Mindanao State University - General Santos (MSU-Gensan) officially launched the GEC106: Filmmaking Workshop 2025, marking a significant milestone for aspiring filmmakers within the university, March 21.
Organized by the Bidlisiw Film-Makers Club, this three-day event brings together students and industry professionals to explore the art and craft of filmmaking.
“Filmmaking is Feel-Making”
Director Earl Bontuyan, the workshop's primary resource speaker, emphasized the importance of storytelling in cinema.
"Well, do your art with your heart, right? Filmmaking is actually feel-making. You're capturing the feelings in your story. I think the best way is to be genuine about it and to be honest. And then, project it the way you like it," the director expressed.
Dir. Bontuyan delivered an in-depth discussion on the history of film and pre-production techniques, highlighting that every great film begins with a compelling story.
He also noted the impressive turnout of students eager to learn about filmmaking.
"I'm happy to be here again, and especially with this turnout—sobrang dami! Hopefully, may mga harvest tayo ng new filmmakers in the future," he shared.
Bidlisiw Film-Makers Club’s Official Launch
The workshop also marks a major achievement for the Bidlisiw Film-Makers Club, as it officially launches after years of preparation.
"I'm very glad na nasimulan na ang filmmakers club sa MSU. Parang four years ago pa nag-start ang Bidlisiw, at ngayon lang talaga nag-launch officially," shared Drenzel Calopez, the club’s president.
With over 1,300 students participating in the workshop, Calopez shared the challenges of organizing such a large event.
"Ang daming sleepless nights," he admitted. Despite this, he remains hopeful for the future of filmmaking at MSU-Gensan.
"I'm hoping na mas makilala pa yung filmmaking dito sa university, kasi dumadami na yung filmmakers. Ngayon pa lang talaga siya nabibigyan ng pansin. And I hope, sa near future, magkaroon ng film fest para ma-exhibit yung talents ng students—whether director, actors, or production team. Sana lumago at maging regional, and hopefully, maging national level," he said.
Student Enthusiasm and Insights
Many students expressed their enthusiasm for the workshop, viewing it as a vital step towards their filmmaking aspirations.
Kenneth Magsangkay, a 2nd-year Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies (BAELS) student, said he believes the event is a game-changer.
"I think this event would be a huge help in terms of creating the concept that we want to push through with our film. And I believe that this event really reflects the effectiveness and development of the filmmaking organization, Bidlisiw," Magsangkay shared in an interview.
He also expressed his gratitude for the facilitators of the event, further emphasizing the impact of the workshop on students, saying, “It really helps students—not just to value the filmmaking industry but also to accentuate their interest and passion for filmmaking.”
Upcoming Workshop Highlights
The workshop will continue on March 22-23 and will feature renowned filmmakers and industry professionals.
The second day will focus on film production, including lectures by Dir. Earl Bontuyan. The event will also highlight the featured director Bryan Wong, along with a screening of his film, BANO.
On the final day, the workshop will explore film post-production, with additional lectures from Dir. Antonio Y. Reyes and a Q&A session with industry professionals.
Dir. Alan Filoteo will also present a special screening of his film, The Restless Heron.
With the overwhelming success of the workshop’s first day, the Bidlisiw Film-Makers Club aspires to prove that filmmaking at MSU-Gensan is alive and thriving.
As the workshop continues, participants look forward to gaining insights, refining their skills, and building a growing community of filmmakers within the university.
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