Kidlat Tahimik (2009, Independent Film)
In 2009, the Council of Advisers unanimously chose Mr. Kidlat Tahimik for his outstanding contributions in independent filmmaking. He was recognized for showing excellence in the art and craft of cinema; for his pioneering efforts in making the global film audience aware of the existence of independent filmmaking in our country; for his courage in presenting and distributing films without relying on any form of commercial distribution; for inspiring succeeding generations of Filipino filmmakers to follow his example and aim for the standard that he and the international audience have set; for demonstrating a high level of public service through his continued mentoring of younger filmmakers in various fora, conferences, and festivals; and for exhorting them to listen to their “inner duwende” and staying true to their artistic vision.