100 MIFG: Lamentasyon

100 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf: The Men Behind Lamentasyon

Producers Ape & Company and Animo Events gave the Filipino community its first full length feature film shot in Dubai, produced for OFWs by the OFWs in the movie ‘Lamentasyon,’ which delves into the lives and struggles of Pinoy expats.

The film was directed by the multi-awarded Archie Enriquez, fresh from his Best Director and Best Film wins at the fourth edition of Emirates Short Film Festival (ESFF) in February 2017.  He shares, “It has always been my dream to have a full length film. I wanted to show that it can be done just from pure passion and joy, not for fame and money. Filipinos are very talented, and that includes OFWs, they just need a venue to showcase it, and this is the start.”

Jake Javier, producer and actor who refers to the film as a ‘labor of love,’ considers the film “a tribute to OFWS, especially here in Dubai and around the world.”

For engineer, model and former GMA artist Dexter Dalisay who plays the lead role of Samuel, the film has special significance in that it allowed him to fulfill the path which he had to leave behind at GMA TV Network Philippines three years ago, to pursue a career in engineering.”   He also adds, “Our role as talents for the Filipino community abroad, is as simple as providing entertainment. That may be very humble, but giving happiness to our kababayans, especially when they are homesick, gives me a truly immeasurable and indescribable feeling.”

For the cast and crew, the film was also an exercise of empowerment.  Jake states, “We can empower our fellow Filipinos by creating more films to express our talents. We look forward to the time when Filipinos in UAE will not only be known as excellent employees but will also be regarded highly for their artistry and creativity.“

Photography by: Alex Callueng

Illustrado 100 was made possible by sponsors: Giordano, Liali Jewellery, Mitsubishi UAE- Al Habtoor Motors, Michael Cinco Couture, Mapúa Institute of Technology, Centro – Amwaj Rotana Hotel , Max’s Restaurant Middle East and GVER – Your Friendly MarketPlace for Sharing

Co-Sponsors: Herschel Supply Co., Rove Hotels, The Medical City – Dubai , Filipino Institute UAE, MPQ Tourism, JAMES Travel and Tours Dubai, Off the Hook Seafood Restaurant, The Original Barrio Fiesta Restaurant – Dubai and Tapa King UAE.

Read more Illustrado 100 on www.illustradolife.com