Baby Ruth Villarama’s documentary “Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea” official poster | Contributed photo
Baby Ruth Villarama’s “Food Delivery, Fresh from the West Philippine Sea,” the only documentary entry, withdrew from the 2nd CinePanalo two days before the opening of the film festival.
Festival director Chris Cahilig and Villarama announced the documentary’s exit in a joint statement on Wednesday, March 12, stating that “external factors played a role” in the situation.
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“We regret to confirm that ‘Food Delivery, Fresh from the West Philippine Sea’ has been pulled out from the CinePanalo Festival. While the decision was made jointly by the festival organizers and film creators, it is clear that external factors played a role in this outcome,” they wrote.
Cahilig and Villarama expressed that they “appreciate” the continued support from those who believe in the film’s importance and will be announcing alternative screenings for the documentary as soon as possible.
Last month, the first teaser for the documentary was released as it aims to offer a glimpse into the hardships of Filipino fishermen and the nation’s struggle to defend its territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea.
“From the fishermen risking their lives to feed their families to the Coast Guard and Navy personnel delivering food to the soldiers on remote outposts, Food Delivery illustrates the shared sacrifice and the collective love we all have to protect our way of life,” said Villarama adding that sovereignty is not just a political issue.
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With the exit of Villarama’s “Food Delivery,” the festival’s full-length category line-up now only include “Olsen’s Day,” starring Khalil Ramos, JC Santos’ “Journeyman,” Mes de Guzman’s “Sepak Takraw,” “Co-Love,” starring Alexa Ilacad and KD Estrada, “Fleeting,” starring Janella Salvador and RK Bagatsing, TM Malones’ “Salum,” and Tara Illenberger’s “Tigkiliwi.”
Additionally, 25 student directors will be competing in the student shorts category.
The 2025 CinePanalo Film Festival will run from March 14–25 at the Gateway Cineplex 18 in Cubao, Quezon City.
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