By Niña Christelle Sumintac, Stratcom Correspondent

Dr. Romel Pascua, a faculty member of the MMSU College of Teacher Education (CTE), received the Kidlat Kapwa Award for his film “Zanjera” during the Montañosa Film Festival 2024 held March 23 at the CAP-John Hay Trade and Cultural Center in Baguio City.

Conferred by National Artist Kidlat Tahimik, the Father of Philippine Independent Cinema, the major award recognizes independent filmmakers who embody creativity, resourcefulness, and a distinct personal vision. The coveted recognition highlights the Filipino concept of Kapwa, acknowledging the interconnectedness and empathy shared among individuals.

The Montañosa Film Festival organizers cited Pascua’s film, which “exemplified the power of community spirit and fearlessly portrayed how a group of individuals can unite to safeguard something as seemingly ordinary as a canal, which profoundly impacts the lives of each community member.” The MMSU filmmaker told the story of the Zanjera Macupit of Bacarra, his hometown.

"We are grateful and humbled to be conferred with this recognition. This award inspires us to write more compelling and truthful narratives about the Ilokano people, culture, and heritage,” Dr. Pascua said.

The Montañosa Film Festival 2024 is co-presented by the City Government of Baguio, the Department of Tourism, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the Department of Trade and Industry, and other partners.

Dr. Pascua, an assistant professor at the MMSU College of Teacher Education, is head of Lamina Productions, which has produced award-winning documentaries, including Aweng, adjudged Best Picture in the Tan-Ok ni Ilokano Film Festival 2023, and Dung-aw, the Best Documentary Film winner in the 2022 Abrenian Heritage Film Festival. 

In receiving the Kidlat Kapwa Award, Pascua was joined by two videographers from Lamina Productions: MMSU students Gniro Vinz Pablo (BS Economics II) and Casmir Remyell Cadiente (BS Civil Engineering III), who also serves as an editor. Ryand Angelo Ugalde (AB Communication III), who wasn`t present at that time, is the assistant director and narrator of Zanjera. Among the members of the festival jury was renowned film director Joyce Bernal.