cool updates on Bituin Escalante, follow @gobituin on X and @bituinea on Instagram; and like Bituin Escalante on Facebook.