The 10 finalists of the 9th Indie-Siyensya—the country’s first and only science filmmaking competition—are set to premiere Oct. 7 to 11 at the Cinematheque Centre Bacolod, with simultaneous free screenings also happening at Cinematheque Centers in Davao, Nabunturan, and Iloilo.
Now in its 9th edition, this competition, held under the Department of Science and Technology-Science Education Institute, features emerging and experienced filmmakers who creatively explore scientific topics through film. This year’s theme, “Halik sa Lupa,” features entries that explore the vital connections between soil, life, and humanity.
A total of 120 entries were received from across the country. Entries included science explainers and documentaries on soil biodiversity, sustainable farming methods, and indigenous ecological practices.
The following are the finalists for this year’s Indie-Siyensya edition:
Youth category: “Abo’t Ani,” directed by Eula Frances A. Macabodbod (Valencia National High School); “Lupang Hinirang,” directed by Lawrence C. Delos Santos (Labrador National High School); “Panagtubo: Ang Kwento ng Buhay na Lupa,” directed by Areli Joanna A. Asuncion (Tuguegarao City Science High School); “Punso,” directed by Maria Felicitti S. Sta. Catalina (Rizal National Science High School), and; “Soil Biodiversity: Buhay sa Ilalim, Bumubuhay sa Ibabaw,” directed by Bernice Shayne M. Dela Cruz (Pasig City Science High School).
In the open category: “Damayan,” directed by Celine R. Murillo; “Hinubog ng Lupa,” directed by Angelo Gabriel F. Cortes; “Munting Yaman,” directed by Raymond B. Balagosa; “Sa Duta sang Kabuhi,” directed by Steve C. Villasor, and; “Tabi-Tabi Po,” directed by James Mark Caponpon
All films will also be available for free online streaming via JuanFlix (juanflix.com.ph) from Oct. 12 to 31, 2025. Viewers can register on the platform to vote for their favorite entry.
Winners of this year’s Indie-Siyensya competition will be announced in November 2025. (Story courtesy of DOST-SEI Media Relations)