SineBalangay

26/09/2026

🎬 FROM THE FILM LAB TO THE FESTIVAL

Three days of learning, creating, pitching, and bringing stories to life culminated in a moment of celebration as the SineBalangay Film Lab 2026 officially announced the 10 short film concepts selected as Official Entries to the SineBalangay Independent Film Festival 2027.

From the first page of the script to the final pitch, these emerging filmmakers have taken their stories one step closer to the big screen. Their concepts will now move forward into production as they prepare to bring their visions to audiences in February 2027.

THE 10 OFFICIAL ENTRIES

1. Sanctum - Rafael Ian Azaraga
2. Hypokrites! - Ian Alfaras
3. Oyayi - Jhorein Doquilla
4. Ang Nalimutang Ako - Mane Talibong
5. From the Top - Kyle Ong Yiu
6. Lineman - Roland Victor Fortun
7. See You in Court - Ann Therese Ty
8. Andam na si Lily - Ram Estael
9. Magabon - Khukei Tutaan
10. Simon - John Emmanuel Abunda

Congratulations to all the filmmakers and participants who shared their stories, took creative risks, and embraced the process throughout the Film Lab.

This is only the beginning.

The stories have been chosen.
The cameras are waiting.

The journey to SineBalangay 2027 begins now.

26/09/2026

DAY 3 | From Storyboard to Screen

The SineBalangay Film Lab 2026 wrapped up its third day as participants brought their ideas one step closer to the screen.

The day began with the presentation of their 3-Shot Sequence assignments, where participants explored visual storytelling through composition, continuity, movement, and cinematic intent.

The learning continued beyond the presentation as they took part in a hands-on shooting activity, translating their 3-shot sequences into actual footage and experiencing firsthand the process of directing and cinematography.

From planning the shot to calling “Action!” Day 3 focused on turning creative concepts into moving images.

26/09/2026

Day 2 of the SineBalangay Film Lab 2027 took our filmmakers deeper into Directing and Cinematography, guided by acclaimed filmmaker Arbi Barbarona.

From translating a script into a visual language to shaping performances, framing, movement, composition, and atmosphere, the participants explored how a director sees—and how cinematography transforms that vision into images that speak.

More than a workshop, the Film Lab is a space where stories are challenged, refined, and given the courage to take shape.

24/09/2026

DAY 1 | SineBalangay Film Lab 2026

Stories begin with an idea—and on Day 1 of the SineBalangay Film Lab 2026, our aspiring filmmakers took the first step toward transforming those ideas into compelling stories for the screen.

We were honored to have filmmaker and mentor Arnel Mardoquio lead Day 1 of the Film Lab with his session on Scriptwriting for Short Film. From developing ideas and characters to building narrative structure and finding a story's heart, participants explored the essential elements of writing a short film.

More than just learning the craft, Day 1 was about discovering the stories that deserve to be told and finding the courage to bring them to life.

Stories that transcend boundaries.

23/09/2026

23/09/2026

22/09/2026

🎬 SINEBALANGAY FILM LAB 2026
September 23–25, 2026 | Butuan City

Stories that Transcend Boundaries.

The journey begins as SineBalangay Film Lab 2026 brings together emerging filmmakers for three days of intensive learning, storytelling, and creative development.

Guiding this year’s participants are two accomplished filmmakers:

🎥 Arnel Mardoquio — Scriptwriting
🎬 Arbi Barbarona — Directing & Cinematography

Through hands-on workshops, discussions, and creative sessions, participants will develop their stories and deepen their understanding of the filmmaking process—from the written page to the screen.

📅 September 23–25, 2026
📍 3rd Floor Conference Room, Sangguniang Panlungsod Building, City Hall Complex, Butuan City

From stories rooted in our communities to stories that reach beyond them, this Film Lab is a space where filmmakers can explore new perspectives, strengthen their craft, and discover the possibilities of cinema.

Because stories can cross borders, cultures, and perspectives.

🎞️ SineBalangay Independent Film Festival of Butuan City
Stories that Transcend Boundaries.