SENATE TO COMMEND LAV DIAZ FOR WINNING IN BERLIN FILM FEST - ANGARA

Senator Sonny Angara is set to file a resolution congratulating and commending Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz for winning the Silver Bear Alfred Bauer Prize at the 66th Berlin International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany for his eight-hour historical epic "Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis (Lullaby to Sorrowful Mystery)."

The Silver Bear Alfred Bauer Prize, an award given to "a feature film that opens new perspectives on cinematic art," was received by the "Hele" team headed by Diaz, Executive Producer Paul Soriano, and the cast ensemble led by John Lloyd Cruz, Piolo Pascual, Angel Aquino, Cherie Gil, Alessandra de Rossi, Bernardo Bernardo, Susan Africa, among others.

"Filipino films are once again making waves in the international scene. Talagang iba ang galing ng Pinoy. Nararapat lamang na kilalanin natin at bigyang papuri ang mga bumuo sa pelikulang ito na nagwagi ng prestihiyosong parangal mula sa Berlin Film Festival," Angara said.

"Hele" is set in the late 19th century at the period of the Philippine revolution against Spanish rule and highlights the influence of Andres Bonifacio during the uprising.

The film, which runs for more than eight hours, is the longest film to ever compete at the prestigious Berlin film festival.

Diaz, who was born and raised in Mindanao, has directed more than a dozen films, which mostly focus on the social and political struggles of the Philippines, and has earned various awards and admiration from both local and international film festivals.

"This achievement by Diaz, Soriano, the other producers as well as the cast and crew of 'Hele' deserves to be recognized for bringing pride and honor anew to the country, and for showcasing to the world exceptional Filipino talent and excellence," Angara said.