The cinematic storytelling of Far Eastern University Department of Communication students takes center stage once again, as two FEU student films, “Ibong Yabi” and “Kahel,” have been selected as finalists in the 38th Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Gawad Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video or Gawad Alternatibo.
“Ibong Yabi,” directed by Mark Jomil Reyes, is a short documentary that opens a window into the lives of Mangyan Alangan women. Lybelyn and Diana, stepping up as the main providers for their respective families, navigate a landscape of systemic neglect and scarce economic options.
The documentary captures their daily grind, from traditional “kaingin” farming and making “walis tingting” (broomsticks) to taking on unpredictable manual labor. Beyond the hardships, however, the film stands as a tribute to the determination and dreams of the two indigenous women.
Before making it to Gawad Alternatibo’s Documentary Category, “Ibong Yabi” took home Best Sound for Jarvey Abutan at FEU DepComm’s Tam DokyuFest 2026. Abutan was recognized for building the rich, textured soundscapes that brought the Mangyan community’s environment to life.
On the other hand, “Kahel” is a 20-minute musical short directed by Garnet Morilla Llames and brought to life by Kuwerdas production house. The story follows Elias, an office worker who leaves the safety of a 9-to-5 desk job behind to chase his musical ambitions in the city. A sudden jeepney breakdown alters his course, unexpectedly stranding him with his lifelong musical hero.
“Kahel” heads to Gawad Alternatibo’s Narrative Category riding a wave of momentum from Sinepiyu XVIII, FEU’s student film festival run by the FEU Film Society. Competing in the All Tamaraws Division, the film swept top honors, including Best Film, Best Direction, Best Editing, and Best Music/Score. It also clinched the Gawad Bathala Best Film at the Tamaraw Media Awards.
For Llames, who forms half of the indie-pop duo Justin + Garnet, the project is deeply personal. He describes “Kahel” as a love letter to anyone caught between the harsh realities of survival and the pull of creative passion.
“Kahel is a musical short film about chasing dreams,” Llames shared, dedicating the work to “the dreamers who keep going no matter how hard it gets.”
The success of both projects highlights the hands-on mentorship defining FEU’s communication program. “Ibong Yabi” found its wings under the guidance of media practitioner Julius Segovia in his Documentary Production course, while “Kahel” was developed as a final project in the Directing and Film Production class facilitated by filmmaker and educator Seymour Sanchez.
Film enthusiasts can catch both “Ibong Yabi” and “Kahel” as they compete on the national stage. Gawad Alternatibo will run from August 7 to 16 at the Red Carpet Cinemas in Shangri-La Plaza and Gateway Cineplex 18.
