29/07/2026
International News | Malinao docu films win big at 12th Emirates Film Festival ‘26
Two films produced in Malinao, Aklan have earned international recognition after receiving multiple awards at the 12th Emirates Film Festival 2026, held at The New Covent Garden, Mall of the Emirates, United Arab Emirates.
GIID: Footmarks received the Best Documentary and Emerging Filmmaker awards, while OSMAN: Peaceful Mountain Life was recognized with Best Cast Ensemble and Best Child Performance and also received a nomination for Best Screenplay.
In collaboration with Musyon Film Productions and Aklan Kamera Org, the production company submitted its official Filipino entries, OSMAN: Peaceful Mountain Life and GIID: Footmarks, to several international film festivals in 2026.
OSMAN: Peaceful Mountain Life, directed by Malinaonon filmmaker Mark Darwin Ingeniero from a story by Venus Flores, portrays the lives of persons with disabilities residing in remote mountain communities.
In the film, Asher Protacio, a Grade 8 student and Ang Artisano photojournalist, delivered a performance that highlights the resilience, perseverance, and determination of individuals who overcome the challenges of daily life despite limited access to essential services and resources. His portrayal earned him the Best Child Performance award.
Meanwhile, GIID: Footmarks, directed by Dennis Eudela from a story by another Malinaonon and former Artisano faculty member Jomer Protacio, chronicles the journey of dancer Joylyn Jawod, an MSPC alumna, whose passion for dance evolved into a platform for community inspiration and empowerment.
The GIID: Footmarks documentary illustrates how personal struggles can be transformed into meaningful expressions of hope and service.
Expressing his gratitude, story writer Jomer Protacio said, “I’m beyond happy that we were able to share the stories of Artisanos across the globe. We did not only showcase our story, but we also climbed to the top by winning the Best Documentary award. As an Artisano, this is one of my most fulfilling accomplishments.”
Reflecting on the achievement, director Mark Darwin Ingeniero expressed his gratitude and surprise over the international recognition.
“As a filmmaker who has joined festivals around the world, I never expected UBE Production to bring home four awards and one nomination. This achievement proves that even a small independent production with limited resources can be recognized by experienced and award-winning jurors through passion, dedication, and meaningful storytelling,” Ingeniero said.
Beyond the recognition, the achievement highlights the significance of local storytelling in promoting the experiences, culture, and aspirations of Filipino communities, demonstrating that narratives rooted in local realities can reach and resonate with international audiences.
✍️Niña Ysabelle Iledan
📸UBE Productions (FB)
