Lav Diaz’s ‘Makikiraan Po’ heading to 31st Busan filmfest 

Producer Bianca Balbuena-Liew confirms film’s Asian premiere alongside masterclass and second feature in South Korea.

Acclaimed Filipino auteur Lav Diaz makes his way to South Korea as his latest historical drama, “Makikiraan Po” (“Let Us Through, Dear Ancestors”), has been officially selected for inclusion at the 31st edition of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).

Celebrated film producer Bianca Balbuena-Liew expressed her excitement over the project’s participation, highlighting the strong bond between the festival and the director. “The Busan International Film Festival has always been supportive of Lav’s work and he has an audience there who really watches his films. We are happy to be back in Busan again,” Balbuena-Liew told radar Entertainment. 

“I’m bringing Lav with me to the Q&A. We’re also preparing a masterclass for him there. The festival is excited to host him,” she shared.

Set in 1617, “Makikiraan Po” highlights the human cost of Spanish colonization in the Philippines. The story follows Padre Enciso (Bart Guingona), a ruthless friar who forces his young son Dungwen (Christian Bables) to lead a dangerous 50-kilometer transport of church marble through hostile terrain. Meanwhile, a native healer (Isabel Sandoval) defies colonial rule to protect indigenous animist traditions.

Balbuena-Liew also noted the milestone presence of another project, adding, “We are happy to have two films there: ‘Makikiraan Po’ for its Asian premiere and ‘Filipiñana’ for its Korean premiere and it’s probably the 25th festival of the film.”

As widely recognized as the largest and most influential film festival in Asia, the BIFF continues to serve as a vital global launchpad and bridge for Asian cinema to reach international audiences. 

The 31st edition of the BIFF runs from October 6 to 15, at the Busan Cinema Center and venues across the city.

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