The suspense-drama short film ‘As the Call So the Echo’, written and directed by Rusty Palacio Guarin, has been shortlisted in the prestigious “Award Winning Films” category at the upcoming Emirates Film Festival in Dubai.
This recognition places the film among the top nine finalists selected from over 100 entries worldwide.
The gripping narrative follows Lito, a seemingly perfect family man who secretly leads a double life as a henchman for an illegal organ trade syndicate. The story takes a dark turn when one of his assignments hits close to home.
The film stars Enzo Pineda, Mia Aquino, Kian Co, Prince España, and Vas Palacay.
Director Rusty Palacio Guarin drew from haunting childhood stories and modern news reports to craft the chilling plot. “When I was a child, I often heard stories about kids being abducted by white vans and having their organs sold. I remembered those tales again recently after seeing a news story on social media about children allegedly being taken once more. Honestly, the report hasn’t been confirmed yet, but it inspired me to write and bring that story to life. I even added a shocking twist to it,” shared Guarin.
Aquino Plotado, the film’s Executive Producer, explained their choice of lead actor: “As a film producer, I chose Enzo Pineda as the lead actor in our film because I genuinely believe in his exceptional talent and remarkable skill. His ability to bring depth to his roles has been widely recognized, and the positive feedback I’ve received from industry professionals further affirmed this decision.
“Enzo is not only a gifted actor, but he is also a smart and intelligent individual, which makes him a perfect fit for Aquino Plotado Film International company and I am thrilled that our film has been shortlisted as one of the nine finalists in the “Award Winning Films” category at the upcoming Emirates Film Festival in Dubai among more than 100 Film entries worldwide. This is a great achievement, and I am excited about Enzo’s future endeavors, including his upcoming horror film with his real-life sweetheart, Michelle Vito. I also look forward to seeing him collaborate with international talents across the Middle East, including India, as he continues to grow in his career, and hopefully, to take him into international level.”
Director Rusty Palacio Guarin echoed this sentiment: “He has a mysterious look, bagay sakanya yung character ni Lito. Kaya niyang ibigay yung hinihingi ng script—yung galaw, titig. Overall, he’s a good actor.”
Reflecting on the film’s selection, Guarin said: “We’re happy dahil nakapasok kami o shortlisted out of 100+ entries. Sulit yung pagod—kasi from pre-production to post-prod, talagang inuupuan ko para maaayos namin ma-isubmit itong maikling pelikula. Sobrang nagpapasalamat ako sa buong production dahil sa hard work nila. Nagpapasalamat kami kay Lord for this success and to Emirates Film Festival Founder Ron Awa.”
With over a decade of experience in film and television, Rusty Palacio Guarin is a seasoned storyteller. His journey began in 2013 under the mentorship of renowned industry professionals, and he has since written and directed multiple short films and full-length projects.
Guarin’s works include ‘The Long Road Back’, which was selected for the Lift-Off Filmmaker Sessions in 2024, and ‘Hanggang Kailan Ang Kahapon’ (2024), a sequel to the award-winning ‘Ikaw At Ako’ (2014). His commitment to storytelling extends to television, where he has served as a segment producer and scriptwriter for major networks like TV5 and GMA.
Through his Midnight Troops Production company, Guarin continues to create compelling narratives that leave a lasting impact.
Aquino Plotado brings a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality, real estate, and filmmaking. Having worked with prestigious global brands such as Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and Jumeirah, Plotado now leads Aquino Plotado Film International. His ventures include plans for a hotel brand, a clothing line, and a private concierge service catering to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
