Alternative media gets spotlight with Noel Ferrer’s new “Level Up” Awards

The initiative aims to support platforms fighting disinformation while Ferrer continues his work across music, film, and media education.

Radio and TV host Noel Ferrer is formalizing his long-running advocacy for responsible, progressive communication with the launch of the “Noel Ferrer LEVEL UP Alternative Media Awards.” The inaugural edition is set to be held on December 17 during the Gawad Tanglaw Awards, where Ferrer is also this year’s Natatanging Tanglaw ng Sining at Kultura awardee.

Ferrer said the new prize was created in response to the shifting media environment, one increasingly challenged by misinformation and disinformation. “In today’s media landscape, it’s refreshing to see alternative media platforms that dare to challenge the status quo,” he noted, adding that the awards aim to highlight individuals and institutions that advance truth, justice, and social change through communication.

Recognizing liberating, progressive media

According to Ferrer, the awards will honor platforms that “give voice to the voiceless, expose systemic injustices, and inspire collective action.” This year’s first set of honorees reflects that mission:

• “Facts First” by Christian Esguerra
• “KC After Hours” by Karmina Constantino
• “Altermidya,” headed by Inday Espina-Varona

Special trophies for the awardees were designed by artist Leeroy New.

What’s expected of the awardees

Ferrer said winners will be invited to deliver papers or presentations at a separate convocation. These talks will allow awardees to share insights and experiences that may “inspire and empower audiences to trust and support alternative media platforms” while helping shape a more transparent and accountable media ecosystem.

Goals and long-term vision

The initiative is anchored on three central goals: promoting media education and literacy, encouraging critical thinking and media activism, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. Eventually, Ferrer hopes to broaden support for alternative media initiatives that uphold social justice and human rights, while also celebrating the role of entertainment, arts, and culture in driving social change.

The award’s official tagline captures its essence: “Exposing Truth. Inspiring Change.”

Looking ahead

Ferrer revealed that next year’s plan includes forming an Entertainment Journalists Guild, which will be supported and accredited by the Film Academy of the Philippines. The guild is expected to strengthen networks among entertainment reporters and further elevate standards within the industry.

The launch of the new award comes on the heels of a busy stretch for Ferrer. He recently wrapped the 8th Pinoy Playlist Music Festival (PPMF) at the BGC Arts Center. He serves as one of the festival’s curators alongside National Artist Ryan Cayabyab, Moy Ortiz, and Bonifacio Art Foundation head Maribel Garcia.

Even before the final notes of PPMF faded, Ferrer had already shifted gears to another major cultural undertaking: preparations for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), now marking its 51st edition.

MMFF gears up for a fresh, more engaging edition

“For this 51st edition, we are blessed to have very respected and awarded directors with film entries this year,” Ferrer said. He added that a key new feature is the MMFF Executive Committee’s decision to sponsor the premiere nights of all entries, each followed by talkback sessions to encourage deeper audience engagement.

“I have always pushed for and supported efforts towards better film appreciation and education,” he noted, saying the festival intends to create a more interactive viewing experience for Filipino moviegoers.

A musical birthday release

Amid the festival rush, Ferrer is also preparing a personal milestone. Today, his birthday, he will release his interpretation of the classic ballad “Photograph”—originally recorded by Ariel Rivera, composed by Nori Villena, and arranged by Paulo Zarate of Studio Z. The track will be available on Spotify, Amazon, Apple Music, and Deezer.

To celebrate the release, Ferrer is inviting friends, colleagues, and followers to share photos with him online. “Do you have a photograph of or with me?” he asked. Participants are encouraged to post these on December 11 using the hashtag #NoelFerrerPHOTOGRAPH.

The photo deemed the best entry will win P10,000, an overnight stay at Hilton Manila Newport, and a gift certificate to Empress Dining Palace in BGC. All submitted photos may also be included in the music video for the song.

 

 

In today’s media landscape, it’s refreshing to see alternative media platforms that dare to challenge the status quo.

Noel Ferrer

 

 

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