Sine Negrense 2024 Celebrates Record-Breaking Representation with 16 Female Directors Across 24 Competition Entries 

Sine Negrense 2024 is making history with its remarkable representation of female talent, featuring 16 female directors across its Main and Exhibition Sections. This year's festival, with 24 competition entries, highlights the distinct voices of these women, who bring diverse perspectives to the forefront of Philippine cinema by exploring themes from social issues to cultural heritage and intimate human stories.

Among the directors showcased in the Main Competition Section are Chelsea Tasic (A Flower A Day), Mai Montelibano (A Stroll Down Paris Lane), Charlene Tupas (Aninaw), Pau Ortaliz Santos and Nina Aira Villanueva (co-directors of Laragway Sa Karon), Kimberly Fallega (Pyesa), and Ana Erica Avanceña (Tagana). Vanneza Estañol directs Thlem Me Why, Rcynize Portugal presents For When It Blooms Again, and Marianne Villeta’s Homemade Friends captures the essence of community and friendship. Also featured are Reanna Lyn Catayoc with Huni Sang Kahilum, Angel Mercy Pelagio with Lingganay, Althea Faith Gayondato with Panuaron, Liza Mae Sarona with Si Dodot, Pilot, and Nean Alegario with Tani.

This year’s Exhibition Section, highlighting emerging voices and experimental work, also features talented female filmmakers: Julia Alyssa Baring (Grind), Marian Jayce Tiongzon (May Kulay Rosas Ba Sa Bahaghari?), and Mery Grace Rama-Mission (Mananguete).

These female directors reflect Sine Negrense’s commitment to fostering women’s representation in film, celebrating their individual artistry and diverse storytelling. Sine Negrense 2024 stands as a vibrant testament to the power of female voices, setting the stage for an inspiring future in Philippine cinema.