With a steadfast commitment to not only enrich the e-commerce landscape and equip entrepreneurs, but also nurture local talents, arts, and culture, Lazada mounted the "Add to Life" Film Competition, designed to ignite the aspirations of budding filmmakers and amplify their creative voices.

The competition invited student filmmakers to pitch their short film ideas for the chance to win a Php 1 Million grant and produce their film under the mentorship of director, producer, and screenwriter, Pepe Diokno. From a diverse and talented pool of young filmmakers from every corner of the Philippines, 19-year old student Jerry Myer Mina, who attends the Lyceum of the Philippines University, emerged as the winner. His film "Regalo" is set to be released in November.

Meet the Visionaries Who Shaped the Competition

Three distinguished judges played pivotal roles in guiding and evaluating the participants. They included Christopher "Toff" de Venecia, Congressman of the 4th District of Pangasinan and the principal author of The Philippine Creative Industries Act, Samantha Lee, a prominent figure in the industry as a writer, director, and producer, and Missy Maramara, an accomplished educator, actor, and director. This esteemed panel presided over the presentation of entries, which took place on September 14 at the Lazada Philippines headquarters.

Samantha Lee expressed her fervent hope to amplify a broader spectrum of unique voices among young filmmakers. She said, "Moving forward, I look forward to hearing a more diverse range of voices, not only in terms of SOGIE diversity but also in the locations where these films are shot, the languages spoken, and the cities represented."

De Venecia envisions a future where local creatives lead the way in shaping world-class art by embracing and showcasing the rich tapestry of Filipino culture and heritage. "My hope is that more creatives will authentically showcase Filipino culture in contemporary forms and styles," he expressed.

Lazada's Support for Local Talent

The Add to Life Film Competition is a testament to Lazada's ESG commitment, particularly under the Social pillar, demonstrating their dedication to celebrating and elevating local talent, arts, and culture.

Missy Maramara underscores the significance of offering a platform for young creatives to enable them to bring their stories to life. "It's wonderful that they are being provided with every opportunity and possibility because they represent the emerging voices, and they are the ones who will shape our future," she emphasized.

The competition holds particular significance as it coincides with the Department of Trade and Industry's Philippine Creative Industries Month this September, for which Lazada pledged its dedication during a recently concluded meeting with DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual.

Lazada reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ongoing collaboration with the DTI in the mission to elevate local creatives, beginning with its support for the Young Creatives Challenge and the Philippine Creativity and Innovation Convention.