CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Mindanao’s filmmakers took center stage as CINEMAGIS 16 showcased a record 51 films, the largest lineup in the festival’s 16-year history.Held from Sept. 23 to 26 at the Xavier University Little Theater, the festival brought together filmmakers, students, and creative artists through film screenings, competitions, workshops, and special presentations.
Festival Director Dr. Hobart P. Savior said the record number of films reflects the growing strength of Mindanao’s local film community.
He also praised filmmakers who continued creating despite limited resources and challenging production conditions.This year’s festival carried the theme “Frames of Truth, Stories of Accountability,” highlighting films that tackle advocacy, community concerns, and real-life issues.The four-day event featured documentaries, animated films, short films, independent productions, and special screenings, including works from the Ngilngig Film Festival and CCP Lakbay Sine.
CINEMAGIS 16 also offered workshops on animation, film editing, and independent filmmaking, giving aspiring filmmakers opportunities to learn from industry practitioners.
The festival concluded on Sept. 26 with additional screenings and the CINEMAGIS 16 Awards Night, celebrating Mindanao’s growing film and creative community.
