By Dave Louie Blas
#NewsBites: Far Eastern University student films ‘Kahel’ and ‘Ibong Yabi’ were named contenders for separate categories in the 38th Cultural Center of the Philippines Gawad Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video (Gawad Alternatibo) last July 11 and 14.
Directed by graduating communication student Garnet Llames, the musical short film Kahel vies for Gawad Alternatibo’s Narrative Category after winning Sinepiyu XVIII Best Film, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Best Music/Score last May 7.
Exploring the story of an office worker who decided to pursue his dreams through music, the 20-minute musical film narrates one’s creative perseverance despite turbulent periods of life.
Moreover, short documentary Ibong Yabi, directed by incoming fourth-year communication student Mark Jomil Reyes, contends for this year’s Gawad Alternatibo’s Documentary Category after clinching Best Sound Award in the TAM DokyuFest 2026 last May 8.
The documentary features the story of Mangyan Alangan women who stepped up to be the main providers for their families through kaingin farming and broomstick making.
Gawad Alternatibo will hold its screenings from August 7 to 16 at the Red Carpet Cinemas in Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City, and Gateway Cineplex 18 in Quezon City.
The annual independent film competition was established in 1987, making it the longest-running of its kind in Southeast Asia.
(Photos courtesy of TAM DokyuFest and Sinepiyu Facebook pages)