Spearheaded by the Academic Film Society (AFS) of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) proudly participated in the first-ever Film Education Convention (FilmEC), held on September 17-18 at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

The event brought together film students, educators, and industry professionals to discuss and advance film education in the country.

In his welcome address, FDCP Chairperson and CEO Dir. Jose Javier Reyes emphasized the importance of nurturing the next generation of filmmakers.

“Tandaan ninyo, ang kinabukasan ng pelikulang Pilipino ay hindi nakasalalay sa aking henerasyon, ’yon ay nasa inyong mga kamay, at handa naming tulungan kayo na maging mas magaling pa kaysa sa mga naunang henerasyon,” said Dir. Reyes.

He also highlighted that the convention served as a platform for sharing knowledge by connecting student-filmmakers and educators to inspire the next wave of filmmakers and promote a vibrant film culture in the Philippines.

Furthermore, FilmEC offered a range of activities aimed at enhancing participants’ understanding of the film industry, including plenary talks, panel discussions, and screenings of award-winning student films. The event also featured film book sales and networking opportunities, facilitating connections between aspiring filmmakers and experienced professionals.

Representing the university at the convention were Dr. Ralph Arvic Arcenal and Joshua Usigan, instructors from BiPSU’s Department of Communication, along with five student filmmakers: John Cyril Labtic, Nikelyn Pahayay, Justine Quidol, Stanley Jaypee Morales, and Trisha Ibanez. Over the two-day event, they participated in film-related discussions and networking opportunities, expanding their knowledge and connections in the industry.

Nikelyn Pahayahay, a 4th-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication student at BiPSU, expressed that as an aspiring filmmaker, the convention was important because it offered her valuable learning opportunities, noting that living in a remote area like Biliran Province limits their access to film festivals and conventions.

“As an aspiring filmmaker, this convention is significant for me because it provides a deep learning experience. Living in a remote area like Biliran Province, I don’t often have opportunities to attend film festivals and conventions. That’s why this convention is important—it allows me to learn from experts in various fields and inspires me to create more films,” she added.

Moreover, BiPSU is a proud member of the Academic Film Society (AFS) and has partnered with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) to strengthen film production and promotion initiatives within the university.

#WoWBiPSU