"I am not comfortable talaga with saying I am replacing Direk Maryo J. delos Reyes because Direk Maryo cannot be replaced. I am just here to continue his vision and his good sense of advocacy for the farmers," said director-thespian Bibeth Orteza, who was announced as the new Tofarm Film Festival Director last March 14, at the press conference held in Makati Shangri-la Hotel.
She admits being inspired by the story of Maricel Cariaga, the latter a real farmer who directed her film with a grant from Tofarm and won international awards, even getting a Chinese distribution. "It's inspiring because here is somebody from that economic class...anak ng magsasaka....at yung kaalaman at experience niya as a member of the farming community inaapply niya doon sa kanyang pelikula." She also mentioned that she has some relatives in Samar who belong to the agricultural industry.
Now on its third year, Tofarm Film Festival will also have veteran director Joey Romeo on board as a consultant. The theme for this year is Tribute to Life, Parating Na. Speaking of life, Bibeth Orteza has been enjoying a worry-free life for 14 years since that's how long ago her cancer went into remission.
The festival which is produced by Universal Harvester Inc. under Dr. Milagros O. How will be held from Sept. 12 to 18 this year. Right now they are still accepting entries. The seed money for the seven chosen finalists is PhP1.5 million. Winner of the Best Picture will get an additional PhP500,000 and a trophy while the 2nd Best Film will get PhP400,000 and a trophy.
A new addition this year is the short film category as well as the Maryo J. Delos Reyes Special Award which will merit the winner PhP300,000 and a trophy.
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