Have you ever wondered what your city would look like after the end of the world? For many, it's a thought experiment fueled by popular zombie games and films. For Cebuano artist Carlisle Tabanera, it became a stunning digital reality.
From Architectural Dreams to Digital Ruins
Carlisle Tabanera, a freelance 3D artist, has transformed the familiar landscapes of Cebu into a breathtaking and eerie post-apocalyptic vision. In an interview with SunStar Lifestyle on January 2, 2026, he revealed that his background in architecture, though unfinished, was crucial. "That background helped a lot — especially when modeling buildings and environments, which felt very natural to me," he shared.
This foundation is evident in every meticulously crafted scene of his project. Using the powerful Unreal Engine 5, he has created a cinematic, real-time world where Cebu's iconic locations stand abandoned. The South Road Properties are submerged in still water, Fort San Pedro looms like a ancient relic, the Cebu I.T. Park stretches into emptiness, and Colon Street is stripped of its legendary chaos.
A Vision Rooted in Genre and Resilience
Tabanera's inspiration comes directly from his love for the genre. "I've always loved zombie-related media," he said, listing games like Dying Light and The Last of Us, and films such as 28 Days Later. This fascination sparked a personal question: what would his own hometown look like in such a scenario?
While the visuals are stark and haunting, the artist's intent is not purely one of despair. Reflecting on Cebu's real-life trials with typhoons, earthquakes, and the pandemic, Tabanera focused on a deeper theme. "What stood out to me was how people consistently came together," he reflected. The larger story he is developing, though not fully shown in the initial video, is rooted in community and resilience.
Sound and Future Dreams
The project's emotional impact is amplified by its soundscape. A former music producer, Tabanera gave the audio as much care as the visuals. A haunting reinterpretation of the Hiligaynon folk song "Ili Ili Tulog Anay," sung by Cher Lozada, serves as a melancholic lullaby for the sleeping city.
For now, the project sits between a tech demo and a short film concept. "I have ideas for a short film," Carlisle explained. However, his ultimate dream is larger. "A video game set in Cebu would be a dream project," he admitted, acknowledging that a short film is a more feasible near-future goal.
He credits his supporters—Julie, Darren, his mom, and Josh René—for helping him complete this vision. This project is more than a technical showcase; it's a promising testament to the depth of Cebuano and Filipino talent on the global digital stage.
