Meet The Team

Guiding our festival's vision with unmatched passion and an eye for the extraordinary, Jennifer Maliwanag serves as the Festival Director. With her at the helm, we journey deeper into cinematic landscapes, ensuring every film and event aligns with our mission to "see what others can't." Join us in celebrating the world of cinema, under Jennifer's visionary leadership

Journeying through the wavelengths of music and amplifying voices across various radio stations, Alexander Jude Gotinga has established himself as a maestro in the realm of sonic storytelling. As a seasoned program director, his unparalleled acumen in curating auditory experiences has earned him respect and admiration within the industry.

Now, as a jury member for the Santa Maria Film Festival, Alexander is set to lend his keen ear and discerning perspective, ensuring that the melodies and harmonies showcased resonate with the essence of storytelling and artistic expression. Entrust in his expertise to celebrate and elevate the symphonies that define our cinematic tales

Stepping into the world of film as a filmmaker, artist, and editor, Jerico Maliwanag seamlessly stitches stories, emotions, and artistry. With a lens honed in the intricate details of cinema, his works resonate with authenticity and finesse. Now, lending his expertise as a jury member for the Santa Maria Music and Film Festival, Jerico aims to spotlight the next generation of filmmakers, ensuring that the festival's narrative remains as compelling as the tales it showcases. Dive deep into the festival, guided by his discerning eye.

With a career steeped in creativity and innovation, Sidney Luzentales has masterfully sculpted brands' visual narratives as a Senior Art Director at Leo Burnett. His adeptness at translating ideas into compelling visuals has made him an industry frontrunner. Now, as a jury member at the Santa Maria Film Festival, Sidney brings his discerning eye and artistic sensibility, ensuring that the visual language of each film aligns with the highest standards of storytelling and artistic vision. Trust in Sidney's astute judgment to spotlight and honor cinematic artistry at its finest

Renowned for his masterpieces like "Maria (2019)", "Geisha of Death (2015)", and his groundbreaking work on "Gi", Rex Lopez stands tall in the world of film as both a prolific producer and an innovative creative director. His penchant for blending vivid narratives with exquisite screenplays has made him an indispensable figure in the industry. Now, as a jury member for the Santa Maria Film Festival, Rex brings his unparalleled expertise and visionary flair to celebrate the next wave of cinematic brilliance.

A literary force with global acclaim. The genius behind "Hermes," 2021's top philosophical magazine, his works have echoed across 10 countries and been translated into 20+ languages. His screenplay "Howl" has garnered attention in numerous film festivals. An advocate for sustainability, Abedi actively supports the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Now, he brings his multifaceted expertise as a jury member to the Santa Maria Film Festiva