Film enthusiasts and students from various schools packed the Ayala Malls Capitol Central cinema for the opening day of the 2nd Bacolod Film Festival (BFF) on Thursday, Nov. 27, where audiences enjoyed free screenings of the eight shortlisted short film finalists.
“What truly stands out is the quality and diversity of the films. The stories being presented are exceptionally well-crafted. They don’t just entertain, they tackle issues that are deeply relevant to our culture and community,” Cheny Caunga, a fourth-year Mass Communication student, said.
“There are films that make you feel the excitement of romance, others that move you to tears, make you laugh, and even inspire and motivate you,” said Caunga, who highly recommended the films as worth watching.
“Seeing their passion and talent come alive on the big screen is truly inspiring and a proud moment for the local film community,” she added in a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office.
The opening ceremony was led by Mayor Greg Gasataya, joined by Councilors Em Ang and Jason Villarosa.
Also in attendance were BFF Festival Director Tanya Lopez, BFF Coordinator and Secretary to the Mayor Jose Marty Go, Department of Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Head Mae Llamas, and distinguished film industry personalities serving as jurors.
Gasataya commended the Negros Cultural Foundation, BFF organizing committee, and local filmmakers for producing exceptional work amid recent calamities that hit the city.
“A lot has happened lately. We experienced flooding, a blaze, and an earthquake but despite all of these, we made it a point to push through, and we give credit where it is due,” Gasataya said, reaffirming the city government’s support for local filmmakers and commitment to developing Bacolod as a national creative hub.
“It is necessary for the city to provide the needed support to develop our local filmmakers who continue to overcome obstacles in producing quality films,” the mayor added, noting that watching movies was one of his favorite college pastimes.
He said “BFF means Best Friends Forever, and so BFF in Bacolod should be forever.”
Established last year through City Ordinance No. 1061 authored by Councilor Ang, the festival has evolved from a dream to a reality, the press release said.
“The Bacolod Film Festival is more than just a showcase of films. It is a celebration of our stories, our diverse cultures, and the unique experiences that shaped our identity,” Ang said.
Free screenings of local filmmakers’ and artists’ works are also ongoing at SM City Bacolod and Cinematique Centre Negros.
Public screenings run until Saturday, with the Awards Night set for the same day at SM City Bacolod Cinema 1.*