The Cultural Center of the Philippines recently held a press conference to usher in the finalists to Cinemalaya 2019’s full length category. But one thing I realized as I attended the prestigious independent film festival several years back is that it was a gem for short films too.

This is why I took particular notice of the roster of short films for this year’s Cinemalaya, which incidentally, is celebrating 15 years of glorious filmmaking.

Among this year’s short film finalists are Wag Mo Kong Kausapin by Josef Gacutan; Disconnection Notice by Glenn Lowell Averia; Gatilyo by Harold Lance Pialda; Heist School by Julius Renomeron Jr.; Hele ng Maharlika (Lullaby of the Free) by Norvin de los Santos; Kontrolado ni Girly Ang Buhay Niya by Gilb Baldoza; Sa Among Agwat (In Between Spaces) by Don Senoc; Sa Gabing Tanging Liwanag ay Paniniwala by Francis Amir Guillermo; Shoemaker by Sheron Dayoc and, Tembong (Connecting) by Shaira Advincula.

The selection committee for Cinemalaya 2019 is composed of Nick Deocampo, Teddy Co, Milo Sogueco, Alvin Yapan and Law Fajardo. The 10 short list finalists bested 158 other entries submitted to the committee. Wow!

Cinemalaya 2019 will be open from August 2-13 at the CCP and partner cinemas.