By Mikee Natinga Norico
Congratulations to Centralian filmmakers Richard Jeroui Salvadico (BS DMIA ’18) and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay (AB MassCom ’19) for being recognized as Best Director awardees at the 48th Gawad Urian for their exceptional work in the film “Tumandok.”
Centralian pride shines once again as alumni Richard Jeroui Salvadico (BS DMIA ’18) and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay (AB Mass Communication ’19) were hailed as Pinakamahusay na Direktor (Best Director) for their acclaimed film “Tumandok” at the 48th Gawad Urian Awards, held on October 11, 2025, at the Teresa Yuchengco Auditorium, De La Salle University.
The Gawad Urian, established in 1977 by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino—an organization composed of film critics, writers, professors, and scholars—is one of the most prestigious award-giving bodies in Philippine cinema.
Salvadico and Sumagaysay’s recognition marks a significant milestone for Western Visayas cinema, as “Tumandok” continues to bring regional and indigenous stories to national prominence. The film, which centers on the lives of the Ati community in Sitio Kabarangkalan, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, also received multiple awards, including Best Supporting Actor (Felipe Ganancial), Best Screenplay, and Best Music.
In their speech, the duo dedicated the award to the Ati community, which served as the heart of their story.
“This award belongs as much to them as it does to us,” said Salvadico. He also took the moment to highlight social realities, stating, “Recently, corruption has made headlines — stolen billions that could have built roads and schools, and secured land titles for the indigenous people. Instead, they are forced to walk miles to learn while they deserve the dignity of dreaming and learning in their own land.”
Sumagaysay, in her message, underscored the importance of empathy and cultural respect.
“Let us use our platforms and privileges to help build a future where fear no longer exists, and where more Indigenous Peoples’ communities are given a chance not just to survive, but to live and to dream,” she said.
She concluded her speech with a powerful reflection:
“This award, alongside Tumandok, will always remind us that filmmaking is both a privilege and a responsibility.”
It can be recalled that the documentary film “Tumandok” also garnered several recognitions at the 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival, where it won the Best Full-Length Film Award.
Through their artistry, Salvadico and Sumagaysay continue to amplify the voices of indigenous communities and highlight the richness of Western Visayas’ cultural identity — a testament to the enduring excellence and social commitment of Centralian filmmakers.
For more updates about “Tumandok”, visit the film’s official Instagram page or read more about its story at Southern Lantern.