The Philippines proudly presents its delegation at the 29th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) and the Asian Content and Film Market (ACFM) from October 2 to 11 in Busan, South Korea. This year, the Philippines will showcase its finest, featuring outstanding Filipino films, visionary filmmakers, and leading production companies at one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals and markets.
In the Main Competition (Jiseok Section), known for highlighting the works of seasoned Asian filmmakers, acclaimed director Brillante Mendoza brings his latest masterpiece, “Motherland.” The competition is named in honor of the late program director Kim Jiseok, a pivotal figure in promoting Asian cinema.
“Motherland” focuses on the survival story of Dao-Ayen, a member of the Philippine National Police Special Action Force (SAF) from the Ifugao tribe in northern Luzon. Called to the southernmost part of the Philippines for a special operation authorized by the president, Dao-Ayen leaves behind his pregnant wife and elderly mother. The mission aims to eliminate Marwan, a notorious terrorist and bomb maker. Despite previous delays and cancellations, the operation seems to proceed smoothly as Dao-Ayen and his team navigate through unfamiliar terrain under darkness. However, they are surrounded by hundreds of enemy forces on their return. Based on the true events of the 2015 Mamasapano clash, which resulted in significant casualties, the film raises profound questions about the nature of nationhood and heroism.
Our company, Fire and Ice Media, will participate for the first time in the Asian Content and Film Market with its own sales booth. As one of the few Southeast Asian-based sales companies, we are dedicated to bringing Filipino and Southeast Asian stories to the world. Fire and Ice Media is proud to represent “Motherland” and other regional titles in the market. This participation underscores our commitment to promoting diverse narratives and fostering international collaborations within the Asian film industry.
Competing in the New Currents Competition, emerging filmmaker Loeloe Hendra presents “Tale of the Land,” which follows an Indigenous Dayak girl haunted by her parents’ deaths in a land conflict. This poignant film delves deep into themes of loss, identity, and the struggles of Indigenous communities. “Tale of the Land” was previously selected as a project in the Cinema Project Market, an initiative held in the Philippines to support Southeast Asian projects in development. The film’s journey from development to international recognition highlights the effectiveness of regional collaboration in nurturing groundbreaking cinema.
The Windows on Asian Cinema section features a diverse lineup including “Viet and Nam” by Truong Minh Quy; “Don’t Cry Butterfly” by Duong Dieu Linh, recently awarded Best Picture at the Venice Critics Week; “The Hearing” by Lawrence Fajardo.
Under the Icons section, celebrated auteur Lav Diaz showcases “Phantosmia,” further cementing his status as a visionary in contemporary cinema.
At the Asian Project Market, director Don Eblahan introduced “Hum,” produced by Alemberg Ang, the project is seeking international collaboration.
Selected for the Asian Documentary Fund, Miko Revere’s “Sorry for the Late Reply” highlights pressing social issues through a compelling narrative lens.
The Wide Angle Showcase includes “Xixi” by Wufan is a unique co-production between Taiwan, the Philippines, and Korea, showcasing the collaborative spirit of Asian cinema. Meanwhile, the short films “Three for 100: Of, The Thrifting Office and Other Curious Things” by Credit Labadie and “Shore Dust” by P.R. Patindol offer imaginative explorations of contemporary life.
The Philippine delegation’s robust participation in BIFF and ACFM signifies a vibrant and dynamic presence in the Asian film industry, reflecting the country’s dedication to cinematic excellence and storytelling.
We extend our best wishes to the Philippine delegation as they bring the spirit of Filipino cinema to a global audience.
