The Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival not only recognizes talented Filipino independent filmmakers but also distinguished individuals who take on the challenging task of selecting the films that will bring home the coveted Balanghai trophies.

For its 21st year, the Cinemalaya Main Competition jury includes: actor and director Christopher de Leon, internationally-acclaimed film director, producer and screenwriter Pepe Diokno, film critic and journalist Mark Schilling, educator, script consultant, and writer Sophia Wellington, and television and film writer Michiko Yamamoto. Each juror brings a wealth of experience and insight into the realm of cinema, contributing to a comprehensive assessment of the films presented at the country’s biggest independent film festival.

Christopher Strauss de Leon, more popularly known as Boyet de Leon, is a Filipino actor, and director. Often referred to as the “King of Philippine Drama”, he gained stardom for his leading man roles in numerous film and television productions in the period, romantic drama, and thriller genres. His work, covering more than five decades, has received various accolades, including eight FAMAS Awards, two Gawad Urian Awards, four Luna Awards, nine Star Awards, and eight Metro Manila Film Festival Awards. He is cited by critics as one of the best Filipino actors of all time.