The Freeport Area of Bataan (FAB) aims to become the cradle of creative and artistic filmmakers of Bataan as it hosted the first FAB Film Festival (FFF) at the at the AFAB Administration Building in Mariveles, Bataan on 14 October 2025.

Spearheaded by AFAB and in partnership with the BTN Association, the festival has opened a new chapter for Bataan’s creative community with the province’s first local film festival featuring ten original short films by Bataeño filmmakers.

AFAB Administrator and CEO Hussein Pangandaman opened the program, emphasizing that the festival reflects AFAB’s belief that economic zones can be spaces not only for production and enterprise but also for creative expression.

The event was also attended by members of the AFAB management team, including Deputy Administrator for Support Services Ma. Lourdes Herrera, Deputy Administrator for Operations Attorney Michael Angelo Paderanga, Office of the Administrator Group Head Attorney Percival Peralta, and Chief of Staff Augusto Kimpo, who all expressed their support for the filmmakers.

In his remarks, BTN representative Gabriel Guevarra commended AFAB for mounting what he described as the “first of its kind” in Bataan, highlighting the festival’s open-theme concept that encouraged diverse forms of storytelling.

Among the judges present during the screening was acclaimed filmmaker Joel Ferrer, who shared that he was impressed by the range and energy of the entries. “There’s a lot of heart in these films. I hope this festival continues to grow and open more opportunities for young filmmakers,” he said.

The ten short films presented at the premiere explored varied perspectives of life, identity, and community through storytelling that was both distinct and relatable. 

The ten featured films were:

• Para sa Paborito Kong Putahe by Erika Ann Bautista (Salimpusa Production)

• Daluyong by Erwin Jericho Arceo (Sine Kundiman)

• Maiba Taya by Emir Canlas (EC Films)

• Tayo sa Dilim by Satoru Corilla (BlueSky Productions)

• Kubli by Billy Oyanib (One Man Films)

• Isang Kilo by Jeyk Esperanza (Obra Production)

• Tagahulo by Lemmor Miguel Vitug (Cinemmon Films)

• As If We Never Left by Marvin Rei Panes (Nostalgia Cartel)

• Resume by Michael Angelo Cervantes (CAMAC Production)

• Kuwentong Multo by Dexter Paul De Jesus (Ciete Cinco Creatives)

The event closed with a message from Attorney Percival Peralta, who commended the filmmakers for turning their ideas into stories that reflect the creativity and character of the Freeport community.

The FAB Film Festival Awards Night is set later this month, where the top entries will be recognized after final deliberation by the panel of judges.