Filmmaker Baby Ruth Villarama’s documentary, ‘Food Delivery’, Fresh from the West Philippine Sea, has officially withdrawn from the 2nd CinePanalo Film Festival just two days before its scheduled opening.
Festival director Chris Cahilig and Villarama issued a joint statement on Wednesday, March 12, announcing the documentary’s removal from the lineup, citing “external factors” as a key reason behind the decision.
“We regret to confirm that Food Delivery, Fresh from the West Philippine Sea has been pulled out from the CinePanalo Festival. While the decision was made jointly by the festival organizers and film creators, it is clear that external factors played a role in this outcome,” the statement read.
Despite the withdrawal, Cahilig and Villarama reassured supporters that alternative screenings for the documentary will be announced soon.
The film, which released its first teaser last month, explores the challenges faced by Filipino fishermen and the nation’s ongoing struggle to defend its territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea. Villarama previously described the documentary as a powerful depiction of perseverance and shared responsibility.
“From the fishermen risking their lives to feed their families to the Coast Guard and Navy personnel delivering food to the soldiers on remote outposts, Food Delivery illustrates the shared sacrifice and the collective love we all have to protect our way of life,” Villarama said, emphasizing that sovereignty is not just a political issue.
With the documentary’s withdrawal, the CinePanalo Film Festival’s full-length feature category will now include the following films: Olsen’s Day (starring Khalil Ramos), Journeyman (starring JC Santos), Sepak Takraw (directed by Mes de Guzman), Co-Love (starring Alexa Ilacad and KD Estrada), Fleeting (starring Janella Salvador and RK Bagatsing), Salum (directed by TM Malones), Tigkiliwi (directed by Tara Illenberger). Additionally, 25 student directors will showcase their works in the student shorts category.
The 2025 CinePanalo Film Festival is set to run from March 14 to 25 at Gateway Cineplex 18 in Cubao, Quezon City.
