USLS-Bacolod Nursing Student Achieves Three-Year Streak at Prestigious Negros Film Festival
A talented senior Nursing student from the University of St. La Salle-Bacolod has made an impressive mark in the regional film scene by participating in Sine Negrense: The Negros Island Film Festival for three consecutive years. Chelsea Tasic's journey as a filmmaker has been characterized by compelling storytelling and critical acclaim, showcasing her dual passion for healthcare and cinematic arts.
A Remarkable Debut in 2023
Chelsea Tasic's festival streak began in 2023 with her thought-provoking film "Dalit sa Sala," a social commentary produced by Dulaab Productions. Despite the challenging production that involved a complex two-day shoot on a moving bus, the film resonated powerfully with audiences. This debut effort earned eight nominations and secured both the People's Choice Award and a special citation for its compelling narrative at that year's Sine Negrense festival.
Continued Success in 2024
In 2024, Tasic's talent was further recognized when she was selected as one of ten directors for the inaugural Bacolod Film Festival. Her entry, "A Flower A Day," competed in the Sine Negrense Open Category. The film tells the story of a young woman who routinely visits a rundown cafe with a different flower, sparking the curiosity of a local barista. This production received eight nominations and won Best Musical Score at the Bacolod Film Festival in 2024, solidifying Tasic's reputation as a rising storyteller in the Negros region.
Latest Achievement in 2025
Tasic returned to Sine Negrense in 2025 with her latest work, "Isa ka Higayon," competing in the Intercollegiate Category. The film explores profound themes of closure and the afterlife through the lens of local Bacolod culture. The story follows Lola Sonia, a seamstress in downtown Bacolod, who prepares for her chance to make up for a late loved one, only to be held back by doubts about her decision's consequences. "Isa ka Higayon" was recently screened at the Dinagyang edition of the CineKasimanwa: The Western Visayas Film Festival held at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Iloilo.
Roots and Philosophy of Filmmaking
For Chelsea Tasic, filmmaking represents more than just a creative outlet—it serves as a vessel for capturing raw, genuine human experiences. Her journey as a filmmaker began during her senior high school years at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, where she directed the award-winning short films "Piyesa" (2021) and "Litrato" (2022). Today, she views her success as a meaningful reminder to revisit our cultural roots and highlight the richness and realities of life in Negros.
Balancing her calling in both nursing and filmmaking, Tasic continues to create stories and visual projects that portray authentic human experiences with depth and sensitivity. Her ability to juggle these demanding fields demonstrates remarkable dedication and versatility.
About Sine Negrense Festival
Sine Negrense stands as an annual celebration of local filmmaking that provides a vital platform to showcase the works of Negrense filmmakers. The most recent edition ran from December 3 to 6 at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Negros, with the awarding ceremony tentatively scheduled for next month. This festival continues to nurture and promote the vibrant film culture of the Negros Island region, supporting emerging talents like Chelsea Tasic who bring unique perspectives to Philippine cinema.
