On November 11, 2024, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. extended a warm recognition to the creative minds behind the documentary Siete Palabras, during a courtesy call at the Mayor’s Office. Director Jayson Gantan Pabalan and producer Nicanor Abelardo Soriano, who also serves as the Barangay Lourdes Northwest (LNW) Captain, were each awarded certificates of recognition for their contribution to preserving local culture and faith through the power of film.
The documentary Siete Palabras, which centers on the religious traditions and the deep-rooted community spirit of Barangay LNW, was recently honored with the Jury Award for Best Documentary at the prestigious International Film Festival Manhattan 2024. The film’s poignant storytelling and its ability to capture the heart of the community’s religious practices garnered praise from both judges and audiences alike.
In recognition of their outstanding achievement, Mayor Lazatin presented Pabalan and Soriano with cash incentives worth P25,000 each. This gesture, part of the Mayor’s continued support for local artists, acknowledges their dedication to creating works that not only highlight the city’s heritage but also elevate it on the international stage.
Siete Palabras was celebrated not only for its technical prowess but also for its cultural significance, showcasing how the community’s religious observances have shaped its identity and continued to foster a sense of unity among its residents. The film is a testament to the power of storytelling in preserving traditions and bridging generations.
Mayor Lazatin expressed his pride in the filmmakers’ work and emphasized the importance of supporting such artistic endeavors. He reiterated that through various programs and initiatives, his administration remains committed to promoting projects that honor Angeles City’s cultural heritage and contribute to the global appreciation of the city’s stories.
The city government’s backing for the film industry and local artistic projects continues to grow, with an eye toward encouraging more films, documentaries, and other creative works that can capture the attention of international audiences. The Mayor also highlighted the need for future projects that inspire not only Angeleños but also the broader global community, showcasing the city’s rich history and the talents of its people.
As the city celebrates this achievement, it also signals a renewed commitment to the arts, with hopes of nurturing more creative endeavors that will put Angeles City in the spotlight for years to come. The success of Siete Palabras has proven that the artistic community in Angeles City has much to offer and that their stories, grounded in faith and tradition, resonate far beyond the city’s borders.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
