(Illustration courtesy of University of Guam)
The University of Guam’s Communication and Media program invites the public to attend the 11th Annual UOG Film Festival, a showcase of emerging local talent and creative storytelling.
The event will take place on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the UOG College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Lecture Hall. Admission is free and open to the public, with limited seating available.
This year’s festival promises an engaging evening of original student films, featuring a diverse range of storytelling styles and genres. Films will compete in the following categories: documentary, short narrative, mini-narrative, mockumentary, twisted trailer, mood piece.
Organized by students enrolled in the CO460 Integrated Public Relations course, led by Dr. Millie Nice, the festival represents a culmination of creative and strategic work within the Communication and Media program.
As the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences continues to support experiential learning and student creativity, the festival reflects the program’s commitment to developing real-world skills through hands-on projects.
Dean Sellmann of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences noted that, “The Communication program in general and the film festival in particular prepare students for the transforming workforce because human communication and video production are two of the most basic workforce skills required for today’s marketplace. College film festivals build real‑world skills by simulating industry workflows, fostering collaboration, showcasing talent to professionals, and giving students practical experience in production, critique, networking, and public presentation.”
Beyond the screenings, the festival is designed as a vibrant community event, bringing together students, faculty, industry professionals, and the broader public to celebrate storytelling and media arts in Guam.
Attendees can also enjoy a lively atmosphere featuring local vendors and raffle prizes, creating an engaging and interactive experience.
Guiding the creative direction and production of the films, faculty mentorship remains a key component of the festival’s success.
“The films to be shown are the product of several classes, from our introductory Broadcast Production, through an intermediate Independent Narrative Filmmaking class, Documentary Class and a Senior capstone. Students and faculty interact to come up with and hone ideas for finished productions,” stated Professor of Communication and Media Dr. Raymond Anderson.
Distinguished Panel of Judges
This year’s films will be evaluated by a panel of respected industry professionals:
Niel Darren Romero – Filmmaker/Director, known for narrative visual storytelling
Brian Muña – Filmmaker/Cinematographer, specializing in visual language and cinematography
Keanno Fausto – UOG Communication Program alumnus and award-winning filmmaker
CJ Ochoco – Producer and co-founder of Breaking Wave Theater Company
The UOG Film Festival continues to serve as a platform for highlighting the creativity, technical skills, and storytelling abilities of students, while strengthening connections between the university and Guam’s vibrant creative community.
A Call for Community Support
Attending the film festival will not only support local students and filmmakers but also the greater island community. In light of the recent Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the UOG Film Festival would like to encourage community solidarity and gathering. In collaboration with UOG Endowment Foundation, monetary donations will be collected throughout the event as part relief efforts for Guam’s local and neighboring communities.
The committee is grateful for this year’s sponsors as this event would not be possible without them: The UOG President’s Office, CLASS Dean’s Office, and Coast360.
Reserve your seat: https://uogfilmfest.squarespace.com/rsvp
Event Website: https://uogfilmfest.squarespace.com/
The 11th Annual UOG Film Festival Planning Committee includes the following students:
Elyssa Kylee Vargas
Sophia Slomka
Noah Abrenilla
Ricci Fuellas
Elianna Mel Cuevas
Rachel Cabales
Danica Paige Tamondong
Monica Cosico
Christian Legaspi
Luke Johnson
Aidan Cacapit
Tim Sanchez
For more information, please view on Instagram @uogfilmfestival or email UOG Film Festival media relations lead Danica Tamondong at tamondongd14802@gotritons.uog.edu.
