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| (Image Source: ClickTheCity.com/Cinemalaya Foundation Inc.) |
Building on over two decades of nurturing independent Filipino cinema, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and Cinemalaya Foundation Inc. open the screens for submission to the Short Film Category of the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2026. The deadline for submissions is on or before 6:00 pm of February 27, 2026. The country’s biggest independent film competition is open to all Filipino filmmakers. Interested participants may submit a maximum of three (3) entries but only one (1) entry per proponent may be considered as a finalist.
Submitted entries must have been produced from May 16, 2025 to February 27, 2026. Short film entries that participated in other local and international festivals and competitions are qualified to join Cinemalaya. Entries may be submitted online or offline. Online applicants may submit the following requirements through https://bit.ly/CM2026_ShortFilm_EntryForm: a duly completed entry form, synopsis in English, a brief resume with 2×2 photo/s of the filmmaker/s, and the final work in MP4 format with violator/watermark (for screening purposes only) and properly labeled with title, production company, address and contact numbers, production date, director’s name, and running time (which should not exceed 20 minutes including credits). On the other hand, offline applicants may submit their entries to the CCP Film, Broadcast, and New Media Division office located at the Cultural Center of the Philippines Annex Building, Vicente Sotto St. corner Magdalena Jalandoni St., Pasay City. For offline submissions, film entries must be submitted on a thumb drive (USB) with the entry form, synopsis, and filmmaker’s profile. All must be submitted in a long brown envelope properly labeled with the proponent’s name, title of the film, and contact details. The Cinemalaya Selection Committee will shortlist 10 film finalists which will be screened at the 2026 Cinemalaya Film Festival on August 6-18, 2026 and will have the chance to compete for the coveted Balanghai trophies.
Since 2005, Cinemalaya has been committed to the development and promotion of Philippine independent film. At its core, it provides an avenue for the production of cinematic works of Filipino independent filmmakers that boldly articulate and freely interpret the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With its call for submissions for the 2026 short film competition, Cinemalaya continues to invigorate the Philippine film industry by developing a new breed of Filipino filmmakers. For full mechanics, visit the official websites of CCP (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and Cinemalaya (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya social media accounts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for more updates.
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DLSL Film Society Bags Top Honors At The 2025 Sinemaya Community Film Festival Awards Night
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) proudly celebrates another milestone in student creative excellence as the DLSL Film Society garnered multiple recognitions at the Sinemaya Community Film Festival 2025, organized by Bente Productions Inc. The awarding ceremony was held on December 15, 2025 at SM City San Pablo featuring finalists from the Philippines, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand with special film presentations from Korea and Canada. Representing the institution through its production arm Kisapmata Productions, the DLSL Film Society competed with the short film “Saan Aabot Ang Singkwenta Ni Tatay?” which eventually earned the People’s Choice Award, a distinction that reflects strong audience reception and resonance, and secured Best Screenplay, awarded to Frinz Matthew Villasoto, and Best Actor (Nel Estuya), further affirming the strength of both its narrative and performance.
“Saan Aabot Ang Singkwenta Ni Tatay?” tells the story of a hardworking tricycle driver whose modest earnings limit what he can provide for his aspiring artist daughter. With only fifty pesos as her daily allowance, the daughter struggles to pursue her passion, wishing her father could afford the art materials she needs. Despite these hardships, the father’s quiet perseverance and unconditional love never waver. In time, his sacrifices bear fruit as the daughter succeeds — learning to recognize and deeply appreciate the true value of her father’s relentless grind. In addition to these wins, the film received nominations in key categories including Best Director for Frinz Matthew Villasoto and Best Actress for Miehl Antoneitte Cuenca, underscoring the collective excellence of the production team across multiple facets of filmmaking. The Sinemaya Community Film Festival is an international platform that recognizes films advocating social awareness, community engagement, and meaningful storytelling. Competing alongside entries from various Southeast Asian countries, the DLSL Film Society’s achievement highlights its ability to produce work that is both artistically compelling and socially relevant on an international stage and stands as a testament to Lasallian talent, discipline, and creative vision. This achievement affirms De La Salle Lipa’s commitment to cultivating student artists who are not only technically skilled but also socially conscious and globally competitive.
The DLSL Film Society is a special interest student organization that serves as a creative space for Lasallian college students passionate about filmmaking and the arts. Operating under the College Student Activities Office, the organization is one of nearly 40 recognized student groups that contribute to DLSL’s vibrant campus life. Through film projects, workshops, and competitions, the Film Society nurtures artistic expression, collaboration, and purposeful storytelling. As the institution continues to champion student-led creative endeavors, milestones such as this reinforce its mission of forming individuals who use their talents in service of truth, creativity, and the greater good — bringing pride and distinction to the Lasallian community.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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DOST-Batangas Opens Applications For SETUP, Offering Financial And Technical Assistance To Batangueño MSMEs
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| (Image Source: thechronicle.com.ph/DOST-Batangas) |
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas has opened the application for the Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP), providing financial and technical assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the province. Through SETUP, DOST-Batangas supports MSMEs in improving productivity and competitiveness by offering zero-interest financial assistance for technology acquisition, along with technical consultancy, workforce training, product testing, and assistance in packaging and labeling.
Qualified MSMEs may avail of financial assistance of up to ₱5M (5 million pesos), payable over three years with a one-year grace period. The program prioritizes enterprises in food processing, metals and engineering, agriculture and forestry, aquaculture, halal products, furniture, gifts and handicrafts, health and wellness, information and communications technology, creative industries, energy and environment, and other regional priority sectors. SETUP accepts applications from Filipino-owned firms operating in the Philippines that seek to upgrade their existing processes through appropriate technologies. Associations, cooperatives, and community-based groups may also apply through their respective local government units.
Interested applicants must submit a project proposal, letter of intent, business permits and licenses, financial statements, and other required documents to the DOST-Batangas office in Kumintang Ilaya, Batangas City. Through SETUP, DOST-Batangas continues to deliver science- and technology-based interventions that strengthen MSMEs, promote innovation, and contribute to sustainable economic development in the province.
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Jollibee Brings Back Mix & Match To Let Customers Enjoy Best Sa Sarap Favorites Together
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| (Image Source: Jollibee) |
Jollibee, the Philippines’ no. 1 fastfood chain, has brought back Mix & Match, giving customers new ways to enjoy its best-tasting favorites in a single meal. Starting at ₱78, diners can pair popular mains and sides, showing how the brand’s Best Sa Sarap items are meant to be enjoyed together. With the return of Mix & Match, Jollibee puts the spotlight back on the taste of its core products while giving customers the freedom to enjoy them their way. By bringing together popular mains and sides in one offering, the brand aims to make it easier for customers to enjoy their Best Sa Sarap favorites in combinations they prefer.
“Mix & Match is all about bringing people together over the Jollibee favorites they love. It lets everyone enjoy our best-tasting products in a way that feels personal, letting them choose the combinations that make their meal the perfect match,” said Jollibee Philippines Vice President for Marketing Dorothy Ching. Under Mix & Match, customers select one main and one side. Main options priced at ₱78 include the Yumburger, Jolly Spaghetti, and 1-piece Burger Steak while ₱88 mains include the Cheesy Yumburger, Crunchy Chicken Sandwich, and Jolly Hotdog. Side choices include Soda Float, Peach Mango Pie, Choco Sundae, Jolly Crispy Fries, and the newly introduced Iced Mocha. This 2026, Jollibee Mix & Match is endorsed by the Nation’s Girl Group BINI whose strong group dynamic reflects the spirit of the offering. Each member brings her own personality, and together they show how different favorites can come together to create a more enjoyable experience. Ching added, “BINI reflects what Mix & Match stands for. Just like with food, life is better when everything you love comes together. Kahit anong piliin mo, masarap. Kahit sinong kasama mo, mas masaya!” Watch the latest ad on Facebook.
Fans are encouraged to share their favorite Mix & Match combinations online, turning everyday meals into moments of connection. With the message “Maraming match. At lahat, Best sa Sarap”, Jollibee Mix & Match underscores the joy of choice and the pleasure of enjoying great-tasting food together. Jollibee Mix & Match is available nationwide for dine-in, takeout, and drive-thru.
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DOST-Batangas Eyes Assistance To Ten Community-Based Associations, Cooperatives For Technology Upgrading In 2026
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| (Image Source: WOWBatangas.com/DOST-Batangas) |
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Batangas is set to assist at least 10 community-based associations and cooperatives in the province for technology upgrading in 2026 under the Grants-In-Aid Community-Based Program and the Community Empowerment Through Science And Technology (CEST) program. In preparation for the proposed interventions, DOST-Batangas has already conducted technology needs assessments among the identified associations and cooperatives. Continuous coordination is currently underway to refine project proposals and ensure that the planned science and technology interventions are responsive to the actual needs of the communities.
Under the Grants-In-Aid Community-Based Program, DOST provides financial grants to support community-based science and technology projects that harness local capabilities and promote suitable technologies. The program aims to enhance productivity, support sustainable economic growth, and improve the quality of life of Filipinos by funding relevant science- and technology-driven initiatives. Meanwhile, the CEST program delivers a comprehensive package of science and technology interventions designed to build progressive, empowered, and resilient rural communities. The program prioritizes assistance to the poorest and most depressed areas through projects in health and nutrition, water and sanitation, basic education and literacy, livelihood and economic enterprise development, as well as disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation.
Through these initiatives, DOST Batangas continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive development by bringing science, technology, and innovation closer to grassroots communities and supporting their journey toward long-term sustainability.
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Driving Philippine Tennis Forward With A New Season Of Nationwide Competition: Jean Henri Lhuillier Champions 2026 Cebuana Lhuillier Tennis Tour
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Cebuana Lhuillier) |
The 2026 Cebuana Lhuillier Tennis Tour officially kicks off a new season of nationwide competition, reaffirming its mission to elevate Philippine tennis under the leadership of Cebuana Lhuillier President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier. In partnership with Unified Tennis Philippines (UTP), the tour opens its calendar in Biñan, Laguna and San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, setting the tone for a year focused on grassroots development, elite performance, and broader access to the sport.
A strong advocate for Philippine sports development, Lhuillier, who is also President of the UTP, has consistently emphasized the importance of sustainability and inclusivity in tennis. The UTP Elite Eight Playoffs — bringing together the top players from Luzon and Visayas-Mindanao — reflects his vision of unifying the country’s best talents while raising competitive standards. The season will ultimately culminate with members of the UTP National Team representing the Philippines in international tournaments across Southeast Asia. “We have always believed that tennis should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or location. Through the Cebuana Lhuillier Tennis Tour, we are not only developing athletes but also building character, discipline, and opportunities for young Filipinos to compete, grow, and proudly represent the country on bigger stages,” said Lhuillier.
Now regarded as one of the longest-running national tennis circuits for juniors, the Cebuana Lhuillier Tennis Tour continues to serve as a vital platform for young athletes across the country. For 2026, the tour features at least 17 junior legs nationwide, alongside the flagship UTP Elite Eight Playoffs, NeXtGen Men’s and Women’s Open events, and additional recreational competitions. Under Lhuillier’s leadership, the tour has grown into a structured pathway that nurtures talent from the junior level to international representation.
