FDCP announces Parangal ng Sining award winners, plans Cinemalaya festival

The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has announced this year's recipients of the Parangal ng Sining award, honoring influential figures in Filipino filmmaking.

This year's lifetime achievement honorees include Joseph Estrada, Charo Santos-Concio, Laurice Guillen, and Lav Diaz, each recognized for their significant contributions to the industry.

The FDCP also acknowledged three films that won at major international festivals: 'Iti Mapukpukaw' (Best Animated Film), 'Sunshine' (Crystal Bear at Berlin International Film Festival), and Judy Ann Santos's performance in 'Espantaho'.

A series of tribute screenings will be held on April 10 and 12, showcasing works by the honorees, including films like 'Itim', 'Tanging Yaman', and 'Ang Babaeng Humayo'.

FDCP chairperson Jose Javier Reyes confirmed that the Cinemalaya film festival will proceed in October this year and next, with special screenings of local and foreign films throughout Q2.

The FDCP plans to promote film education through various initiatives such as the Sine Kabataan pitching lab, Indie Siyensiya Workshop, and a student film assistance program offering grants up to P50,000.