Louie Ignacio takes a selfie with the other directors of the feature film category. PHOTO BY DJ DIOSINA JR.Direk Louie’s first Cinemalaya entry was “Asintado” in 2013.He stumbled upon a compelling story of children being used by a syndicate as drug couriers, which inspired him to submit an entry to the festival.Thankfully, the trailer of his movie was well-received during the launch as he confessed, “I’m even more nervous now getting that kind of response. I wasn’t expecting such a reception but I’m more nervous kasi ang feeling ko their expectations are very high!”He intimated, however, “I believe this is my best work yet and also Ai Ai’s best performance. I raised the bar—I challenged myself and I believe I was able to level up, modesty aside.”And, Direk Louie feels so honored to direct his colleague Joel Lamangan who plays the gay syndicate head in the movie.“I can already retire!” he exclaimed. “Joel is very, very good in the film. I am proud to have been given the chance to work with him.”The Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival 2018 runs from August 3 until August 12.* * *A dream project for Zumba instructors from across the globe was accomplished by Ron Antonio who led the Largest Zumba Class in the World, earning a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.Last May 19, together with the 100 finest zumba instructors all over the country, Ron was able to keep a crowd of 13,350 to continuously and synchronically dance for 30 minutes.The record was achieved in the Province of Camarines Sur through the efforts of Gov. Migz Vilafuerte. The challenge was not only for Ron to keep the crowd dancing for 30 minutes and in sync with the music and choreography of the instructors but also to overcome the forces of nature and all factors that he cannot control.It rained hard during the crowd registration turning the provincial capitol grounds into a mud pit but most of the crowd stayed in the field despite the downpour.Today, July 14, Ron together with thousands of zumba enthusiasts will gather at the PICC Forum for another memorable event to celebrate the Guinness World Records for the Largest Zumba Class. He will be supported by 300 fitness instructors from all over the Philippines, thus affirming his status as an influencer in the local Zumba and Dance Fitness industry.Zayaw Pilipinas Victory Party, now on its third year, also serves as the celebration of Ron’s birthday and will definitely be a showcase of explosive performances and a visual array of concert and stage lights.The celebrity zumba instructor will also be pre-releasing his second dance album titled “Pinas Zayaw” at the event.
