“Gawin niyo ‘yung mga kwento niyo, i-express ninyo ang mga boses ninyo, gumawa kayo ng mga pelikula.” —National Artist Ricky Lee.
iACADEMY is bringing back the iNDIEGENIUS Project Lab after a highly successful first year. This program is designed to help young filmmakers, especially those from regional areas, create and share stories inspired by indigenous and regional themes.
In partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the Directors Guild of the Philippines (DGPI), iNDIEGENIUS provides resources and support to help these voices be heard.
Inspiring start
The second edition of iNDIEGENIUS kicked off with inspiring speeches by National Artist for Film Ricky Lee, iACADEMY president Raquel Perez-Wong, and creative director Keith Sicat, alongside insights from notable filmmakers and industry professionals, setting the tone for a celebration of creativity and innovation in filmmaking.
The event also featured screenings of standout films, including Bisan Abo, Wala Bilin by Kydylee Torato. Set in a village plagued by a mysterious skin disease, the film follows Sabel, a young girl desperate to save her community’s sacred healing tree. Deeply rooted in the folklore of Roxas City, Capiz, the tree is believed to have miraculous powers. Villagers tie clothes and exchange names on its branches, trusting in its ability to heal and protect. The film reminds us that who we are is deeply rooted in our culture. Traditions like those depicted in the film connect people to their history, their values, and each other. They provide strength during uncertain times and a sense of belonging when all else feels lost.
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Growing bigger and better
This year, the program has doubled the scholar slots, giving more young creators a chance to participate. Beyond workshops and mentorship, iNDIEGENIUS also provides global exposure, as shown by last year’s scholars, who attended the Busan International Film Festival.
National Artist Ricky Lee summed it up best: “Huwag kayong mangarap lang, ang dami-daming pintong nagbubukas na kagaya nitong sa Indiegenius—gawin niyo yung mga kwento niyo, i-express niyo ang mga boses ninyo, gumawa kayo ng mga pelikula.”
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This year, the program offers two paths:
- Finalist Projects – Ten participants will compete for two ₱500,000 production grants.
- Scholars – Ten aspiring filmmakers will join workshops and receive mentorship to develop their ideas.
In total, 20 participants will benefit from the program.
“This year, we’re doubling down on our commitment to foster talent and support innovative storytelling,” said Wong. “By nurturing these creative voices, we contribute to a vibrant and diverse cinematic landscape.”
Success stories
Last year’s program led to impressive achievements, including Tumandok by Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Richard Jeroui Salvadico, which won at Cinemalaya 2024; Threefor100 by Cedrick Labadia, which earned Best Director and Best Picture at the Manila Film Festival and represented the Philippines at the Busan International Film Festival; and Kydylee Torato’s Bisan Abo, Wala Bilin, which premiered at the Sinag Maynila Film Festival and garnered international attention.
Want to write the next best indie film?
Applications for iNDIEGENIUS are open until January 27, 2025. Aspiring filmmakers can apply at indiegenius.iacademy.edu.ph. Finalists and scholars will undergo intensive workshops, and two projects will win production grants.
If you’re ready to tell your story and bring your vision to life, iNDIEGENIUS might be your big break.
