Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) successfully hosted the 2nd EMC Screenwriting Workshop from March 19 to 21, 2025, at the 2nd Floor BDC. The three-day event, sponsored by the Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing (BSEMC) 2A students, brought together learners from the Development Communication (DevCom) and BSEMC programs, equipping them with essential screenwriting skills and fostering collaboration among students.
Mr. Phil Harold L. Mercurio set the tone for the event by delivering the rationale, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in the digital age. He also announced the prospects of launching a student-led film festival, providing a platform for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their works.
The College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS) Dean, Dr. Francisco B. Bacamante Jr., delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the significance of screenwriting in multimedia disciplines. Mr. Joshua Banzon followed with an inspiring message, encouraging students to hone their craft and harness the power of storytelling as a tool for effective communication.
The workshop’s highlight was a lecture by award-winning screenwriter Mr. Jerry Gracio, known for his notable contributions to Philippine cinema. His acclaimed works include Emir (2010), Astig (2009), and Balangiga: Howling Wilderness (2017), for which he won Best Original Screenplay at the 2018 FAMAS Awards. A celebrated poet, Mr. Gracio has received prestigious awards such as the SEA Write Award, multiple Palanca Memorial Awards, and two National Book Awards for his poetry collections.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in hands-on activities, received personalized feedback, and collaborated on group projects. The event concluded with a reflection on the participants’ growth and creativity, demonstrating the significant impact of the workshop on their skills development and creative drive.
The 2nd EMC Screenwriting Workshop not only provided a platform for skills development but also strengthened the community and creative drive among DevCom and BSEMC students of NwSSU. By empowering aspiring screenwriters with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the entertainment and multimedia industry, NwSSU emphasizes its commitment to nurturing creativity, innovation, and excellence among its students.