Eli Dacuma

May 2, 2025 | 12:50 PM PHT

Pioneering film and media company EdukSine Studios partners up with the Ateneo Film Organization (AFO) for their annual Interschool Film Festival this May 3 at the BlackBox Theater, ASHS Building.

With the theme Pure Imagination, AFO seeks to feature inspiring and unique narratives that highlight the country’s current social issues, and introduce the festival attendees to new concepts and have a newfound appreciation for film and cinema. 

With just a few days before the open house, the organization introduced the 13 short films made by student filmmakers across different schools:

• Istorya Nin Paghuna
• DAMGO
• Kayod
• Alaala ng Dakilang Kalsada
• Si! Laudato Kami
• Timebound
• ‘Nak
• unpublished
• Like the Movies
• Si Faerie Na Fairy; Duwende
• The Exam
• Bakas ng Tagubtob
• The God at the Bottom of the Bottle

Three workshops will be simultaneously conducted in different breakout rooms during the event. 

The Directing workshop is led by What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim Director Chad Vidanes, centering on developing creative vision, working with actors, and team collaboration for a cohesive and impactful story.

Production Designer and Ateneo De Manila University alum Yanna Parpan is the second speaker. Her workshop will focus on processes surrounding sets, costumes, and props that support a film’s narrative.

Finally, Replacing Chef Chico cinematographer Geia de Vera is the third speaker. With her guidance, the workshop participants shall explore framing, lighting, and camera movements fitting for their respective films.

The workshops shall be followed up by a ‘Talk From the Industry’ segment with The Kingdom director and Ateneo De Manila University alum Mike Tuviera in the main venue.

The AFO Interschool Film Festival is open to all individuals. The event will run on May 3 from 1 PM to 6 PM. Interested participants can still register via the ISFF 2025 Registration Form.

Follow the Ateneo Film Organization and EdukSine Studios for more updates regarding the event. 

Stay Connected

Follow EdukSine Studios on social media for updates on upcoming screenings, film talks, and cultural initiatives.

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For partnerships, collaborations, or inquiries, email us at:

info@eduksine.com

Sharlene Pineda and Cielo Gapit

Quezon City, Philippines — A celebration of timeless Filipino artistry and creativity unfolded today at the UPFI Videotheque as EdukSine Studios, together with sponsors UPFI Film Center, Power Mac Center, Kinwa Etnika, and The Chocolate Chamber, proudly hosted the Gawad Alamat ng Sine Filipino.

This year’s event, held on April 26, 2025, was divided into three segments that paid tribute to a few of Philippine cinema’s icons. The event also showcased their films, which continue to move audiences.

The morning program opened with the special screening of “Otso,” a socio-political drama co-written by Vince Tañada and directed by the legendary Elwood “El Maestro” Perez. Distinguished guests were welcomed by EdukSine volunteers and EdukSine CEO, Miss Karen Jane Salutan-Krukover. The film, which follows a struggling writer finding inspiration in the lives of his neighbors, was lauded for its gritty portrayal of truth and society’s complexities.

Following the screening, the awarding ceremony honored two outstanding contributors to Philippine arts and culture. Atty. Vince M. Tañada was recognized with a Special Recognition Award for his trailblazing work in socially relevant theater and film. As a writer and director, Atty. Vince has reflected his courage through films like Otso, Katips, and his theater play, Juan Luna: Isang Sarsuela.

Sir George Jarlego was also honored with the Gawad Alamat ng Sine Filipino sa Likod ng Kamera award for his invaluable contributions as a film editor, playing a key role in the creation of some of the country’s most influential films.

Shortly after, Eduksine hosted a screening of the classic film “Miracle of Love,” directed by Elwood Perez. This story follows Gabriel, a heartbroken man who, while traveling through Europe, falls in love with a terminally ill woman. Their relationship explores themes of love and faith capturing the emotional power of life’s most intimate connections. The program also featured a tribute video to the late Roxanne Abad Santos, whose first and final performance in the film earned her a FAMAS posthumous recognition. 

The Gawad Alamat ng Sine Filipino Awards continued with recognition given to industry icons.

Sir Gabby Concepcion, one of the most iconic actors in Philippine cinema, was presented with the Gawad Alamat ng Sine Filipino sa Harap ng Kamera Award for his decades-long excellence in acting. Known for his captivating performances in a career spanning over four decades, Sir Gabby’s performance in Miracle of Love further solidified his legacy as a leading man in Philippine cinema.

Miss Snooky Serna was honored with the Gawad Alamat ng Sine Filipino sa Harap ng Kamera Award. Known as the “Eternal Star” of the Filipino film industry, Snooky’s recent FAMAS recognition as an iconic actress adds to her legacy. 

Lastly, Sir Lutgardo “Gardy” Labad was recognized for his contributions to both film and theater over the past five decades through music. Sir Gardy was one of the composers of Miracle of Love’s theme song. Although unable to attend, Eduksine was able to present the award in person.

With his films such as Miracle of Love and Otso, Director Elwood “El Maetro” Perez was honored as the “Ama ng EdukSine”. Over the years, Sir Elwood has inspired EdukSine’s CEO Miss Karen Jane Salutan-Krukover, alongside the entire EdukSine team, through his creativity and remarkable penchant at guerilla-style filmmaking. 

Following the screening of Otso and Miracle of Love came the official face-to-face screening of Eduksine Online Film Festival’s Top 10 short films. As a social enterprise dedicated to promoting and supporting local independent films, EdukSine had handpicked 10 short films to screen online from April 27-May 11, 2025. These short films are the following: 

• Bakit Papa
  • Directed by Migo Morales
• An Kuan
  • Directed by Jo Ramos
• Gunita ng Dapithapon
  • Directed by Joven Sabio Molina
• Red
  • Directed by Aries Ferrer
• Parapo
  • Directed by Jhonny Bobier
• Ina Bulan
  • Directed by Melver Ritz Gomez
• Eskoba
  • Directed by Sherwin Ray De Leon
• Dream Town
  • Directed by Jhun Ablaza Montered
• Awang
  • Directed by Ruth Nicole Medina
• Dr. Videoke
  • Directed by Jalen Buenaseda

The official face-to-face screening was an intimate get-together of the selected films’ crews, with the event screening all of the short films, divided into two sets. The program started with EdukSine’s Creative Operations Lead, Amira Al Sobeh, providing the audience with opening remarks. The screening of Set A and Set B followed shortly. 

After the screenings came the awarding ceremony, where the short films were up for nomination for Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Editing, and People’s Choice. Selected awards also had incentives provided by EdukSine and its partners:

• People’s Choice – Php 6,000 Cash Prize
• Best Film – Php 10,000 Cash Prize and Free Digital Cinema Package (DCP) from AC Digital Post

Ina Bulan had won Best Short Film, while Parapo bagged two awards, particularly Best Director and People’s Choice. The Best Screenplay award was given to Eskoba, while Best Editing was awarded to Dream Town. Here, the filmmakers were able to give speeches regarding their films, its meanings, and gratitude to their crew. 

The festival’s short film screening ended with closing remarks given by Eduksine’s Sales Head and co-founder, Sir Roger Macua. Sir Macua had thanked everyone for attending and for their participation in the Eduksine Online Film Festival.

April 26, 2025 was a day full of celebration and empowerment for Filipino cinema, from renowned filmmakers and stars to emerging filmmakers. However, one of the largest factors to the three-part event’s successful run is Eduksine’s youth volunteers. Without these volunteers’ collaborative efforts, from preparing the event’s publication materials, participating in the short films’ selection committee, hosting, writing, handling tech, to co-heading the film festival, and more, the event would not have run as smoothly as it did.

“Last April 26, it wasn’t just the Gawad Alamat awardees or the featured short films at the EdukSine Short Film Festival that were celebrated, but also the hardwork and dedication of us youth volunteers who significantly helped in mounting the event. We are grateful that EdukSine as a youth-led organization marked another milestone, one where we grew not only as creatives but also as individuals,” said Khirsten Flores, Eduksine Online Film Festival’s Assistant Festival Director.

Through continuous efforts to celebrate Filipino cinema and its artists, Eduksine alongside its youth volunteers hope to further uplift the power of local and independent filmmaking.

Stay Connected

Follow EdukSine Studios on social media for updates on upcoming screenings, film talks, and cultural initiatives.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• TikTok
• YouTube

For partnerships, collaborations, or inquiries, email us at:

info@eduksine.com

Middle Child Media

MANILA, Philippines – A lot of exciting TV shows are being produced by third-year Communication students from the University of Santo Tomas’ Faculty of Arts and Letters. These Communication students are enrolled in the Communication program’s TV Production course, under the guidance of Asst. Prof. Faye M. Abugan, MA, a seasoned media professional.

One of these shows is Queen of the Arch, a three-episode pageant competition that highlights the strength, intelligence, and advocacy of three Thomasian female candidates. In collaboration with the university’s broadcasting arm Tiger Media Network, the first episode will air on May 2, and its following two episodes will air separately on May 9 and May 16, 2025 via the official Facebook page of UST Tiger TV, the television branch of Tiger Media Network.

Broadcast live to approximately 35,000 Thomasians via UST Tiger TV, Queen of the Arch seeks to champion the empowered Thomasian woman. Per the supervising producer of Queen of the Arch, Allyana Hernandez, the idea for this show came from her passion for pageantry and her admiration for the confidence, intelligence, and grace it brings out in women. She confided, “Growing up in a family that has been involved in pageantry and modeling, I witnessed how these competitions can empower women to discover and showcase their strengths.”

For Hernandez, the journey to the crown begins at the arch, which in itself serves as a symbol of every Thomasian woman’s path to growth, resilience, and success. By putting the spotlight on Thomasian women, the show hopes to celebrate their authenticity while simultaneously inspiring the Thomasian community to pursue their passions. “Every candidate’s path to the crown—a symbol of strength, wisdom, and leadership—starts by embracing the lessons, values, and experiences they gain through the Arch as Thomasians,” she shared. “I hope the show will serve as a groundbreaking platform and truly represent that the journey to the crown begins at the arch.”

The Arch of the Centuries stands at the España side of the campus, serving as a structure that represents history and transformation, and as a gate to the Thomasian experience.

According to the show’s head writer, Ivan Aguinaldo, its candidates will vie to ‘become a true symbol of Thomasian pride,’ a vision that echoes the show’s mission to celebrate womanhood, creative expression, and uplift voices that fully embody the three C’s of the university: commitment, competence, and compassion.

All three candidates are bound to face challenges that test their creativity and grace under pressure. While Thomasians can expect beloved pageantry essentials to appear in the show, such as runway walks and Q&A portions, fresh segments aligned with the sensibilities of the modern age will make their way to television screens all over the university.

Viewers can expect a show that inspires, as stated by Aguinaldo. Beyond the glitz and glamour, the show promises to touch on what it means to wear a crown.

Queen of the Arch is being produced by student-led production house Middle Child Media. Founded in 2023, the production house is notable for having bagged nine awards in BroadQuest 2023, including Broadcast Planner of the Year. It holds itself to values of instilling variety, visibility, and vision in today’s media landscape. With Queen of the Arch, the production house plans to bring purposeful programming to the screen, creating content that is diverse, representative, and forward-thinking.

About Middle Child Media

Middle Child Media is a creative media organization composed of 3rd-year UST AB Communication students committed to produce innovative and unconventional content that challenges traditional storytelling norms. It aims to bring Variety, Visibility, and Vision to the media landscape by crafting engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. 

As a dynamic media group, Middle Child Media collaborates with various institutions, brands, and organizations to amplify unique voices and perspectives. It specializes in multimedia storytelling, event production, and digital campaigns that inspire meaningful conversations and drive social impact. 

#MiddleChildMedia #OnlyOnTigerTV #KasamaCASA

Middle Child Media

MANILA, Philippines – Middle Child Media has officially concluded the broadcast of “Para-Paraan,” a dynamic and informative show created especially for Metro Manila commuters, with a focus on Thomasians. It was produced by third-year Communication students from the University of Santo Tomas’ Faculty of Arts and Letters, in line with the academic requirements of their TV Production course. The show was developed under the mentorship of Assistant Professor Faye M. Abugan, MA, a seasoned media professional. The show provided insights into the city’s complex transportation system under a distinctive game-show format that combined education and entertainment.

Each episode followed three Thomasian challengers as they embarked on a race from the University of Santo Tomas to various key destinations across the metro. Their mission was to determine which route was the fastest, most affordable, and most convenient. The show also featured insights from transportation and infrastructure professionals, which shed light on broader efforts to improve commuter experiences in the Philippines. At its core, Para-Paraan aimed to answer a common yet crucial question: “What is the best way to go from Point A to Point B?”

In its pilot episode, challengers Ynigo Diaz, Jake Caraan, and Chelsea Derla took on the journey to the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) using different modes of public transport: UV Express and e-jeep, LRT, and bus, respectively. The episode also featured expert insights from Ms. Kolyn Gervacio-Calbasa, Senior Corporate Affairs Officer at MWM Terminals, Inc. (PITX), who emphasized the importance of early travel to avoid peak-hour congestion. She also highlighted the direct LRT-1 connection to PITX as a game-changing development in Manila’s public transport system.

The second episode saw all three challengers take on the bustling commuter hotspot of Cubao, which is widely known as ‘the center of the universe’ for its complex network of transit options. Expert insights were provided by Mr. Gabriel Go, Head of the MMDA’s Special Operations Group – Strike Force. Mr. Go emphasized the critical role of pedestrian infrastructure in solving Metro Manila’s traffic issues. He noted safe and accessible sidewalks as a top priority to an effective and inclusive transportation system.

For its final episode, Diaz, Caraan, and Derla set out on a mission to reach Bonifacio Global City (BGC). In adding substance to the episode, Para-Paraan welcomed urban planning expert and Assistant Professor Dr. John C. Ong, PhD., who shared valuable insights into BGC’s urban planning and its emergence as a model for sustainable city development. He explained that in a well-planned city, it is essential to clearly identify where people live, work, and access their daily needs.

The executive producer of its third and final episode, Brianna Valdez, wanted to highlight BGC’s sustainable city planning, such as “its walkable streets and organized system,” because she felt it “improves the commuting experience.” While hurdles like heat and time constraints still persisted during the episode’s production, she noted these challenges made the episode feel “more real and relatable,” calling it “reflective of the everyday struggles and wins of student commuters.”

While the three episodes all end with definitive answers to the question of “What is the best way to go from Point A to Point B?,” the decision of supervising producer Dean Manuel Pinza to showcase three different modes of public transportation per episode allowed the show to explore practical, real-life strategies in commuting the metro and highlight the differences in various modes of transportation. Per Pinza, he wanted the show to highlight accessibility in a bustling metro.

Taking the viewer alongside Diaz, Caraan, and Derla’s journeys also gave way for authenticity. While Para-Paraan may seem light-hearted, it also communicated to viewers the challenges of being a commuter in the metro, such as delays, the weather, and the traffic. These glimpses to commuting exemplify the lived experiences of typical Filipinos. For Thomasians who came from outside the metro, these glimpses may provide some comfort because the show proves commuting in the metro is a shared, challenging experience.

What makes Para-Paraan a resonant show for many Thomasians is its focus on the lived experiences of the people who traverse the streets of Metro Manila daily. The show’s head writer, Jannelle Gelito, also made sure to include a jeepney in all of its episodes due to its ubiquitous nature, especially for students. To her, jeepneys are ‘convenient and essential,’ a sentiment that reflects the sense of Filipino identity many commuters associate with the vehicle.

Through these, the show becomes not only entertaining, but also an affirmation of the cultural significance that public transportation brings into the Filipino identity. In doing so, viewers are encouraged to reimagine Metro Manila to its fullest potential: a metro that is accessible, inclusive, and built around the real needs of the people who live in it.

Para-Paraan’s three episodes are available for replay on the Facebook page of UST Tiger TV.

About Middle Child Media

Middle Child Media is a creative media organization composed of 3rd-year UST AB Communication students committed to produce innovative and unconventional content that challenges traditional storytelling norms. It aims to bring Variety, Visibility, and Vision to the media landscape by crafting engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. 

As a dynamic media group, Middle Child Media collaborates with various institutions, brands, and organizations to amplify unique voices and perspectives. It specializes in multimedia storytelling, event production, and digital campaigns that inspire meaningful conversations and drive social impact. 

#MiddleChildMedia #OnlyOnTigerTV #KasamaCASA

Middle Child Media

MANILA, Philippines – Middle Child Media proudly introduces its highly anticipated Station ID, set to debut on UST Tiger TV. The fresh and dynamic Station ID highlights the essence of the network’s storytelling prowess while celebrating its flagship programs, ‘Para-Paraan’ and ‘Queen of the Arch’—two shows that continue to captivate the Thomasian audience. 

Airing every Friday on UST Tiger TV, Middle Child Media’s latest Station ID embodies its creative vision, showcasing its commitment in producing content that is innovative, relatable, and distinctly Thomasian. Featuring a vibrant montage of ‘Para-Paraan,’ the engaging show that explores student travel hacks, time saving, and commute budget tips, and ‘Queen of the Arch,’ the pageant show that shines a spotlight on inspiring Thomasian women, the Station ID is a testament to Middle Child Media’s dedication to entertain and inform its viewers.

Driving Creativity: The Jeepney in UST 

In a truly rare moment for the University of Santo Tomas, the Station ID brings something unexpected to campus—a jeepney inside the university grounds. This unique addition symbolizes the heart of Filipino culture and Middle Child Media’s dedication to push creative boundaries. The jeepney, a staple of local transportation, represents the journey of every commuter symbolized by the Thomasians in the video, navigating through life with resilience and passion. 

Bringing the vision to life was no easy feat. From conceptualization to execution, the production team faced numerous challenges, yet their dedication never wavered. 

“Seeing this Station ID come to life has been both exhilarating and surreal. Bringing a jeepney inside UST was a challenge in itself, but it became the heart of our Station ID. Every step of the process, from conceptualizing to recording, was a challenge. But this project reminded me of our purpose: variety, visibility, and vision in the media landscape,” said Jada Shantell Galang, Executive Producer of Middle Child Media’s Station ID. 

Beyond just a visual spectacle, the Station ID serves as a deeper reflection of Middle Child Media’s core values and mission. 

“This Station ID represents what Middle Child Media stands for. I hope our audience sees not just a production, but a reflection of their stories, their struggles, and their successes in every frame,” Galang continued. 

Symbolic Shades: Defining Middle Child Media

Thomasians will also notice the distinct color palette worn by the talents in the Station ID—white, light blue, and yellow—which are the official colors of Middle Child Media for COMMTV. These colors emphasize the brand’s identity: white for creativity and innovation, light blue for clarity and vision, and yellow for energy and passion. Together, they encapsulate Middle Child Media’s mission to deliver vibrant and meaningful content to its audience.

“Creating our Station ID came from within ourselves; it took a combination of creativity, passion, and eagerness to reach the silver lining. It did take a village to make the station ID, and we are happy because the outcome brought a sea of blue and yellow to the whole university. We ensured that our Station ID embodied what Middle Child Media is all about,” said Alfred Aron Malit, Director of Middle Child Media Station ID. 

The Station ID will serve as a visual signature of Middle Child Media, reinforcing its brand across all platforms and setting the tone for its exciting lineup of shows. As it makes its way onto UST Tiger TV, students, faculty, and viewers alike can expect a fresh take on Thomasian storytelling—one that reflects creativity, passion, and the pulse of the UST community. 

For the latest updates and information, follow Middle Child Media’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

About Middle Child Media 

Middle Child Media is a creative media organization composed of 3rd-year UST AB Communication students committed to produce innovative and unconventional content that challenges traditional storytelling norms. It aims to bring Variety, Visibility, and Vision to the media landscape by crafting engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. 

As a dynamic media group, Middle Child Media collaborates with various institutions, brands, and organizations to amplify unique voices and perspectives. It specializes in multimedia storytelling, event production, and digital campaigns that inspire meaningful conversations and drive social impact. 

#MiddleChildMedia #OnlyOnTigerTV #KasamaCASA

MANILA, Philippines – Middle Child Media, a growing creative powerhouse, launches two new shows, Para-paraan and Queen of the Arch, breaking storytelling conventions. In collaboration with Tiger Media Network, UST’s official broadcaster, these shows strive to captivate, educate, and entertain the Thomasian audience.

Dedicated to purposeful storytelling, Middle Child Media pushes boundaries with shows that entertain, educate, and empower Thomasians through innovative content. Para-paraan provides valuable insights on navigating Metro Manila’s transportation system, equipping Thomasians with practical knowledge to enhance their daily commutes. Meanwhile, Queen of the Arch celebrates the resilience and brilliance of Thomasian women, showcasing their talents, intelligence, and advocacies.

By collaborating with Tiger Media Network, Middle Child Media connects with 46,000 Thomasians, delivering high-quality content to its audience. Para-paraan and Queen of the Arch showcase Thomasians’ diverse experiences, strengthening Middle Child Media’s mission of Variety, Visibility, and Vision.

Para-paraan: Roadmap to a Smarter Travel

Metro Manila commuting is an adventure, and Para-paraan helps Thomasians navigate the city’s intricate and ever-changing transportation system with ease. This game-style show features challengers betting on the fastest and most cost-efficient routes to reach their destinations, starting from UST. By exploring various transportation options, estimated travel times, and costs, the show helps students confidently navigate the metro.

“Para-Paraan lives through the production house’s goal of creating purposeful programming. As we constantly face issues in the transportation sector at large, we want to create a show that focuses on the lived experiences of the people that navigate the country’s complex transportation system daily. As lighthearted the show’s premise is, it features stories of struggle, adaptation, and resilience in mobility. We want to spark conversations, challenge perspectives, and help Thomasians navigate the metro, one stop at a time,” said by the Supervising Producer of Para-paraan, Dean Manuel Pinza.

By showcasing different transportation options, estimated travel times, and costs, Para-paraan ensures that Thomasians are well equipped to explore the city. The show will air on UST Tiger TV on March 28, 2025, April 4, 2025, and April 11, 2025

Queen of the Arch: The Ultimate Thomasian Queen

Queen of the Arch showcases intelligence and grace in a three-episode pageant, following three Thomasian women competing for the title. These women, representing different faculties, will face challenges that assess their confidence, creativity, and advocacy for essential and meaningful causes.

“I’ve always admired the strength, confidence, and grace pageantry brings out in women. With Queen of the Arch, I wanted to create a show that celebrates the empowered Thomasian female. The journey to the crown begins at the arch—a symbol of every Thomasian woman’s path to growth, resilience, and success. I am beyond excited to bring this vision to life for the Thomasian community and for everyone to watch,” said by the Supervising Producer of Queen of the Arch, Allyana Hernandez.

While championing their beauties and advocacies, only one will stand out, earning the title, the crown, and the prestigious prizes. This show will air exclusively on UST Tiger TV on May 2, 2025, May 9, 2025, and May 16, 2025. With Para-paraan and Queen of the Arch, Middle Child Media continues to push boundaries and set new standards. These shows use bold and engaging storytelling to inform, inspire, and entertain, starting a new era of meaningful programs for Thomasians.

For the latest updates and information, follow Middle Child Media’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

About Middle Child Media

Middle Child Media is a creative media organization composed of 3rd-year UST AB Communication students committed to produce innovative and unconventional content that challenges traditional storytelling norms. It aims to bring Variety, Visibility, and Vision to the media landscape by crafting engaging narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

As a dynamic media group, Middle Child Media collaborates with various institutions, brands, and organizations to amplify unique voices and perspectives. It specializes in multimedia storytelling, event production, and digital campaigns that inspire meaningful conversations and drive social impact.

#MiddleChildMedia #OnlyOnTigerTV #KasamaCASA

Sharlene Pineda

READ – With women’s month coming into full bloom, women’s stories must be highlighted. One of these themes is menstruation, which has always been a large part of a woman’s life. Girls have their own experiences when it comes to menstruation, especially in getting one’s first period. Some are filled with excitement with the thought of entering womanhood, while some are anxious at the thought of giving up their childhood. A treasure chest could explode at the amount of what-ifs, superstitions, and stigmas around menstruation, and all of these things could be scary for a child. These stigmas only create unwanted anxiety and fear for girls, when in reality, periods are a normal occurrence and should not be taboo at all. 

This March, people fuel conversations around womanhood with the celebration of Women’s Month. Film and media can be a great way to highlight these themes, especially as these mediums allow people to see these messages through the art of visual storytelling. 

That said, March is also the month of Puregold CinePanalo film festival’s theatrical run, and alongside the powerful roster of creative short films and full-length films is Taympers, a short film created by PUP student filmmaker Naiah Mendoza.

Taympers is a film that revolves around a child, Yumi (Atasha Eve Franco), who grows anxious as she sees her older sister Chloe (Miel Espinoza), going through sudden pain. Accompanied by Yumi’s best friend, Heidi (Amber Santaolaya), and their grandmother Linda (Elizabeth Luntayao Reginaldo), Yumi is introduced to the concept of menstruation. Throughout the film, the audience gets to see a girl getting her first period through the perspective of her younger sister. Yumi approaches menstruation with much anxiety, especially as she watches her sister go through foreign and seemingly painful changes. 

Seeing Taympers, people are also reminded of the community women have built, with shared experiences as its foundation. The film reinstates this as Yumi, Chloe, and their grandmother Linda show genuine support to each other as Chloe goes through her first period. From elder figures to female friends, women have fostered a community with a caring nature.

At its core, the film presses on the need for more discussions on women’s sexual reproductive health and all it entails–from the importance of free and accessible healthcare for women, debunking stigmas around one’s first period, and the importance of making women’s healthcare and menstruation a conversation normalized and free of judgement. This makes Taympers a film filled with heart, innocence, and a true love for womanhood.

Eli Dacuma

Quezon City, Philippines — Aubrey Soriano’s Si Nadia at ang kanyang mga Kuro-Kuro kicks off its Puregold Cinepanalo Student Shorts Screening at the Gateway Mall 2 last March 14.

The short film follows 16-year-old Nadia as she journeys through her youth, personal connections, and relentless walks to find her identity as she grapples with finishing her article for the school publication.

Starring Yani Villarosa as Nadia, the unique coming-out story reflects the fears and struggles of queer individuals in the Philippines. Moreover, it highlights other narratives on LGBTQIA+ representation in the country.

Villarosa also received a nomination for the Panalong Aktres (Best Actress) award for her role.

Si Nadia at ang kanyang mga Kuro-Kuro joins the Cluster B of short films, alongside Champ Green, Daeaura, Checkmate, Papunta Ka Pa Lang, Naka-Bounce Na Ako, and 1… 2… Strike!!!.

Take a look at Si Nadia at ang kanyang mga Kuro-Kuro’s review made by Eduksine’s team, available on Letterboxd:

Marl’s Review (Batch 7)

The film adeptly addresses significant social issues, notably journalists’ rights to free expression and the empowerment of women, challenging traditional stereotypes. Nadia’s relationship with her mother adds emotional depth, illustrating unconditional love. Yani’s exceptional performance captures youthful humor, engaging the audience through expressive actions and breaking the fourth wall. The film’s nuanced storytelling and strong character development create a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.

Catch our editorial news writer and her shenanigans in Gateway Mall 2 until March 25 through these schedules:

March 23 (Sun)
Cinema 16 – 12:30 PM
Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

March 24 (Mon)
Cinema 16 – 9:00 PM
Cinema 18 – 3:00 PM

March 25 (Tue)
Cinema 16 – 5:30 PM
Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

You can also follow Nadia in the following social media accounts for future updates:

Facebook: Si Nadia at kanyang mga Kuro-Kuro
Instagram: @nadia.films

EdukSine Studios is an official media partner of Si Nadia at ang kanyang mga Kuro-Kuro for the 2025 Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival.

Sharlene Pineda

Quezon City, Philippines – On March 14, 2025, EdukSine Studios went to the Puregold CinePanalo 2025 film festival at Gateway Cineplex 18. The team watched Taympers, a short film written and directed by Naiah Mendoza under Tasá Productions. 

Starring Atasha Eve Franco (Yumi), Miel Espinoza (Chloe), Amber Santaolaya (Heidi), and Elizabeth Luntayao Reginaldo (Linda), the film revolves around Yumi’s perspective on her older sister, Chloe, experiencing pain as she gets her first period. With womanhood being one of the central themes of the short film, Taympers is a must-watch this women’s month. 

Take a look at the Taympers review made by Eduksine’s team, available on Letterboxd:

Amira’s Review (Batch 4)

The most-awaited Puregold Cinepanalo Film Festival is finally here! Kicking off the Student Shorts A Cluster is “Taympers,” a short film that takes us on a beautifully nostalgic ride back to one of the most nerve-wracking moments in a young girl’s life—her first period.

From the very first frame, “Taympers” effortlessly pulls you into its warm yet chaotic world, filled with the innocence, anxiety, and excitement of coming-of-age experiences. It masterfully captures that raw, overwhelming feeling of transitioning from childhood to adolescence, when something as natural as menstruation feels like an earth-shattering event. Watching this as someone in my mid-20s, I couldn’t help but be transported back to the time when I was confused, scared, and hyper-aware of every little change in my body.

The film perfectly encapsulates the mixture of emotions—curiosity, embarrassment, and even a little pride—that comes with this milestone. It also brilliantly highlights the way myths and traditions shape our perception of womanhood. Who else remembers being told “Bawal maligo!” or “Dapat umupo sa ikatlong baitang ng hagdan para hindi masakit ang tiyan”? And, of course, the infamous “Ipahid ang first blood sa mukha para kuminis ang balat”! It’s these tiny yet deeply ingrained superstitions that make the film so relatable and authentic, especially for Filipino women.

One of the standout aspects of “Taympers” is its overall aesthetic and vibe. The cinematography, production design, and color grading all scream “kikay,” perfectly mirroring the youthful, vibrant, and slightly chaotic essence of the protagonist’s world. The youngest sibling, in particular, adds a delightful contrast, bringing comedic relief and a playful energy that balances out the more serious themes. The film doesn’t just tell a story; it immerses you in it, making you feel every awkward yet beautiful moment as if you were experiencing it all over again.

With its compelling storytelling, relatable themes, and a perfect blend of humor and heart, “Taympers” is more than just a short film—it’s an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. A definite must-watch at the festival!

Taympers is being screened under the Puregold CinePanalo Students Shorts A Category alongside five student short films from March 14-March 25. Read below for Shorts A Cluster’s screening schedule and Puregold CinePanalo 2025’s ticket prices. 

Shorts A Cluster Screening Schedule

March 16 (Sunday)

Cinema 16 – 5:30 PM | Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

March 17 (Monday)

Cinema 16 – 3:00 PM | Cinema 18 – 5:30 PM

March 18 (Tuesday)

Cinema 11 – 5:00 PM (Gala) | Cinema 16 – 12:30 PM | Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

March 19 (Wednesday)

Cinema 16 – 9:00 PM | Cinema 18 – 12:30 PM

March 20 (Thursday)

Cinema 16 – 5:30 PM | Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

March 21 (Friday)

Cinema 16 – 3:00 PM | Cinema 18 – 5:30 PM

March 22 (Saturday)

Cinema 16 – 12:30 PM | Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

March 23 (Sunday)

Cinema 16 – 9:00 PM | Cinema 18 – 12:30 PM

March 24 (Monday)

Cinema 16 – 5:30 PM | Cinema 18 – 9:00 PM

March 25 (Tuesday)

Cinema 16 – 3:00 PM | Cinema 18 – 5:30 PM

Puregold CinePanalo 2025 Ticket Prices

₱250 – Regular Ticket

₱200 – Discount for Students, PWD, Senior Citizens, and Aling Puring Members

₱2,000 – Festival Pass

READ – On March 2, 2025, Eduksine went to PETA Theater Center to watch Jun Lana’s Anino sa Likod ng Buwan, a play directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio. Organized by The IdeaFirst Company, the play is performed by acting powerhouses Elora Españo, Martin del Rosario, and Ross Pesigan, alongside their exemplary understudies Denise Esteban, Edward Benosa, and Vincent Pajara. The one-act play focuses on the complex web of lies and games occurring between Emma and Nardo, a couple forced out of their homes by heavy militarization, and Joel, their “nice” military friend. 

Take a look at the Anino sa Likod ng Buwan reviews made by Eduksine’s team:

Sharlene’s Review (Batch 11):

March opened with the theatrical run of Jun Lana’s Anino sa Likod ng Buwan. With the play directed by Tuxqs Rutaqio, the show runs for an hour and forty five minutes, starring Elora Españo (Emma), Martin Del Rosario (Joel), and Ross Pesigan (Nardo). Set in the 1990s, when people were forced by heavy militarization to flee their homes, husband-and-wife Emma and Nardo find friendship in a soldier, Joel. What seems to be a mundane night of cards ends up being filled with the craziest of twists, making viewers hold their breath through scenes packed with tension, sexuality, and betrayal all at once. 

The power of set design truly heightened the experience for the audience. From the large tree that looms above Emma and Nardo’s frail, wooden house, to the accurate resemblance of the stage to the film–the art direction was simply exquisite. It makes the viewers voyeuristic as they take a look into the characters’ lives from their seats. The fact that the audience first sees Emma bathing, naked and alone, presses onto this intruding persona. The sound also married perfectly into the play, adding depth to emotion-heavy scenes. Viewers were at the edge of their seats as Emma and Joel’s forbidden relationship unraveled; as Emma told about hearing Ka Samuel, her father, hidden in an underground bunker; and as Joel drew a gun on Emma and Nardo as he confessed to knowing the truth–that the two aren’t married, and that he never loved Emma. All of these revelations were accompanied by scores that rose at the perfect time, making the play all the more impactful. 

Everything is about strategy, as Joel claimed, and it presses on the metaphor of their webbed lives. From day one, it has been a card game between the three characters, between the military and the insurgency. With the lunar eclipse, a split second in the dark, their motives and inner desires would come out. The actors were able to translate this tremendously through their performances. 

Ross Pesigan was able to bring both bursts of humor and gripping dialogues to the stage as Nardo. In a story sewn with deep secrets and grave themes, he is able to move the audience with his portrayal of empathy, conviction, and love for the country. Aside from his moving performance, Pesigan is also able to make the audience laugh because of his comedic timing, proving his strong charisma.

Martin del Rosario commands the stage in his theater debut. He is able to exude Joel’s masculinity, with a deep voice that booms throughout the walls of the theater pairing perfectly with his macho body acting. Del Rosario shows the chillingly violent side of his character as well as his faux friendliness, making the audience nervous at his unpredictable nature. 

Elora Españo wins the audience with her exemplary portrayal of Emma. Her acting in the last sequences were one-of-a-kind, from her last exchange with Joel to standing below the ashes of a kapre’s cigarette. Españo exhibits Emma’s braveness, femininity, and vulnerability with such precision. In her, the audience sees the intricacies of womanhood, what it feels to be a woman amidst a war, and what it feels to fight and to love. 

Anino sa Likod ng Buwan doesn’t shy away from explicitly telling the story of war and its steam, of comrades and enemies, of women and her truths. Through its cast’s groundbreaking performances and its story’s fearlessness in mirroring social truths, the play is a true class act.

Cielo’s Review (Batch 11):

Tuxqs Rutaquio’s theatrical adaptation of Jun Lana’s Anino sa Likod ng Buwan is a raw, immersive experience that thrives on unpredictability, intimacy, and quiet devastation. The play follows Emma (Elora Españo), Joel (Martin Del Rosario), and Nardo (Ross Pesigan) as they navigate survival, morality, and personal turmoil amid the turbulence of war. What starts as an uneasy gathering spirals into a psychological drama, unraveling truths too sharp to ignore.

From the opening—a stark, unflinching moment of vulnerability—the play commands attention. The actors’ performances are nothing short of gripping, their chemistry palpable and their stage business seamlessly executed. Españo’s portrayal of Emma is both commanding and haunting, wielding her femininity as both a shield and a weapon. Del Rosario delivers a nuanced Joel, balancing charm with an unsettling edge, while Pesigan’s Nardo serves as a mirror of innocence lost, his presence grounding the chaos with an air of quiet despair.

The set traps the audience in their world, thick with secrets and unspoken grief. Even from the sidelines, the lighting shapes the unease, blurring the line between intimacy and entrapment. Every element breathes life into a world where morality flickers like a dying flame.

Nangungutang para sa prinsipyo.

Is survival itself a betrayal?

Salamin ng kalungkutan.

In war, is there anything left unbroken?

May immoral pa ba sa gerang ‘to?

Or is morality the first thing to burn?

Emma then moves in the direction of the tree, where the kapre’s cigarette burns like a fading ember, a ghost of something greater, or a whisper of myth. A doubt remains once it eventually falls, smothered by the wind, a question lingers: was it ever real? Or simply another shadow behind the moon, trapped between truth and survival, between myth and reality, like Emma, and.. us?

For Tickets and Information

Anino sa Likod ng Buwan will continue its theatrical play at the PETA Theater Center until March 23, 2025. Catch the full experience of Anino Sa Likod ng Buwan and grab your tickets now at https://ticket2me.net/event/21994?ref=KEVIN_TUBIERON. For more information, visit The IdeaFirst Company’s Facebook page. The play is strictly for adults only.