From June 30 to July 4, 2025, the halls of CIIT College of Arts and Technology were filled with energy, insight, and inspiration as 24 Frames, CIIT’s official film organization, hosted SineLektura and Sineliyab 2025. The multi-day event immersed CIITzens in real-world film education, storytelling, and hands-on creative experience, reaffirming CIIT’s mission to bridge learning with practice.
A Platform for Growth and Creative Courage
Now an annual tradition, SineLektura is a three-day film talk and workshop series designed to deepen students’ knowledge of film and video production. This year featured an exciting lineup of established filmmakers, industry professionals, and CIIT alumni, all eager to share their experiences in directing, cinematography, and production design.
The event culminated in Sineliyab, a short film competition that gave CIITzens the opportunity to showcase their original works—bringing their creative ideas to the big screen and turning lessons into live experience.
More than just a school activity, the event embodied CIIT’s core purpose: Redefining Possibilities. By giving students a space to create, collaborate, and take creative risks, the event encouraged personal expression, technical growth, and confidence in their craft.
Event Highlights
Day 1: From Cavite to Cannes
The festival opened with a case study on Agapito, a Filipino short film that earned recognition at international festivals. Guest speakers Arvin Belarmino, Kyla Romero, and Kristine de Leon shared how the team crafted a story rooted in local experiences that resonated globally. CIITzens gained valuable insights into the challenges of independent filmmaking—and the creative breakthroughs that come from staying true to one’s roots.
Day 2: Stories from Within
Day two shifted the spotlight to student speakers. Alumni and graduating CIITzens Venus Abalus, Niña Garcia, Fransisqo Sy, and Grecco Pili presented their capstone films, offering an honest look at the creative process—from story development to post-production. Their experiences reinforced the idea that growth isn’t limited to professional settings; it also happens when students share and learn from one another.
Day 3: Cinematography in Focus
CIITzens explored the language of visual storytelling in a hands-on workshop led by award-winning cinematographer Robert Pareja. From lighting setups to dynamic camera movements, the session revealed the intentional choices that elevate a film’s visual impact. Students came away with practical knowledge and a deeper appreciation for the role of cinematography in storytelling.
Day 4: Sineliyab Film Premiere
The final day featured Sineliyab 2025, where CIITzens premiered their original short films before a live audience. Spanning a range of themes—from personal reflection to social commentary—the films reflected the creative diversity and bold perspectives of this year’s participants. A panel of judges provided professional feedback and celebrated standout entries, turning the event into both a showcase and a learning experience.
Creating a Culture of Creative Confidence
With over 30 student participants, consistent daily attendance, and high engagement throughout, SineLektura and Sineliyab 2025 affirmed CIIT’s commitment to immersive, experience-driven learning. The initiative, led by student organization 24 Frames, is a strong example of how CIIT empowers its community to create meaningful impact through collaboration, passion, and innovation.
As a CIITzen speaker shared,
“You don’t have to wait until graduation to make your mark. You can start with the story only you can tell—right here, right now.”
What’s Next for CIIT Creators?
As CIIT continues to champion the intersection of art and technology, initiatives like SineLektura and Sineliyab show the value of giving students not just the tools—but the platform—to explore their voice as artists and storytellers.
To learn more about CIIT’s Film and Multimedia programs, visit:
https://www.ciit.edu.ph/courses
Be a CIITzen, apply now! Visit https://admissions.ciit.edu.ph