Epy Quizon’s ‘Bukal’ bags best film, best director awards at Emirates Film Festival

Epy Quizon triumphed at the 2026 Emirates Film Festival in Dubai as he took home the best director and best film accolades for his short film “Bukal.”

Quizon attended and personally accepted the awards at the ceremony held last July 26. Celebrating the feat, the actor-director penned a message of gratitude through his Instagram page on Friday, July 31.

“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the Emirates Film Festival for honoring my short film Bukal Wellspring with the Best Film Award and Best Director Award. This recognition means so much to me, especially as this marks the final festival run for the film,” he said.

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“‘Bukal’ has had an incredible journey, earning close to a hundred awards around the world,'” he stated. “I am truly grateful for the life it has taken on beyond what we first imagined.”

Quizon made mention of those who were instrumental in making the movie a success, including the production crew and his family. He then expressed his intent to turn the short film into a full-length feature through the support of right partners and investors.

“This film is a blessing, and it would not have been possible without the people who believed in it from the very beginning,” he said. “Above all, I offer everything to God. God’s will be done. Insha’Allah.”

“Bukal,” which was first released in 2021, marked Quizon’s directorial debut. The short film earned numerous awards at film festivals around the world, including Cannes World Film Festival, Los Angeles International Film Festival and Indie Short Fest. /ra