In last week's column, we talked about the launch of the annual International Silent Film Festival Manila which is now on its 15th year. It had its opening ceremony last Wednesday at the newly reopened Metropolitan Theater. We noted that instead of presenting one original silent film classic like our partner countries to represent their country, the Philippines will be represented by nine newly-made silent short films.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, NOVEMBER 29, 2021 — After spending a substantial amount of time on Planet Earth learning and experiencing the culture of the “earthlings,” Heneral Tuna plots a new evil plan to successfully take over the planet in the last episode of “Heneral Tuna” on the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Channel.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES, NOVEMBER 26, 2021 — To honor the invaluable contributions of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Kidlat Tahimik to the development of independent Philippine Cinema, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Department of Foreign Affairs’ (DFA) Public and Cultural Diplomacy arms will hold free screenings and a talkback session on November 28 to December 8.