Photo by Sthanlee B. Mirador Knowing longtime columnist and friend of the magazine Janet Susan R. Nepales – an award-winning journalist and international TV correspondent, among other accolades – certainly has its perks. She is a staple not only in the Fil-Am (Filipino American) community, but on the Hollywood red carpet as well; gracing the Golden Globes, the Academy Awards, to name a few. The multi-hyphenate now has a new title to add to her resume; Co-Founder of the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF). So, when one receives an email from Janet opening with “Dear Media Colleague” enclosed with an exclusive invitation, one jumps at the chance for what is certain to be an entertaining ride. Alongside her husband Ruben Nepales, both he and Janet are on the board of MIFF founders serving as Media Relations Consultants. Joining them are Chairman Omen Ortiz, President Ebradu Udarbe, Executive Producer Lisa Lew, and Ticketing Manager Celia Abaya Dy. Other noteworthy MIFF team members include Chief Financial Officer Leo Dela Cruz, Chief Operations Officer Erickson Ilog, Chief Marketing Officer Ron Ramores, Coordinating Producer Meriden Angeles, and Consulting Producer Winston Emano. The conception of MIFF preceded the inaugural event by nearly a year. It was at the first meeting on April 14, 2023, that Janet suggested the name “Manila International Film Festival”. On May 9, 2023, the team pitched the idea to Attorney Romando “Don” Artes, overall Chairman of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) and acting Chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Upon accepting their collaboration proposal, he agreed to have this new USbased festival showcase the films that would be shown at the annual MMFF in December in the Philippines. News of MIFF’s inception was commemorated on November 2, 2023, with a glamorous launch at...... Read more on Full Issue!