QC to recognize MMFF’s ‘most gender-sensitive’ films

MANILA, Philippines - The most gender-sensitive Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries this year will receive as much as P100,000 from the Quezon City government, the Quezon City Film Development Council said yesterday.

The selection of the most gender-sensitive movie is an annual city undertaking to give tribute to filmmakers who use the power of filmmaking to promote gender equality and awareness of gender issues among moviegoers, the council said.

To encourage filmmakers to produce gender-sensitive films, the council will grant P100,000 for the most gender-sensitive film entry in the MMFF (mainstream category); P50,000 for independent full-length film (new wave category); and P25,000 for student short film.

The screening committee, composed of representatives from different sectors of society, has reviewed all MMFF entries including the nine mainstream films, five new wave films, and 10 student short films. 

Among the members of the selection committee are: Fr. Nicasio Cruz from the academe; women and gender advocate Thelma Magcuro; STAR columnist Philip Cu-Unjieng; gender advocate and retired general Yolanda Tanigue; and film director Jose Javier Reyes.

The winners will be announced during the MMFF awards night on Dec. 27. Aside from the cash prize, the winner will also receive trophies made by Sandra Torrijos.

This year’s MMFF mainstream entries include “El Presidente” by Scenema Concept International; “One More Try” by Star Cinema; “Shake, Rattle and Roll 14” by Regal Films; “Si Agimat, Si Enteng Kabisote, at Si Ako” by Octoarts Films, M-Zet Productions, Imus Productions, APT Entertainment, and GMA Films; “Sisterakas” by Star Cinema and Viva Films; “Sossy Problems” by GMA Films; “The Strangers” by Quantum Productions; and “Thy Womb” by Centerstage Productions.