The Consulate of Georgia in the Philippines, under the leadership of Consul (a.h.) Thelmo Cunanan Jr, is actively pushing for the official exchange of cinema between the Philippines and Georgia. During a recent visit to Georgia, Consul Cunanan called on Mr. Gaga Chkeidze, the General Director of the Tbilisi International Film Festival.

The Film Festival, which is held once a year usually in December, is Georgia’s premiere cinema event. Its objective is to introduce new Georgian and foreign artistic and independent films to the Georgian public, spread information about new trends in world cinema, and support the development of the Georgian film industry. Aside from the film competition, the Film Festival also conducts dialogues of professionals in the movie community, organizes workshops and master classes for stakeholders and film enthusiasts, and holds activities to motivate young cinematographers and encourage them to develop talent and artistic vision and expression.

Consul Cunanan and Mr. Chkeidze discussed the possibility of inviting Filipino film makers to participate in the festival. This dialogue resulted in the official invitation from the festival organizers to famous director Brilliante Mendoza – a first in Philippines – Georgia relations. Consul Cunanan also discussed the possibility of entering Filipino films in the festival’s “Horizons” category.

Consul Cunanan is a staunch advocate of promotions and exchanges of films between the Philippines and Georgia. To date, he has organized three major Georgian film events in the Philippines, including the annual nationwide Georgian film roadshow. He also holds film screenings in colleges and universities all over the country. Consul Cunanan’s efforts are in partnership and coordination with the Georgian National Film Center.