In a bold initiative to foster local filmmaking and kindle a newfound appreciation for diverse cinematic narratives, Cagayan de Oro City is set to host the fourth edition of Cine de Oro Film Festival from December 15 to 17 at Karumata and Limektkai Mall.
Initiated by a passionate group of filmmakers from Cagayan de Oro, the Cine de Oro Film Festival is more than just an event—it’s an advocacy project. The aim is to develop audiences and filmmakers not just within the city but also in neighboring municipalities and regions.
CDOFF Management Committee (L-R) Orpheus Neri, Joe Bacus, Rodiell Veleoso & this writer.
Orpheus Nery, the festival director, emphasizes the need for a broader understanding of cinema.
“Most Kagay-anon are familiar only with Hollywood, Netflix, and Korean movies, but cinema goes beyond these avenues and we would like to highlight that in this edition of the Festival by showcasing local and national works,” Nery stressed. “The festival aspires to cultivate a diverse audience, encouraging local artists to step out of their comfort zones and share stories that resonate globally.”
A Platform for Emerging Talents
Spanning three days, the Festival is not just a celebration but a launchpad for emerging talents in the art of filmmaking. The Main Competition features outstanding home-grown short films from Cagayan de Oro, showcasing the richness of Kagay-anon storytelling.
The Open Competition welcomes filmmakers from outside Cagayan de Oro City, with two sub-categories under its scope: Narrative and Experimental. This format was introduced in last year’s edition of Cine de Oro, which Nery aims to continue as an avid fan of alternative films himself.
“VALOR: The Legacy of Col. Emmanuel V. De Ocampo”
Scheduled for the festival’s kickoff on December 15 and directed by Bani Logrono, “Valor: The Legacy of Col. Emmanuel V. De Ocampo” explores an extraordinary cinematic journey. This film immerses viewers in the captivating life of Colonel Emmanuel V. De Ocampo, a respected figure in the nation, delivering a heartfelt exploration of Philippine history during World War II.
“Topografia” by Gutierrez Mangansakan II
Topografia
As the curtain falls on the Cine de Oro Film Festival, the closing film, Topografia by Gutierrez Mangansakan II, is a profound exploration of friendship, choices, and the complex landscapes of Mindanao. Drawing from the shared universe of Teng’s 2016 film Moro2mrw: Daughters of the Three-Tailed Banner, Topografia is an exploration into the story of lifelong friends navigating the intricacies of their futures.
Beyond Local Borders
Cine de Oro Film Festival is not just a local affair; it’s a national celebration. The program aims to reach not only local audiences, communities and schools in Cagayan de Oro City, but also film enthusiasts from all corners of the country. The festival is designed not only to enrich the local art scene, but also to boost the tourism landscape of the city.
Cine de Oro Film Festival expresses profound gratitude to its key sponsors, including musician Arthur Nery, whose continued support enriches the local filmmaking community, Italpinas Development Corporation, and Limketkai Center, serving as a venue and a cultural hub for filmmakers and moviegoers alike.
Cine de Oro also expresses gratitude for the Philippine Veterans Bank, who sponsored the opening film. The festival thrives on the collaborative efforts of these sponsors, whose generosity enhances the cultural fabric of Cagayan de Oro City, making the cinematic celebration a reality for audiences and artists alike.
####
