University of Northern Philippines students showcased their filmmaking talents through two university entries—Idi Simmungbat ti Lubong by Bagong Silang Productions and Ang Alamat ng PunDAR—during PelikulAgraryo 2026 held on October 2 at Pangasinan State University–Sta. Maria Campus, carrying the theme “Ubra ken Obra: Aldaw ti Pammadayaw.”
Bagong Silang Productions secured 3rd Place in the Agrarian Reform Beneficiary (ARB) Category for its film Idi Simmungbat ti Lubong, further earning nominations in the Best Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Director, and Best Cinematography categories. Adding to the team’s achievement, Ejen Glenn Torda, a Bachelor of Arts in Communication alumnus of UNP, was named Best Actor for his performance in the film.
Bagong Silang Productions brought together 11 UNP students and one Bachelor of Arts in Communication alumnus, representing several academic units of the University. The team included Danielle Estelle Iya, Drexli Joanna Ambida, Ma. Carolanne Rapacon, Krizia Miles Almazan, Ja Gapate, Reizell Anne Talavera, Roman Paolo Atianzar, and George Purugganan Jr. from the College of Arts and Sciences; Justyne Meds S. Labasay from the College of Computing and Information Technology; Cris Niño Planta from the College of Business Administration and Accountancy; and Chlouisse Kielle Favis from the College of Fine Arts and Design. Mr. Kennedy Jetajobe, a faculty member of the College of Arts and Sciences, served as the production adviser.
UNP also fielded Ang Alamat ng PunDAR, which featured the collaborative efforts of 24 students from the Bachelor of Culture and Arts Education, Bachelor of Science in Emergency Health Services, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Education, and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration programs. Dr. Matilde Concordia served as adviser, with Dr. Marnie Tabilin as co-adviser, both faculty members of the College of Teacher Education. PelikulAgraryo provides a platform for student filmmakers to tell stories that celebrate the lives, aspirations, achievements, and resilience of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries and their organizations. Through narratives rooted in rural communities, collective action, and the transformative impact of agrarian reform, the film showcases highlights stories of hope, perseverance, and community-driven success across the country.
