Programing team

SDFFF 2025 Programing Team

It is an honor to be a part of the SDFFF Programming Team again. All art is a reflection of the time it is created in, and this year’s submissions to the San Diego Filipino Film Festival are no exception. From sci-fi stories imagining the impact of climate change on the not-so-distant future, to the unsung triumphs and hardships of Filipino immigrants/Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families, to the the very real, ongoing struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community, to stories taking a look at familial relations, and so much more, this year’s festival really showcases the rich diversity of stories our community has to offer. It shows how powerful, nuanced, and creative our voices are in addressing what is going on around us all. This festival is truly a testament to the fact that art heals and brings people together, and I hope that, no matter your background, you find a piece of yourself in these narratives or learn something new. Mabuhay ang pelikulang Pilipino!

We seek stories that ignite thoughtful conversations through compelling visual language, emotional depth, and a profound connection to our shared humanity. Above all, we value narratives that challenge the status quo with layered, relevant social commentary. This year, we are especially focused on the intentional and selfless voice of the filmmaker—someone who pursues meaningful impact and change through the power of diverse storytelling.

Art and storytelling have always shown us a way forward—an antidote to the fatigue, helplessness, and worry so many of us feel today—and history reminds us that the most powerful works often emerge from the toughest times. This year’s lineup is no exception: film after film brings urgent social issues to life through layered plots and complex characters, while also opening space for conversations too often left unspoken. Among them are stories from the Filipino diaspora worldwide—narratives of migration, resilience, and connection that echo across borders and generations. As we celebrate our fifth year, my heart is full and I am honored to help share these grounded, intentional works from filmmakers around the globe—stories for our community to experience now and carry with them long after the festival ends.

It has been an absolute joy and honor to be part of SDFC’s programming team again this year. SDFC cultivates a nurturing environment and community for creators, artists, and visionaries alike to grow in their craft and share their unique stories. As a member of the programming team, watching each project submitted reminded me of the power of storytelling through filmmaking. With a diverse display of identities, experiences, and stories expressed through varying formats and styles, the film lineup for this year is not one to be missed. I always leave this experience feeling inspired, grounded, and curious, eager for audiences to experience their own journey through each film.

Cinema has the magical ability to galvanize hope and inspire change. This year’s program transports us from the depths of space to the familiar streets of our hometowns, immersing us in unique perspectives that broaden our horizons and make us more compassionate. These films confront the complexities of social and economic inequities, climate justice, and gender expectations while leaving ample room for the joy, whimsy, and love that are hallmarks of our community’s resilience and resistance. Through shared laughter, tears, comfort, and surprise, we come together to celebrate the diversity of the Filipino diaspora and revel in our shared culture. I’m truly honored to be part of this year’s programming team, and I look forward to the many ways these films will make us kinder and more eager advocates for equity. Thank you for supporting independent films – mabuhay!

I’m truly honored to witness 5 years of SDFFF. Over time, this festival has opened many doors and shared stories that reflect the richness of a diverse community. Becoming part of the programming team has been especially important to me because it allows me to help connect audiences with films that spark dialogue and understanding. I’m constantly inspired by the brilliance of Filipino filmmakers, whose creativity and courage in telling authentic stories continue to uplift our culture and resonate beyond borders. This year’s lineup is especially meaningful, as it gives a voice to communities whose stories are often unseen, reminding us that every story matters, and that each of us, regardless of our background, plays an important role in the richness of our shared human experience.

Being part of the SDFFF programming team has been such a meaningful experience. Each year, I find myself learning so much from the films and the stories they carry. This year’s lineup continues to remind me how powerful cinema can be in building bridges across cultures, identities, and experiences.
What stands out most to me is how these narratives not only reflect the diversity of the Filipino/a/x community but also reveal the universal themes that connect us all. Watching these films has been both inspiring and humbling, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help share them with others.

Film is but an expression of love and devotion. Our stories are potent- voices soaring through generations meet us in this moment. What an honor it has been to witness the passion of every filmmaker in this 2025 program. With these films may we share laughter, tears, fear, rage. May we connect deeply through open minds, remaining curious in conversation. May this art live on, continuously inspiring us even beyond the theater.

It’s a huge honor to be invited again to the SDFFF programming team for the second year. I still cannot believe I get to play a significant role in this festival alongside people I really admire. As a big fan of Asian cinema, my hope is that my involvement in this festival makes people more aware of the Filipino film industry. It makes my heart full to be a part of an organization that discovers and nurtures Filipino filmmakers and storytellers from around the world. This year’s lineup is a true reflection of what Filipino cinema has to offer. I’m very proud to have seen the evolution of this festival year after year, especially with our shorts program. One thing I really liked this year is that the growth of this festival has paved the way for us to witness stories from parts of the Philippines we do not often see represented in mainstream media. I am very excited to see everyone’s reactions to our feature films and shorts program this year. Congratulations to all the filmmakers that made it happen – you all inspire me. Philippine cinema is not dead!

I am honored to be part of this year’s programming committee for the 5th Annual San Diego Filipino Film Festival. Now, more than ever, it’s important to highlight our diverse and complex stories. As people of color, and for myself identifying as a woman, we’re being overtly targeted by institutions of power. As an organization with a platform, it’s our responsibility to uplift our stories and give them the space to shine on their own. This year I’m particularly proud to feature stories of women’s reproductive rights, complex family relationships, and celebrating our trans community. We hope San Diego also recognizes the importance of these stories, to reflect and find joy in these dark moments.