Young filmmakers Rey Coloma and Eric Tabirao talk about filmmaking and raising awareness on climate change and mental health

MANILA -- For director Rey Coloma, filmmaking is about bringing underrepresented voices and stories to the forefront, resulting in actual societal change.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News, Coloma said, “For me, filmmaking is a powerful tool to provoke thought and inspire change. It sheds light on social issues close to my heart, like climate change and mental health awareness. It's about creating impactful art. Film, as an empathy creator, brings underrepresented voices and stories to the forefront, driving real change in societal views.”

The young director, with the help of AMHUMAN, has completed post-production on his new film "Hanggang Kailan Ba?" starring Reyven Martirez and Cassie Lopez, which will compete at an international film festival.

He's also working on an advocacy film called "Ningning" with co-director Eric Tabirao, as well as a full-length feature called "Happiness is a Fearl" starring Akemi Kubota.

“I aspire to direct films that challenge societal norms and delve into sidelined topics. A dream project would be a biopic of a lesser-known historical figure whose story deserves to be told. Their triumphs and struggles could resonate deeply and inspire future generations,” the filmmaker shared.

“When we watch a compelling film, we frequently praise the actors, the spectacular graphics, or the gripping plot. The film director works relentlessly behind the scenes to produce movie magic,” Coloma’s co-director Tabirao gave his part.

When asked who his inspirations and ideal artists to work with are, he named Alfred Hitchcock and Jodi Sta. Maria.

“Alfred Hitchcock’s suspenseful storytelling has profoundly influenced me as a director. I'd love to work with Jodi Sta. Maria; her versatility is remarkable. Everyday life and the hidden narratives within it often inspire me,” he told ABS-CBN News. 

He hopes to direct more films and explore new ideas, adding, "Directing is about pushing limits and constantly evolving. I never want to be pigeonholed into a single genre or style. Each project should be a unique adventure, with its own set of obstacles and rewards.”

On the other hand, Tabirao discussed the importance of visuals, saying, “Directors collaborate closely with cinematographers to develop the visual language. The director's role in framing shots and selecting camera movements is critical for communicating emotions and the narrative.”

Coloma also announced his forthcoming AMHUMAN Annual Worldwide Best of the Beat event, which will take place on December 15 in Albay, Bicol. This will include the first Luzon Human Excellence People's Choice Awards and the second Sinag ng Kapatiran Awards. Recently, he established Enrichment Programs in Montalban, Rizal, and PWD Assistance, which provides assistive devices in Luzon.

He stated that the organization advocates for school youth, mental health, child abuse, and the environment, including tree planting.