Filipinos have long been known as the silent driving force of the animation industry. Many of the animated shows we’ve enjoyed over the years often had scenes drawn by several artists based here. Often, local animation studios handle the in-between animation for multiple series.

These days, Filipino animation has gone on a global scale as more Filipino-produced titles start breaking into the mainstream. It’s refreshing to see that even in our local film festivals, including this year’s run of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival (Cinemalaya 22), animated stories are given the cinematic treatment as well.

For Cinemalaya 22, there are two animated tales to look forward to: “Runo” by Lysa Catolico and Jazmine Gin R. Pateña, and “The Keeper” by Nolan Rae Fabular and TRNZ.

“Runo” follows the story of a rescue dog on the search for her owner as she grapples with an empty food bowl. Other than hunger, the loveable “aspin” also has to navigate a post-apocalyptic Philippines infested by zombies.

Meanwhile, “The Keeper” centers around a keeper of a meticulously designed trophy hall having to deal with a sudden intruder. As she tries to deal with the intruder, more truths about her surroundings unravel before her.

Both films are animated in 2-D style. A welcome sight, given how the 3-D CGI style has dominated mainstream animated films in recent years. “Runo” stands out for its vibrant colors, despite its gloomy environment. Runo’s design is also just as lovable as the loyal “aspins” we see on a daily basis.

As for “The Keeper,” the environment design evokes the feeling of how grand a scale the trophy room is. Looking at the background art, it’s almost as if every trophy is individually drawn. This makes us feel just how hands-on its keeper is and how careful thought is placed by the artist to give life to her surroundings.

Cinemalaya 22 will run from Aug. 6 to 18, with screenings taking place at Shangri-la Plaza’s Red Carpet Cinemas, Gateway Cineplex, and Ayala Malls Cinemas.