My dear Ilonggos and Ilonggas!
Even if some of you had already the chance to watch and experience the mesmerizing and memorable effects of the film on Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria and Her kindred and miraculous powers, it is more rewarding and empowering that the movie is also shown outside the region to share its socio-cultural significance.
The 2025 Sinag Maynila Film Festival has reeled off in several theaters in Metro Manila and Kevin Pison Piamonte's masterpiece, "Caden" is one of the five official entries to the Full-Length Division of the fest.
Of course, "Caden" isn't totally a narrative on the core religiosity of the Ilonggos and the surrounding social realities but it is a reflection of life of the residents of Iloilo City.
It is also a testament on the migration of Ilonggos to many parts of the world and the stories they weave along the way.
In reel narrative, here's a successful Filipino chef in the US who returns to his hometown in Iloilo Province to bury his childhood's best friend.
In the process, he must decide on rendering forgiveness to a person he has been attached to, in more ways than one, whether in-person or virtual.
The haunting story would surely reverberates not only among Ilonggos but generally Filipinos as well.
During the presentation of the trailer of the film and its director, Kevin was in his presentable self--in elegant white suit and confident stance.
He said that he came all the way from Iloilo to represent his work to the big city and its moviegoers.
Without verbalizing it, though, Kevin was saying he wants his fellow Filipinos to watch his film because it will surely relate to them.
In his posts, Piamonte uploaded videos and photos of the screening of his film to his kababayans who were very supportive of his endeavor.
At first, Kevin admitted he was nervous his work would not click even among his fellow Ilonggos but he was wrong.
The reception was tremendous so he wanted to share the enthusiasm and excitement that would extend to the imperial Manilans.
Dear Manileños and Manileñas:
Let us support Kevin and "Caden."
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews #SinagMaynilaFilmFest2025 #Imagery