MANILA, Philippines (Aug. 2026) – A compelling Pinay short film shedding light on the struggles of agricultural workers and systemic corruption has claimed the top award at the 16th Binisaya International Film Festival.
Written and directed by Cavite-based filmmaker and Far Eastern University alumna Ayessa Tan, “Ani” clinched the Best Film award under the Binisaya Horizons category during the festival’s closing program. The category showcases outstanding new works from across the Philippines outside of Cebu.
A story standing with agricultural workers
“Ani” tackles pressing social issues, focusing on the plight of local farmers and the ongoing fight against systemic corruption.
Although the production team could not attend the awards ceremony in Cebu in person, Tan expressed deep gratitude to the organizers, Cebuano audiences, and jury members.
“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 the project.
The project came to life with the support of cinematographer and editor Jose Gabriel Unson, production designer Ethan Laurence Bardaje, sound designer Augusto Adre, musical scorer Mark Manansala, production manager Zai Codoy, line producer and first assistant director Sophia Loberiano, and second assistant director Anna Correo. The cast includes Karl Medina, Sharon Ceneta, Vic Romano, Lau Apostol, Prince España, and Chrissy Abadicio.
Sustained acclaim and what comes next
This major festival win follows previous critical acclaim at FEU’s Sinepiyu XVIII, where “Ani” took home 3rd Best Film, Best Screenplay, Best Production Design, and Best Supporting Actor for Vic Romano.
“Ani” was featured at Binisaya alongside another FEU entry, “Where the Cave Ends,” directed by Nix Vergara. Other top winners at the 16th Binisaya International Film Festival included “Sulong Kad” by Tyl Abellaneda (Binisaya Shorts Best Film), “The Groundhog’s Nightmare” by Cromwell Ken Ibo (Jury Award), “Hey Stranger” by Dan Lopez (Audience Choice), “samtang naghulat ko nga maakoa ka…” by Linus Masandag (Binisaya Giatay), and “The Red Banca” by Nena Jane (Binisaya World).
Up next, “Ani” will screen at the 13th Nabunturan Independent Film Exhibition, where it will be showcased alongside “Oguima,” a short film written and directed by fellow FEU filmmaker Zarrina Fernandez.
