Mariano Marcos
State University

Two MMSU filmmakers each receive 200K grant from FDCP

By Jareason Fabre

Two filmmakers of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) have each received a P200,000 production grant from the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) after being selected as finalists in the 2026 Sinekabataan Short Film Lab and Festival.

Third-year communication student Zechri Jacob Alvarez and MMSU communication alum and Innovation and Technology Project Technical Staff member Ryand Angelo Ugalde were among the finalists selected from more than 200 entries submitted nationwide, earning support to produce their respective short films.

Alvarez’s short film, 𝘒𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘢 (Octopus), follows a determined granddaughter who discovers that important requirements for financial assistance are missing and must navigate a broken bureaucratic system while preparing a birthday surprise for her grandmother. Through its intimate narrative, the film explores themes of family, perseverance, and the challenges ordinary Filipinos face in accessing public services.

Meanwhile, Ugalde’s 𝘗𝘪𝘺𝘦𝘴𝘢 tells the story of a star soprano undergoing gender transition who faces a difficult decision on whether to begin hormone replacement therapy (HRT). As the treatment threatens to alter his vocal range and tone, he risks losing his place in the chorale, along with the opportunities, recognition, and sense of identity that come with the role. The film examines questions of self-discovery, sacrifice, and authenticity through the lens of music and personal transformation.

Alvarez and Ugalde's selection points to the growing presence of MMSU filmmakers in national film programs and the renewed interest in filmmaking within the university. As more students, alumni, and young professionals create films that explore social issues and personal stories, MMSU continues to support emerging storytellers whose work on social realities reaches audiences beyond the campus and the region. 

The films are slated to premiere during the 9th Sinekabataan Festival in September 2026, where they will join a select lineup of youth-produced films from across the country. The festival serves as one of the country's premier platforms for emerging filmmakers, providing mentorship, production support, and national exposure for the next generation of cinematic storytellers.