Ilonggo filmmaker Prof. Kevin Piamonte, a faculty member of the University of the Philippines Visayas’ Division of Humanities, won “Best Screenplay” for the film “Cande” at the International Film Festival Manhattan NYC (IFFM) 2025 held last December 2025.
The IFFM is a film festival event based in Manhattan, New York that features diverse voices and international filmmakers, presenting feature films, shorts, and documentaries from around the world.
Cande scored two big wins at the IFFM 2025 as actor JC Santos, who plays “Timothy” in the film, won “Best Actor.”
Candé tells the emotional story of Timothy’s return to Iloilo, where he confronts his past and seeks redemption. His story is tied to the devotion of the Ilonggo community to Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of Candles).
Along with Santos, the film stars Sunshine Teodoro, Gian Pomperada, Jan Junash Delima, Julian Paul Larroder, Tres Arandela, Rachel Santillan, Laragene Servando-Retazo, and Sharon Idone, with the special participation of Pupa Dadivas.
The film was produced by ERK Film Production, Fiesta Philippines, and Taos Puso Foundation, Inc., together with the Film Development Council of the Philippines and CreatePH Films. Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida and Ms. Rhea Peñaflorida are the executive producers.
In a Facebook post, ERK Film Production said, “These recognitions mean so much to us. Candè is a film rooted in quiet truths, difficult emotions, and deeply human moments — and to see its writing and performance honored on an international stage is both humbling and affirming.”
“To everyone who has supported Candè, thank you for believing in our stories. Padayon,” ERK Film Production said.
Written by Carlson Alelis, IPO; with sources from ERK Film Production
Screenshot courtesy of PHLV Radio/IFFM
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