Going for Gold: 'Iti Mapukpukaw' is PH's Entry to the 96th Academy Awards

Fresh from its big win at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2023, the Filipino-Ilocano animated film “Iti Mapukpukaw” is going international as it bids for the 96th Academy Awards!

The film will be submitted for consideration to the prestigious awarding body as the country’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film Category, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) announced.

FDCP also mentioned that the council will be giving the “Iti Mapukpukaw” team P1 million from its Oscars Assistance Program in support of its campaign for the trophy.

The animated film previously won the Best Film Award at the Cinemalaya Awards, held last August. It also bagged the NETPAC Award for a Full-Length Feature and Best Supporting Actress for Dolly de Leon.

“Iti Mapukpukaw,” also called “The Missing,” is directed by award-winning filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa and stars renowned actors Carlo Aquino, Gio Gahol, and Dolly de Leon. It follows the story of the protagonist, Eric, and his traumatic past.

The 96th Academy Awards will take place on Mar. 10 next year at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles.