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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider Lav Diaz's 'Magellan' is PH's official entry to the 98th Oscars

Lav Diaz's 'Magellan' is PH's official entry to the 98th Oscars

Published Sep 2, 2025 11:25 am  |  Updated Sep 2, 2025 04:27 pm

At A Glance

  • Lav Diaz's 'Magellan' was chosen to represent the Philippines at the 98th Oscars from a pool of contenders.
After premiering at Cannes last May, Lav Diaz's historical film, "Magellan," will serve as the Philippines’ official nominee for Best International Feature Film at the 98th Oscars.
The Film Development Council of the Philippines announced the news during the opening ceremony of the Philippine Film Industry Month, held at the Shangri-La Plaza on Sept. 1.
The Best International Feature Film category celebrates films that transcend geographical boundaries, offering a window into diverse cultures and narratives.
An international feature film is defined as a motion picture that runs longer than 40 minutes, is produced outside the United States, and features a dialogue track that is predominantly non-English, with over 50 percent of the dialogue spoken in non-English languages. This definition also encompasses captivating animated and thought-provoking documentary features.
To be eligible, films must have made their theatrical debut in their respective countries between Oct. 1, 2024, and Sept. 30, 2025. The deadline for submissions to the Academy will be on Oct. 1, 2025.
On Dec. 16, 2025, the 15 finalists will be unveiled, leading up to the high-stakes reveal of the final five nominees on Jan 22, 2026.
The Director-General of the Film Academy, Undersecretary Paolo Villaluna, congratulated the film's director, cast, and crew.
"‘Magellan’ is a powerful, poetic film and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Director Lav, Producer Paul Soriano, and the entire cast and crew. We recognize that 'Magellan's' Oscars journey is only just beginning, and we stand ready to support the film. The Film Academy will work closely with them to navigate the intricacies of the Oscars campaign, and will provide government assistance when needed to ensure their vision is shared with the world," he said.
Also considered for the same were Antoinette Jadaone’s "Sunshine," Zig Dulay’s "Green Bones," Cathy Garcia-Sampana’s "Hello, Love, Again," Baby Ruth Villarama’s "Food Delivery," Petersen Vargas’ "Some Nights I Feel Like Walking," and King Palisoc’s "Song of the Fireflies."
"Magellan,” starring Gael Garcia Bernal as the titular explorer, will screen nationwide beginning September 10.
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