The Kalinga State University placed a second runner-up finish in the Cinetakilya sa Akademya: Chronicles and Anthologies of Regional Education Success (CARES) concluded in an awarding ceremony held at the University of Cordilleras Amphitheater, October 20.
KSU's entry titled "Abakada sa Mais" was inspired by the real-life story of Dina Sillatoc, a Bachelor in Agricultural Technology student who qualified as one of the Commission on Higher Education's Tertiary Education Subsidy grantees.
Aside from landing in the top 3, KSU's short film was also a consistent nominee in the special awards which include Best Screenplay, Best Director and Best Cinematography.
Eleven entries were submitted by different higher education institutions in the Cordillera region. During the elimination, only six (6) made it to the finalist lists.
The finalists included Benguet State University with two (2) entries, University of Baguio, University of the Cordilleras, and Mountain Province State Polytechnic College.
MPSPC bagged the top spot with their "Kasinaya short film followed by University of Baguio for their "Kadagiti Matak".
According to Dr.Maryjoyce Wangiwang, Director for Student Services, the KSU team hurdled a week of shooting and editing to produce an entry despite the limitations in high-end equipment and advanced knowledge in film making.
"The achievement is a cause of celebration because most of the team members were first-timers and without background in film making," added Wangiwang.
Meanwhile, Sillatoc aired gratitude and pride for having been given the chance to become a source of inspiration to the young with the sharing of her life story.RLL-UIO