29 December 2014 – University of the Philippines student Neica dela Cruz’s short film “Lunod” was selected as a finalist in the International Students Creative Award 2014 on November 21 at the modern chic Grand Front Osaka commercial complex.
The event organizers, namely from the Knowledge Capital Association and Superstation Inc., and accompanied by the Osaka Asian Film Festival, called on the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka to inform them of the good news and to invite all Filipino film lovers to attend the free event.
Consul General Maria Teresa Taguiang extolled the artistic talents of the Filipino youth, such as Neica dela Cruz, and encouraged Filipino artists to hone their craft through advancing their skills and nurturing their passion.
Ms. Dela Cruz was invited to attend the event the other five finalists, from the United States, Taiwan, France, Hungary, and the United Kingdom, as they are sure to win a prize, either the Grand Prize 300,000 JpY, two 1st Prizes of 100,00 JpY, or three 2nd Prizes of film production material, such as cameras/printers.
This year, there were 256 entries of which three were from the Philippines. For 12 years, the event accepted only Japanese short film entries, and it turned international last year accepting 67 entries from many different countries, one of which was Filipino.
The success of the event highlights the importance of social media in transcending physical borders as most of the participants coursed their entries through Facebook and websites.
The trailer of “Lunod” can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iOGajugNgO. END