ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE
Advocates Philippines
Filipinana Shines At Sundance With Creative Vision Award
Photo credit: Sundance Film Festival 2026
In a proud moment for Philippine cinema, Filipiñana took home the World Cinema Dramatic Special Jury Award for Creative Vision at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah — one of the world’s premier showcases for independent films.
The feature, written and directed by Rafael Manuel in his debut, expands on his acclaimed 2020 short of the same name. It tells the story of Isabel, a young “tee girl” working at an upscale country club, who becomes drawn to Dr. Palanca, the club’s powerful president. As Isabel navigates the manicured world of the golf club, she begins to uncover hidden tensions and secrets beneath the polished surface, exploring themes of identity, class, and social structure in the Philippines.
The Sundance jury praised the film for its striking visual storytelling and sensitivity to setting, highlighting how Manuel creates a world where tension quietly simmers beneath everyday life.
Filipiñana has also been selected for the 76th Berlin International Film Festival in the Perspectives section, marking its European debut.
The film stars Jorrybell Agoto as Isabel, with a talented ensemble including Carmen Castellanos, Teroy Guzman, and Isabel Sicat. Its blend of compelling performances, precise cinematography, and an evocative score underscores the strength of Filipino storytelling on the global stage.
Manuel, whose short version of Filipiñana won the Silver Bear Jury Prize at the 70th Berlinale, said the Sundance recognition represents a milestone for Filipino filmmakers seeking to share their voices with the world.
With screenings and festival appearances continuing, Filipiñana is more than an award-winning film — it is sparking conversation about social realities, history, and the complex layers that lie beneath familiar spaces.
The feature, written and directed by Rafael Manuel in his debut, expands on his acclaimed 2020 short of the same name. It tells the story of Isabel, a young “tee girl” working at an upscale country club, who becomes drawn to Dr. Palanca, the club’s powerful president. As Isabel navigates the manicured world of the golf club, she begins to uncover hidden tensions and secrets beneath the polished surface, exploring themes of identity, class, and social structure in the Philippines.
The Sundance jury praised the film for its striking visual storytelling and sensitivity to setting, highlighting how Manuel creates a world where tension quietly simmers beneath everyday life.
Filipiñana has also been selected for the 76th Berlin International Film Festival in the Perspectives section, marking its European debut.
The film stars Jorrybell Agoto as Isabel, with a talented ensemble including Carmen Castellanos, Teroy Guzman, and Isabel Sicat. Its blend of compelling performances, precise cinematography, and an evocative score underscores the strength of Filipino storytelling on the global stage.
Manuel, whose short version of Filipiñana won the Silver Bear Jury Prize at the 70th Berlinale, said the Sundance recognition represents a milestone for Filipino filmmakers seeking to share their voices with the world.
With screenings and festival appearances continuing, Filipiñana is more than an award-winning film — it is sparking conversation about social realities, history, and the complex layers that lie beneath familiar spaces.
Feb 5, 2026
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