PROUD TO BE FILIPINO,” SYLVIA SANCHEZ DECLARES AT THE 31ST BUSAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

“PROUD TO BE FILIPINO,” SYLVIA SANCHEZ DECLARES AT THE 31ST BUSAN INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA — Veteran actress and film producer Sylvia Sanchez-Atayde proudly declared her love for the Philippines as she walked the red carpet of the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), promoting three films co-produced by Nathan Studios: RIA, Nagi Notes, and Filipiñana.

Sanchez was joined by fellow Filipino actress Nour Hooshmand, along with cinematographer Jellen Geviane De Vera and other members of the production teams, as they showcased Filipino talent on the international cinema stage.
“It’s time to level up and conquer the international film market. So proud to be a Filipino,” Sanchez said, expressing her happiness and gratitude for the recognition given to the films she helped bring to the global audience.
She also thanked the people who supported their projects and the international partners who gave Filipino filmmakers the opportunity to participate in the prestigious festival.

‘RIA’ SELECTED FOR VISION ASIA COMPETITION

Among the featured films was RIA, co-produced by Nathan Studios and directed by Arvin Belarmino. The film explores urbanization, poverty, displacement, music, and human rights—issues that resonate with communities worldwide.
Sanchez portrays Olga, a matriarch suffering from diabetes who lives in a Manila community threatened by demolition. She is cared for by Ria, played by Hooshmand, a young musician who fights to protect her community from displacement.

Sanchez expressed hope that Filipino audiences would support the film, which was selected for BIFF’s Vision Asia competition.
The 95-minute film is an international co-production involving the Philippines, the Netherlands, Norway, Saudi Arabia, and Japan. It features Iana Bernardez, Veronica Reyes, Anastasia Bartolome, Kevin Regalado, Soliman Cruz, Paolo O’Hara, RS Magtaan, and Andre Miguel, among others.

FILIPINO TALENT TAKES CENTER STAGE
Nathan Studios also co-produced Nagi Notes, directed by Japanese filmmaker Koji Fukada, as part of a Philippine-Japanese film collaboration.

Another featured production was Filipiñana, directed by Rafael Manuel and co-produced by Nathan Studios. The participation of these films at BIFF highlights the growing presence of Filipino talents and producers in international cinema, opening opportunities for collaboration and bringing Philippine stories to a wider audience.

During the red-carpet event, Sanchez wore a black dress with a matching cape, while Hooshmand appeared in a strapless orange gown.

The 31st Busan International Film Festival featured films from around the world and hosted the Asian Contents & Film Market, providing opportunities for filmmakers, producers, and industry professionals to establish international partnerships.
Through these productions, Sanchez and Nathan Studios continue to demonstrate their commitment to promoting Filipino artistry and bringing Philippine cinema to the global stage.