Far Eastern University Department of Communication alumna Ayessa Tan added another feather to her cap as her short film “Ani” clinched the Best Film award under the Binisaya Horizons category at the 16th Binisaya International Film Festival, held from August 16 to 23.
This was announced during the festival’s closing program, where the Padayon Award winners were recognized.
“Ani” stood out among outstanding entries showcasing new works from the Philippines outside of Cebu. Written and directed by Tan, a Cavite-based filmmaker and FEU Manila graduate, “Ani” delves into pressing social issues surrounding agricultural workers and systemic anti-corruption efforts.
The film’s production team expressed their deepest gratitude to the festival organizers, Cebuano audiences, and the jury for placing their trust in the project. While the team was unable to attend the awards ceremony in person, they emphasized that the honor serves as a vital platform for their message.
“Although our production team could not be there physically, we are profoundly grateful for this award and for the opportunity to share our story, a narrative that stands with our farmers and speaks out against corruption,” Tan shared, dedicating the victory to everyone who supported and contributed to the project.
Tan got ample support from cinematographer and editor Jose Gabriel Unson, production designer Ethan Laurence Bardaje, sound designer Augusto Adre, musical scorer Mark Manansala, and actors Karl Medina, Sharon Ceneta, Vic Romano, Lau Apostol, Prince España, and Chrissy Abadicio.
Prior to its success in Cebu, the short film gained critical acclaim at FEU’s Sinepiyu XVIII, taking home 3rd Best Film, Best Screenplay, Best Production Design, and Best Supporting Actor for Vic Romano.
“Ani” was officially selected for Binisaya along with another FEU entry, “Where the Cave Ends” directed by Nix Vergara, who was able to attend the event.
Other Binisaya 16 major winners include “Sulong Kad” by Tyl Abellaneda (Cebu), Binisaya Shorts Best Film; “The Groundhog’s Nightmare” by Cromwell Ken Ibo (Davao), Binisaya Shorts Jury Award; “Hey Stranger” by Dan Lopez (Cebu), Binisaya Audience’s Choice; “samtang naghulat ko nga maakoa ka…” by Linus Masandag (Leyte), Binisaya Giatay; and “The Red Banca” by Nena Jane (Philippines), Binisaya World.
Up next, “Ani” will be screened as part of the 13th Nabunturan Independent Film Exhibition together with another FEU film, “Oguima” written and directed by Zarrina Fernandez.
Seymour B. Sanchez
Seymour Barros Sanchez is an advocacy filmmaker, communication and film lecturer, freelance writer, creative producer, technical consultant, and a former producer for news and current affairs programs. He served as Bacolod Film Festival director in 2024 and Technical Consultant for Academic Linkages of the Film Development Council of the Philippines from 2022 to 2025. He is a member of the Academic Film Society Advisory Committee of the FDCP, a representative of the Education Sector to the National Committee on Cinema Executive Council, and Secretary of the NCC.
