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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider Brillante Mendoza questions ₱12,000 water bill while in Jordan for film festival

Brillante Mendoza questions ₱12,000 water bill while in Jordan for film festival

Published Jul 31, 2026 11:50 am  |  Updated Jul 31, 2026 03:24 pm

Acclaimed Filipino filmmaker Brillante Mendoza found himself dealing with an unexpected problem back home even as he represents the Philippines at the Amman International Film Festival in Jordan.

In a social media post, Mendoza questioned a water bill amounting to more than ₱12,000, saying he was surprised by the charge while he was overseas attending the international film event.

The award-winning director called on the water utility to look into the billing, noting that he has been out of the country during the period in question.

Despite the concern, Mendoza has continued with his commitments at the festival, where he is serving as a member of the international jury for debut feature films from filmmakers outside the Arab world.

A Cannes Best Director winner for "Kinatay," Mendoza is among the prominent filmmakers tasked with evaluating emerging talents from across the globe.

Aside from his jury duties, Mendoza also conducted a masterclass on film financing and international co-productions, sharing his experience in bringing Filipino films to the global market.

The festival also mounted a special screening of his acclaimed 2016 film "Ma' Rosa," which made history after the late Jaclyn Jose won the Best Actress prize at the Cannes Film Festival for her performance.

Mendoza remains one of the Philippines' most decorated filmmakers, with his works regularly featured at major international film festivals.

Related Tags

Brillante Mendoza Amman International Film Festival Jordan Philippine cinema Filipino filmmaker Ma\' Rosa Jaclyn Jose Cannes Film Festival Kinatay
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