FILIPINO FILM AJUDGED "BEST DOCUMENTARY"  IN THE BRUSSELS INDEPENDENT FILMFEST

15 November 2007—Philippine Ambassador to Brussels Cristina G. Ortega reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that t he "Neo-Lounge", a film directed by Joanna Vasquez-Arong, won the Best Documentary Film award in the 34^th Brussels International Independent Film Festival at the awarding ceremonies held on 11 November 2007 at the Centre Culturel Jacques Franck, Brussels.

The film Neo-Lounge portrays the effects of the outbreak of SARS on people's lives.  

Ms. Vasquez-Arong has authored several documentaries on China and is working with a non-government organization (NGO) while pursuing her career as a filmmaker.

Another Filipino film entitled "Foster Child" was also featured in the festival.   It was however not included in the selection since its director, Mr. Brillante Mendoza, was a member of the filmfest's international jury.

12 other entries from India, Turkey, Thailand, Canada, Indonesia, Cambodia and Morocco were featured during the film festival.

The Brussels International Independent Film Festival, which started in 1974, provides excellent international exposure for the talents of Filipino artists and filmmakers. Ms. Gina Pareño bagged the best actress award for the film "Kubrador" last year 

Mr. Robert Malengreau, the film fest's Director, has been supporting the Philippines since the 1980s.   During the 9^th Cinemanila International Film Festival in August 2007 in Manila, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo conferred on him a Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant contribution to the development and promotion of independent Philippine films in Europe.   END

/Gary