Kanulo: A conversation with Joel Aquino

photo by Joel Aquino 

   I first met Joel Aquino last year at the GenSan Summer Film Camp. If I describe him, he is silent but when you got the chance to talk to him, he speaks sensible and sometimes philosophical topics. This guy is a “sleeping giant”, waiting for the right moment to strike with his unique vision as a filmmaker. In an interview, Joel shares about his film Kanulo (Betrayal) and how he overcomes the challenges in making his first (short) film.

What’s your history as a filmmaker? 

First, let me thank you for this chance to speak about my first ever venture in filmmaking. I will say Titanic is the film that let me aspire to become a great director. I was in high school then and my classmates fell in love with it. I saw that several times already but I fell in love with the film as a whole and became interested in making one. I hope I will also have the chance to make big impact on many people as possible. 

My first exposure on how to make a film was when I joined DV8 (Deviate) filmmaking workshop. It was a project sponsored by the National Youth Commission (NYC) which aimed to promote the millennium goals. Unfortunately, I was not able to finish it. But I continued dreaming. 

It took several years before I got the chance to attend a directing workshop. I was in my late 20s already, the time that I already had the financial resource to support this dream. I attended IIFA’s (International Institute for Film and Arts now known as International Institute for Film, Broadcast and Arts) directing, basic cinematography and production management workshops as facilitated by international commercial director Crispo Mojica. Then, I was still perplexed in the process and still quite intimidated. 

Then through Facebook I discovered Film Gym and met the people who supported me on my first attempt. We were taught by commercial and legendary director Serafin Reyes (he founded Mowelfund Film Institute) whom we fondly call Surf. He taught us about visual language. There, we explored creativity and the importance of basics in filmmaking. 

While attending Film Gym, a classmate told me about GenSan Summer Film Workshop which was headed by director Teng Mangansakan. I got excited. Then, there I met you guys and I found you all to be awesome. Salamindanaw was running in my mind. The agreement that we will do a short film was exciting and at the same time, frightening. What marked in my mind was the creation of story. That was developed in me in that workshop. 

A film exercise during the GenSan Summer Film Camp last year 

After Gensan, I also attended TGT (Talento Galing Tondo) Filmmaking Workshop. It was director Tony Reyes (director of many films that made us laugh), who headed this workshop. I joined in teacher/director Gerry Jumawan’s “Luha ng Kahapon” as an Assistant Director (AD). I also supported a friend’s mini-projects as supporting actor, gaffer and producer. 

Right now, I am attending director Armando Bing Lao’s Found Writing Workshop. 

Where did your idea for Kanulo’s plot come from? 

It was sir Borgy who suggested me to do a horror film project. He said that it’s not common in film festivals. I related that to my past experience of a friend getting possessed. While developing the story I picked up a lot of cues from online resources. Pretty much it is a real life story with spices. 

A scene from Kanulo (Betrayal) 

Can you tell me the challenges that you and your crew encountered during the shooting of the film. 

This is hard to tell but I will be honest that we had encountered a great one. During the shoot we encountered heavy rains, a typhoon was ravaging Luzon. Financial constraint was also a big hindrance. I thought that it will just be a breeze filming Kanulo but it was not the case. We had to re-shoot everything because we’re changing locations. Our budget was just for 2 days but the shoot extended to 5 days and we ran out of cash. Luckily, our Production Designer Icx lent his house so we can complete the said project. Thanks Icx. 

What did you learn from this project? 

As the director of the project I had learned a lot especially dealing with people. There were personal concerns that are until now not yet resolved but I am hoping for the wounds to heal in due time. 

Kanulo is supposed to be screened last year in the 1st Salamindanaw International Film festival. Can you tell me what happened? 

It was an unfortunate situation that Kanulo did not make it for the Salamindanaw International Film Festival. I felt devastated. We had a hard time getting that edited. I just had that project edited early this year. I studied editing for the sake of getting that done but eventually I outsourced the service. Perhaps, it is really not meant to be. 

The suicide scene (photo by Joel Aquino)

I notice your film has good make up and prosthetic. How did you prepare for it? 

I would like to give the credit to Icx Icay, this guy is really talented. He was our Production Designer and special effects master in that project. He’s also part of Lav Diaz’s Norte. It surprised me that he is into Philippine mythology. It helped me channel the feel of Kanulo. Also, my Director of Photography Oliver Cruz, he contributed a lot to the Kanulo project visually. 

Describe Kanulo in one word. 

Choice. 

What’s your dream film project? 

I love to make a film as lavish as Game of Thrones and the likes of Cameron and Bay’s films. l look forward to creating an Asian film similar to Avatar. That’s my visual preference. I understand Filipinos delve more into real life stories, I think I will veer away from that. For now, I can’t really tell and I am about to discover more. 

After Kanulo, what’s next? 

I am looking forward to getting into Cinemalaya and Cannes but much more I love my works to be seen by as many people as possible around the world. I love my name to ring in the ears of many people. I dream to capture the heart of the people through film and the like. That will be my dream. I plan to go mainstream but I am still building my portfolio. 

What advice would give to those who want to pursue filmmaking? 

It is never too late to achieve your dreams. At the age of 30, I am just getting started. Just do it. Rock on!

-KANULO (BETRAYAL)-

Synopsis: 

In life we are always posed with two choices: to gain or to lose. The story revolves around the lives of two friends who were left with a choice that matters a life and death. 

This started when a group of friends dared to call a spirit. They didn’t know that what they called was a fallen angel. This incident caused a breakup in their friendship and family. Jonas was sent to province and got renewed while Job had a hell-like life. Those who cared for him during his struggle died. This forced him to revenge on his birthday.

CAST & CREW 

Director

Joel Aquino

Producers 

Joel Aquino

Henry Iporac

Writers

Joel Aquino

Jane Mariel Andes

Asst. Director

Jennifer Dabu

Cinematographer

Oliver Cruz

1st Asst. Camera

Julienne Rei Sabiniano

Gaffer 

Eugene Adalia

Production Design

Jose Francis “Icx” Icay

Special Effects

Jose Francis “Icx” Icay

Audio

Henry Iporac

Editors 

Jillene Martin Baniqued

Regina Navarrete

Direk Teng Mangansakan

Script Consultant

Storyboard Artists 

Eugene Adalia

Jason Daño

Production Manager 

Jennifer Dabu

Location Manager 

Jose Francis “Icx” Icay

Leo Dilay

Jennifer Dabu

Behind the scenes 

Francis Lumahan

Henry Iporac

Eugene Adalia

Yul Roque

Leo Dilay

Support Staff 

Sherwin Ferrer

-Cast of Characters-

Jonas - Danilo V. Hernandez Jr. 

Job - Leonard Tabigue 

Luna - Julienne Rei Sabiniano 

Bal/Devil - Arthur P. Padillo 

Flagellant #1 - Joseph O. Moslares Jr. 

Flagellant #2 - Manny ‘Macky’ Peñaredondo 

Nona - Roan Kate Villalon 

Grandma - Rosalina Royo 

Dark entity - Jose Francis “Icx” Icay 

Pastor - Joel Aquino 

Friends - Jennifer Dabu & Rex ‘Noy’ Villadares 

-Special Thanks to: 

Jeffrey Sonora & Roxanne Roman 

FPJ Studios 

Icay Family 

Royo Family 

Dilay Family 

Meika Catog 

Chairman and Barangay Council, Barangay Onse, San Juan City 

Natividad Subd. Homeowners Association, Deparo, Caloocan City

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An Interview with Batang Polomolok

   It’s a rare moment to meet a man like Steven Rae H. Bañares or popularly known as Batang Polomolok (BP). His works shows uniqueness and creativity that benefited much of the people in the Municipality of Polomolok. His love for his hometown speaks a lot about him. 

   I first heard BP through Rommel Tesoro when we were working in a magazine last year. When he uttered that name, I got curious and excited to meet the guy that he always talks about. Until recently, I got the chance to meet him through Nanardxz. I did not regret it because I have enjoyed hanging out with him. 

   Steven graduated at the University of the East-Manila, with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. Before he became Public Servant and Photographer, he was an OFW working as an Accountant in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For four years of working aboard, he went back to the Philippines and work for another three years as Senior Accountant in a company based in Makati City.

   Traveling helps him realize that he has a passion for photography. His experience as an OFW led him to the idea of Batang Polomolok. So he went back to his hometown to pursue his passion. 

   When he was in Polomolok, he took photos of people, events and landmarks to promote the municipality and at the same time give updates to the OFWs whose hometown is Polomolok. 

   “If taga Polomolok jud ka, taga Polomolok jud ka”, as he said (If you’re from Polomolok, you’re really from Polomolok.). 

   He understands that if you’re an OFW, you will miss your country especially you’re hometown. Through his photography, he helps ease the loneliness of Filipinos working abroad. 

   On July 30, 2012, he created Batang Polomolok Facebook Page. Through that Facebook page, BP became a brand that still recognizable not only to the OFWs but also to the people of SOCCSKSARGEN. 

   “I got the inspiration of the title Batang Polomolok from popular liquor (TV) commercial”, he said. “Rommel helped me design the logo, and then launched it online. I made a gimmick to gain more likes. At first, there were only 100 likes and eventually it reached thousands,” he added. 

   Because of the popularity of BP he became a “public figure”. “Before it is difficult to take photos from people because I am not known and they do not like the idea of it. Now that efforts of Batang Polomolok have been recognize, they are now willing to be photographed and be featured in the BP Facebook page,” he said. His popularity leads him to become endorser of local products and business establishments in Polomolok. 

   Steven is not merely a photographer. He is a photographer for a cause. He uses his photography to influence people to see things in a different perspective. For example, when he was invited in a Bikini Open, he took a photo of child watching the said event. This photo sparked controversy because of the child involved in the photo. It caught the attention of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) Office of Polomolok. “The photo is not intended to condemn the event”, he said. “It was just that the event is not appropriate to conduct in a highway. From the name itself, it is supposed to be conducted in an exclusive area like in a resort or beach. They should consider whether there is a minor watching. Moreover, the personnel who are responsible of releasing permits in this kind of show should consider this matter,” he added.

   Aside from his advocacy photography, he is also into wedding photography. His dream is to do a wedding project in the Bahamas. When I asked him if his Professional fee is higher, he only laughs and recounts the days when he was starting. “When I was starting as a photographer, I volunteer (and continuously doing) to document events and landmarks to help promote Polomolok. I did not mind any compensation because I am happy and willing to help the municipality,” he pointed out. Noel Nacion, Jommel Gregorio and Park Cruz are his influences and at the same time his inspiration to do his craft effectively and passionately. 

   Currently, Steven works in the Local Government Unit of Polomolok. Because of his versatility, he is not only working in the Mayor’s office (under Hon. Honey Lumayag-Matti), but also in Public Information Office (PIO) and in Tourism Department. His love for Polomolok fuels his ideas to conceptualize more of tourism activities and other promotional initiatives. 

   Despite his success and recognition he remains humble. With this status that he now reaches, it is expected that bashers and haters are ready to devour him. “You cannot please everyone. Some people are not fond of my photos. They are busy finding its flaws and not concentrating on its good contribution,” he said. For me, there is no perfect picture. It depends on the eyes of the photographer and his/her emotion when he/she captures a moment. I ignore it, but sometimes when it gets too personal, I stand what’s right. So don’t get easily discourage of bashers,” he affirmed. “Instead thank them because they are the one who motivates you to do well”, he pointed out. “Push lang nang push”. Furthermore, he uses his popularity to influence people. For example, he used his Facebook page to help gather donations for the victims of typhoon Yolanda. He did not expect that his Facebook shout out would gain more response and donations. 

   I enjoyed chatting with him because it’s fun and refreshing. Our conversation ended up because my phone rang. That time I realized that I have meeting to attend. When we separate ways, I still think his words. His story still resonates in my mind. I admire his dedication to help his hometown.

This article is originally written for SouthCotabatoNews.com 

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Pegasus: The Behind the Scenes Interview

The behind the scene interview 

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Pegasus: The Behind the Scenes

   Making a music video is a dream come true. Collaborating with smart and talented artist like Making Bianca inspires me in many ways. Our busy schedules are not a hindrance to shoot the music video. I am thankful that I collaborated with smart and cool artists who prefer to spend their time creatively for the love of art. 

   I do not expect that my first music video would be as spectacular as what we have seen in MTV. As the resources dictates, I need to be resourceful and creative to have desired output. Luckily, the cast and crew was really good to work with despite some problems arise during the shoot. 

   During the shoot of the video, it is expected that problems may rise. So the challenge is how you will solve it in a creative way. For example, the lead actress was not present during the second day of the shooting. We did not know what motivates her to act that way. Before we separate ways in the first day of shoot, it was clear to all of us that we still have second day shoot and we should come early. With that incident, I prepared my Plan B to cover up the “damage”. 

-Behind the scenes photos of PEGASUS-

   Given that I do not have equipment like DSLR camera, I have concepts and ideas that are worth sharing. As of now, equipment is not my priority. I am more concern on finding the right team to collaborate with. If you have solid, smart, creative, fun and easy to work teammates, for me it’s like winning in a lottery. Camera and other equipment are easy to find if you have money, but a great team is not.

   I am really blessed that J.Leonida was there and lend not only her camera but also her time and skills to be my Cinematographer in the music video. “It is my first time to make a music video”, as she said. She does not have an experience for shooting a video. Throughout the process of making a music video, we are all learning from each other. No overlapping of tasks. We work harmoniously for the anticipated outcome. I am also thankful that the Political Science students of MSU-GenSan were really supportive of Making Bianca. To show their support, most of them starred in the music video. 

Meeting the Band

   I first met Andrew Yatar and Arjay Lim (of Making Bianca) at the Mindanao State University (GenSan) campus. Harlem Jude Ferolino (The Voice of the Youth-GenSan) and Ronnie Barrientos (GenSan Youth Network) introduced me to them. I get interested of primarily because I am motivated to do a music video and finding the right artist to be featured in it. It is a good thing that the band has original compositions that have great lyrics. Since they are Political Science students, some of their songs reflect the social flaws of the Philippine society. Their themes and subjects really inspire me to pursue directing their video. 

   Before we shoot the video, I first consulted them about the concept. I interviewed them and asked some questions related to their band and their songs. As a director, I make a point that I consulted the artist what he/she would like to incorporate in the video. After that, I conceptualize and interpret it visually to the have desired output. I am honored that they loved the concept. 

The Lesson

   I have learned a lot from shooting this video. I do not spend my time and energy to those wannabes whose job is to pretend that they are passionate about their craft. Whether photography, modeling or any other art medium, a true artist transcends despite all the odds. He/she is not concerned whether he/she gets paid or become famous after the shoot. In short, passion speaks for itself.

The Video

   Here's the music video that we have created. I hope that you will enjoy it and reflect on its message. 

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Pegasus by Making Bianca

Iguoi Films, LS Media Productions and in partnership with J. Leonida present – the PEGASUS music video. Song by Making Bianca – an independent band from Mindanao State University-GenSan. Enjoy! 

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Cocoy Sexcion: A Photographer with the eyes of a god

   It’s a rare opportunity to meet a photographer where his/her passion speaks for itself. This kind of photographer is not conscious with his/her camera, but shows real enthusiasm in taking photos. One of them is Leonardo “Cocoy” Sexcion. He is more than a photographer. He is an artist with eyes of a god. His photography transcends among his contemporaries.

   Cocoy started in photography in 2004 with no equipment. His passion and determination help him a lot in pursuing his craft. At first he used film camera to shoot different majestic scenery in Sarangani, until such time that he purchased his first digital camera in 2005 (Nikon D70s). “For me, photography is more than just light and composition, it is the real life I want to capture at the right moment and that’s what we want people to see, to inspire them more than just to remember,” Cocoy said.

   For 9 years, he worked with Sarangani Provincial Information Office as Chief Photographer and at the same time Editor in Chief for photography (during the reign of former Gov. Miguel Dominguez). Outside government service, among his past and existing clientele includes Smart Communications – Public Affairs Office; Davao International Container Terminal; Info-Arch Communications (a Manila-based PR firm that has captured aerial shots of TADECO Banana plantation as well as ports/wharfs in Davao); VSM Realty Corporation; and Communications Group of Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC). “I wanted to capture the positive side of life. I wanted people to appreciate ordinary and little things through my photography,” Cocoy added.

   With his love for this craft, he received a lot of recognitions in the local and national scene. For example he won as Best Entry (Values Category- Professional Division) at Standard Chartered Bank Nationwide Photo Contest last 2012. He also won 1st Place in the recent SarBay Festival Photo contest (Sarangani Category). With these achievements he still remains humble and open for collaboration with other artists. It is no wonder that his clients always remain loyal to him. He makes sure that they are always satisfied and happy for his output. He sees his clients not just a mere client but a friend. In short, he is in demand freelance photographer. “I just let my craft to do the talking, I take photos to ‘express not to impress’”, Cocoy asserted.

   His influences in photography are Bobby Timonera, from whom he learned the basics in taking photographs, George Tapan, who taught him the ambient light to make photos and David Black whom he learned creative lighting in the absence of ideal natural lighting.

   When taking photos, first he needs to visualize it. He does his research about the area that he wants to shoot. He checks if there’s enough lighting and he is always open for new perspective to have a new angle/story, so that the outcome will be memorable and unique.

   As a photographer, one of his advocacies is to promote places that are worth promoting. For example, he takes photos of different places in Sarangani with no pay. His love for the province motivates him to have great shots. Camera does not matter to him. He puts more emphasis on the concept and ideas behind the photo. “Owning a camera doesn’t automatically make you a photographer. It just makes you a Canon or Nikon owner or whatever brand you prefer,” Cocoy said.

   Aside for being a photographer, he has natural inclination for music. He had a band called MIGS, and he was the lead guitarist and lyricist of the group.

   I admire Cocoy’s love for photography. He is one of the photographers that I have known to have genuine interest on it. He remains humble and he let his photos speak for themselves. He will inspire more aspiring photographers to take this craft seriously at the same enjoying it, and discourage the “camera conscious” idea in their minds. He is a one of a kind artist we should be proud of.

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Laag (Stroll)

A tour around SOCCSKSARGEN. This is my 2013 year-end short film. 

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