A student-produced short film by Communication students from UP Cebu has been selected for streaming on the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Channel – JuanFlix as part of Academedia: Sana, Nais, Nasa, a curated showcase of ten student short films from across the country exploring the many meanings of desire. The collection is available for free streaming through JuanFlix until July 27, 2026, highlighting emerging Filipino filmmakers and the creative voices shaping the future of Philippine cinema.
Representing the UP Cebu Communication Program is Basig Ugma Na (2025), a short film produced under Comm 105 – Multimedia Production by Bugtaw Productions, with the guidance of Instructor JT Trinidad. Directed by Kisha Dela Liña, the film brings together the collaborative efforts of Communication students in crafting a socially resonant narrative that reflects both their creative and technical training in multimedia storytelling.
The film stars Jen Blog-at, Maine Marmol, Kristel Dela Lina, Kristel Gastador, Learjet Dela Cruz, James Samuel Villarin, Joshua Eli Narajos, Precious Sheira Mendiola, Vince Aguilar, and Chris Glyde Monte. It was written by Alexandre Louise Lawas, produced by Francine Chavez, and co-produced by Saturnreturn. The production is also supported by Production Manager Jada Guion, cinematographers Iya Gales and Kisha Dela Liña, set designers Salome Anne Lepiten, Kisha Dela Liña, Snafu, Hazel Bergantin, and Zee Abracosa, with Rhyz Crysania Nakila serving as assistant director.
Set within the confines of a small-town lotto outlet, Basig Ugma Na follows a diverse group of individuals whose hopes are pinned on a winning ticket. As what begins as a harmless routine gradually transforms into obsession, the film unravels the devastating consequences of unchecked desire, revealing how aspirations can become sources of personal and collective tragedy. Through its compelling narrative, the film invites audiences to reflect on themes of hope, desperation, and the risks that emerge when dreams become all-consuming.
Prior to its inclusion in the FDCP Channel lineup, Basig Ugma Na was also featured during the 6th DukiTuki Forum 2026 under Parallel Session G – Film Screening, contributing to the forum’s theme, “Communicating Risk, Living with Disaster: Voices, Vulnerabilities, and Futures in Cebu.” Its screening demonstrated how student films can serve as critical platforms for examining social issues and fostering conversations on risk, resilience, and community realities.
The inclusion of Basig Ugma Na in FDCP Channel – JuanFlix’s Academedia collection marks another milestone for the UP Cebu Communication Program, showcasing the creativity, technical excellence, and storytelling capabilities of its students on a national platform.
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