CEBU CITY, Philippines (Apr 2026) — A nursing student from Bacolod just proved that powerful storytelling doesn’t need a Manila address. Chelsea Tasic’s short film “Isa Ka Higayon” (One Time) took home Best Director and Best Editing at SineDisipulo XIV, the University of San Carlos’ student film festival in Cebu.
The double win isn’t just a personal milestone. It’s a signal that regional filmmakers are crafting stories with technical polish and emotional depth that rival anything from the capital.
A film about time, made with precision
Tasic, a senior nursing student at University of St. La Salle in Bacolod, directed “Isa Ka Higayon” with the La Salle Film Society. The film’s rhythm and structure, shaped by Jabez Tondo’s award-winning editing, maximize emotional stakes without relying on flashy tricks.
SineDisipulo’s judges recognized Tasic’s cohesive vision and distinct cinematic voice. Tondo’s editing prize highlighted how the assembly of shots served the story first.
From regional fest to national stage
The momentum didn’t stop in Cebu. “Isa Ka Higayon” went on to compete in the student category of the 8th Sinag Maynila Film Festival, known for championing independent cinema with a social conscience. For Tasic, the selection meant her work reached wider audiences and industry professionals.
Her track record includes recognition at the Bacolod Film Festival in 2024 and Sine Negrense: The Negros Island Film Festival for three consecutive years.
More winners, more voices
SineDisipulo XIV, themed “Railways through the Regions,” showcased 20 narrative and documentary shorts from student filmmakers across Visayas and Mindanao. The festival wrapped at Kyurēto Art Space and SM J Mall Cebu.
Other winners included “Ang Kabug Aton sa Nangabilin” by Herald Christian Guillena and Ma. Katrina Rustia, which took Best Film, Best Screenplay, and Best Actress for Vanessa Fe Feje. Special Jury Prize went to “Asa si Mar-Mar?” by Shaina Rico, while Jessiah Makilan earned Best Actor for “Pagdumdom.”
For Pinoy film students watching from outside Metro Manila, Tasic’s wins send a clear message: your story matters, your region has a voice, and disciplined craft opens doors.
“Isa Ka Higayon” also earned nominations for Best Film, Best Screenplay, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Production Design at SineDisipulo.
