A team of first-year students from Saint Louis University’s (SLU) Bachelor of Multimedia Arts (BMMA) program of the School of Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies (SAMCIS) gained national recognition as finalist in the 21st CineMapúa Student Short Film Festival, one of the most prestigious student filmmaking competitions in the Philippines.
The team’s entry—a compelling documentary directed by Daniel Amanbert Galut—was selected as a finalist for its sensitive and socially relevant portrayal of two teenagers living with HIV. Told through the stories of Melvin and Allen (pseudonyms), the film explores the emotional and societal challenges faced by youth navigating love, illness, and stigma in the digital age.
Produced by Unang Kahon Productions, the documentary is the result of a collaborative effort by a group of highly motivated first-year BMMA students at Saint Louis University.
Each team member brought their creativity and technical expertise to the production, demonstrating the power of student collaboration in tackling complex and often underrepresented social topics through film.
The film was screened as part of the festival at the following venues:
Screening Dates: May 19, 20, 21, and 23, 2025
Venues:
- AVR 1, AVR 2, and AVR 3, Mapúa University Intramuros
- Mapúa Cardinal Cinema, Mapúa University Makati
The Awards Ceremony was held on Thursday, 22 May 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Mapúa University Intramuros Gymnasium.
Although the SLU team did not win a major award, being chosen as a finalist is a significant achievement. Their documentary not only showcases their artistic potential but also reinforces the role of the arts in addressing public health and social justice issues.
The success of Unang Kahon Productions at CineMapúa underscores the importance of empowering students to create with purpose. By combining storytelling, design, music, and animation, the team has amplified voices that are too often unheard—and reminded us all that young creatives have the power to lead conversations that matter.
The project reflects SLU’s commitment to developing socially responsible creatives whose work engages with real-world issues. The film also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being and Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities, by raising awareness about HIV and advocating for compassion, inclusion, and health equity.
Unang Kahon Productions – Production Team
- Director & Editor: Daniel Amanbert Galut
- Cinematographer: Ethan Palitayan
- Assistant Producer: Melizza Bogsulen
- Lead Motion Graphics: Davidjon Paragas
- Lead Animation Artist: Candice Rosario
- Original Musical Score: Shanaia Arellano
- Poster Design: Hermione Namay, Alliah Jean Celestino, Giovanie Turingan
Saint Louis University proudly congratulates Daniel Amanbert Galut and the entire Unang Kahon Productions team for this outstanding accomplishment. (Article and Photos by SAMCIS)
