MANILA, Philippines - Talent manager Arnold Vegafria was invited to be one of the jurors at the recently-held Soho New York International Film Festival at the Sunshine Cinema, New York City.
He holds the distinction of being the only Asian in the jurors’ lineup, and is also the first Filipino to have been given the same honor. His extensive experience as a talent manager, concert/television and film producer and advertising impresario ranked among the key factors that qualified him as one of this year’s esteemed jurors. He heads his own advertising firm, which has spearheaded the ad campaigns of some of the country’s top lifestyle brands.
Arnold was the producer of Pitik Bulag, directed by Gil Portes, which qualified as the country’s official entry and eventually won second place in the first Soho International Film Festival two years ago.
“It’s an honor to represent the Philippines in this prestigious cultural affair,” Arnold says. “With the critical success of our local filmmakers and directors from recent years, the whole world is watching us intently now, and it’s inspiring to know that we continue to reap the rewards of our filmmakers’ immeasurable talents.”
Pinoy entries in the filmfest were Senior Year directed by Jerrold Tarog and Ang Sayaw ng Dalawang Kaliwang Paa by Alvin Yapan.