The film council kicks off intensive film labs for rising directors.
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has officially announced the 20 semi-finalists for this year’s Sine Kabataan 2026, spotlighting a diverse lineup of young filmmakers from across the country.
In a statement, the FDCP said the shortlisted projects will undergo a series of film labs and workshops aimed at refining their storytelling and technical skills. A pitching session will follow, where 10 finalists will be selected to receive production grants for their short films.
Here are the 20 semi-finalists and their respective projects:
• A Dead Man’s Genesis by Cyra Dematawaran
• Abo at Abo (安保 阿母) by Shin Okajima
• Asa Mutugpa ang Pag Lupad-Lupad by Emmanuel Pamaylaon
• Bagay Nga Waya Nahambay by John Victor dela Torre
• Baktas by John Paulo Jorge
• Bato’ng Bunga by Elj Seth Gyane Tababa
• Deng Kekaming Sampaga by Erin Daniele Julao
• Hindi Pa Nag-aagahan si Tau by John Laurian Pelias
• Ikalulunod Ko Ba ang Paglangoy by Lawrence Balingasa
• Inday’s Ark by Alex Loygos
• Kurita by Zechri Jacob Alvarez
• Night Market of Lost Things by Gwyneth Rose Aba-a
• Piyesa by Ryan Angelo Ugalde
• Precious’ Plant Project by Bea Bianca Allado
• Sa Likod ng Bawat Ulap sa Bundok by Ma. Angelica Amistoso
• Sa Tunga Sang Langit Kag Kahoy by Rio John Elenterio
• Si Flor, Sa Huling Mayo by Sunshine Bernardo
• Titser, Titser! by Franchesca Grace Pagatpat
• Under the Mango Tree by Jedd Deezle Catapang
• Yada Na Ta Busag Nga Vanni! by Giomer Gulferic
The FDCP congratulated the semi-finalists and wished them luck as they move forward in the next stage of the program, which continues to champion emerging voices in Philippine cinema.
The FDCP has shortlisted 20 promising young filmmakers for Sine Kabataan 2026, moving them into intensive film labs before the final selection of 10 production grant recipients.
