The 6th CineGoma Film Festival opened on Nov. 24 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle, turning the QCX Museum grounds into a lively center for grassroots storytelling and community-based cinema. The launch marked the beginning of a week-long showcase aimed at supporting the next generation of Filipino filmmakers.
This year’s festival, which began as an internal project of RK Rubber Enterprise Co., centers on the theme “Stories from the Ground.” The concept underscores narratives that reflect the everyday realities, challenges and resilience of ordinary Filipinos, emphasizing cinema’s role not only as entertainment but also as a tool for social insight.
CineGoma has carved out a distinctive space in the country’s film landscape. Unlike festivals created through government or cultural agencies, CineGoma was founded by RK Rubber CEO Xavier Cortez after a team-building activity evolved into a yearly event. The festival’s unconventional beginnings highlight its commitment to accessibility, with screenings often offered at no cost to both filmmakers and audiences.
In his opening remarks, Cortez and fellow organizers underscored the importance of supporting creators, especially students and emerging artists, who use filmmaking for advocacy and education. They recognized the festival as an avenue for stories that are often overlooked but vital to preserve and share.
The opening day at the Quezon City Memorial Circle drew crowds to film exhibits and photo installations chronicling the festival’s growth. Local performers and student groups, including the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe, elevated the atmosphere, blending popular culture with artistic expression.
The 6th edition features a wide roster of films across several categories:
Student Films: 25 entries offering youthful and contemporary viewpoints.
Professional Entries: 15 films from established storytellers.
AI Storytelling: Two entries highlighting emerging technologies and their role in future filmmaking.
RK Exclusive Films: Five films produced by RK Rubber employees, paying tribute to the festival’s origins.
Documentaries, narrative shorts and experimental works screened throughout the day at QCX, giving audiences an early look at the festival’s compelling stories. Additional screenings will be held in partner venues, including Coffee Spot and Sine Pop, expanding the festival’s reach.
Looking Ahead to the Awards Night
The festival will continue its educational initiatives in the coming weeks through workshops and panel discussions designed to equip young filmmakers with practical skills and industry knowledge.
CineGoma will close with its Final Big Screening and Awards Night on Nov. 29 at Quezon City University. Top films will be recognized with cash prizes and honors for capturing the festival’s central themes of resilience and hope.
The strong launch of the 6th CineGoma Film Festival reinforces its mission to provide an inclusive space where diverse and often-unheard Filipino stories can be seen and celebrated. It stands as proof that powerful filmmaking can emerge from unexpected places — even from the floors of a factory.
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