Philippine cinema takes the spotlight on the international stage following the remarkable victory of Cignal Entertainment's 'Big Night!' and 'Resbak (Payback),' which bagged significant awards at the 19th Asian Film Festival. Held from April 7 to 13 at the Farnese Arthouse in Rome, Italy. Deemed as one of the most significant exhibitions of Asia films globally, the festival featured 30 films from Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines.

Out of all the nominees from the eight participating countries, director Brillante Mendoza (Resbak) was bestowed the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Roma Lazio Film Commission, while Christian Bables (Big Night!) and Vince Rillon (Resbak [Payback]) won Best Actor. Both Resbak (Payback) and Big Night! are produced by Cignal Entertainment and will also be available on streaming platforms soon.