I AM A HALO-HALO

Directed by Daniel Buhat

Ethan, a third culture Filipino and aspiring chef goes back to the Philippines for the first time in his life to visit his Lola Luningning. Here, he struggles as he immerses himself in the Filipino culture, while tackling his grandmother’s challenge of cooking “noche buena” – the traditional Christmas midnight meal. He met all sorts of Filipino characters, and one wise halo-halo vendor guided him about who he really was.

Daniel Buhat, a recent film graduate from MINT College, navigates the realms of a third-culture upbringing, split between Dubai and the Philippines. Working as a professional editor most of his college life, he took the leap of faith as a director for his thesis film “Ako ay Isang Halo-Halo (I am a Halo-Halo)”. This cinematic endeavor intricately weaves his personal journey and culinary passion into a profound exploration of cultural identity and the notion of home. Buhat’s films are a blend of introspection and visual storytelling, resonating deeply with themes of belonging and cultural diversity.

Plays in

Shorts Program III: Scenes from Home

Scenes from Home takes us to the familiar but often complicated dynamic within our own households or homeland.

Dates & Times

Theater 13, AMC Theater Plaza Bonita, Westfield

October 11, 2025
11:00 am