22/05/2026
: TAM DokyuFest 2026 spotlights student voices on shared humanity through 19 documentaries
The FEU IAS Department of Communication staged TAM DokyuFest 2026 with the theme “Visions for a Shared Humanity,” showcasing 19 documentary films produced by third-year Communication students on May 8 at the FEU Plaza.
Students, faculty members, and guests gathered to celebrate documentary filmmaking that explored stories of culture, labor, heritage, and social realities through grounded and human-centered narratives.
Acclaimed documentary filmmaker Babyruth Villarama opened the program with remarks highlighting the importance of truthful storytelling and amplifying marginalized voices through film.
This year also marked the first time the festival was staged at the FEU Plaza, transforming the university’s central space into an open venue for recognition ceremonies.
Multiple awards were presented to recognize outstanding student productions and achievements in documentary filmmaking.
The Best Film award was given to “Balong ng Buhay,” a documentary that follows the struggles of a fisherman affected by reclamation projects in Laguna Lake. The film also earned the Best Director award for director Erin Felitro, recognizing the film’s compelling narrative and grounded portrayal of marginalized communities.
Meanwhile, “Pamanang Pamangan,” directed by Johanna Cien Rivera, was named 1st Runner-Up. The documentary highlights the enduring culinary heritage of Pampanga and the preservation of Kapampangan identity through food traditions. The film also received the Best Cinematography award for its visual storytelling and cultural imagery.
The 2nd Runner-Up award was awarded to “Pihit ng Panahon,” directed by Chloe Cantonjos and Tobit Laggui. The documentary centers on two clock repairmen who restore not only broken timepieces but also the memories and lives connected to them. The film likewise bagged the Best Editing and Best Trailer awards.
Special Jury Prize honors were given to “Sa Pagliit ng Dagat,” directed by Chelzea Alcantara and Shayne Flores. The documentary follows the struggles of fisherfolk communities in Navotas amid ongoing reclamation efforts. The film also won the Best Poster award.
As an annual documentary film festival, TAM DokyuFest aims to amplify student voices and encourage socially responsive storytelling through nonfiction filmmaking. This year’s festival was organized by the FEU Communication Society in partnership with the FEU Department of Communication.
Written by Kirsteen Coleen San Pedro
