PGMN Anchor Jourdan Sebastian marked an international filmmaking milestone after Bukal (Wellspring), which he executive-produced, won Best Film at the 2026 Emirates Film Festival in Dubai.
The acclaimed short film also earned actor-director Epy Quizon the Best Director award. Quizon personally accepted both honors during the festival ceremony on July 26, bringing Bukal’s international festival run to a triumphant close.
“This recognition means so much to me, especially as this marks the final festival run for the film,” Quizon wrote on Instagram.
Quizon said Bukal had earned close to a hundred awards worldwide and achieved far more than its creators initially imagined. He also expressed hope that the short film could eventually be developed into a full-length feature with the support of the right partners and investors.
In his message, Quizon gave special recognition to Sebastian and Malaya, his best friends and longtime creative collaborators.
“To Malaya and Jourdan, thank you for constantly pushing me to reach deeper and strive for creative excellence,” Quizon said.
Sebastian is one of PGMN’s original anchors. His nine episodes tackling politics, corruption within religious institutions and major social issues have collectively generated millions of views across the network’s digital platforms. Known for refusing to align himself with any political camp, he has openly called political labels “dumb” and applies the same scrutiny to personalities across all political colors.
Quizon also thanked the film’s producers, writers, cinematographers, editors, musicians, cast and crew, crediting those who believed in the project from its earliest stages.
“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.
Released in 2021, Bukal marked Quizon’s directorial debut. The film has since received recognition from festivals around the world, including the Cannes World Film Festival, Los Angeles International Film Festival and Indie Short Fest.
