The 2016 University of Guam Film Festival of the Pacific (UOGFF)--a launching pad for original work made exclusively in the Marianas--showcased more than 14 films from April 29 and 30, including student films from UOG Professor Dr. Ray Anderson's Mass Media courses and Kel Muña's Independent Filmmaking course.

Among the festival's many highlights was the "Focus on Life" showcase, which featured short film entries that shine light on mental illnesses. Filmmakers were also recognized for being leaders in promoting mental health in our island community with the Mental Health Trailblazer Award, presented by the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center Peace Office.

The top three films and two audience choice winners of this year's UOGFF will go on to vie for the “Best Made in the Marianas” honors at the Guam International Film Festival (GIFF) signature fall event this September. 

See photos of UOGIFF 2016.

The winners include:

UOGFF Spring Local ShowcaseTop 3 Finalists

• 1st Place: "Group" dir. Alissa Eclavea & Leilani Peredo
  
  
• 2nd Place: "The Virgin Flower" dir. Dylan Montalbo
  
  
• 3rd Place: "Ayotte': Way of the Warrior Poet" dir. Vicente Salas

Docomo Pacific Audience Choice

• "A Twist of Yarn" dir. Juli Hernandez & Whisper Dela Cruz
  
  
• "What Goes Around" dir. Robert Patricio, Jr.

Mental Health Trailblazer Award presented by the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center PEACE Office

• CJ Ochoco for "Group"
  
  
• Nancy Twardowski for "O Mother Dearest"
  
  
• James Aevermann for "Normal"