ALT-R HEROES 2025: From LGBT Rights to Human Rights
Returning to Ticao Island, the birthplace of stories that have shaped Jay Altarejos’ cinema. Join us for a FREE 3-day film festival and filmmaking workshop!
Apply for Workshop (Deadline: July 24)About Jay Altarejos
A Visionary in Philippine Cinema
Joselito "Jay" Altarejos is an acclaimed Filipino filmmaker, director, producer, and screenwriter, active since 1998.[1] He is widely recognized as an innovator of "New Queer Cinema" in the Philippines and a leading voice in the "Cinema of Social Consciousness".[2, 3, 4]
His artistic philosophy is deeply rooted in authentic, research-based narratives that "reflect Filipino experiences and culture," consistently tackling complex "social issues" and "gay identity".[2] He embraces independent filmmaking to tell "very personal, almost confessional" stories, deliberately avoiding mainstream conventions.[4]
Altarejos's work has garnered international acclaim, with films premiering at prestigious festivals like the Berlinale ("Unfriend") [1] and the Moscow International Film Festival ("Guardia de Honor").[3] He is also dedicated to nurturing new talent, teaching Film and Video Production at CIIT - Institute of Arts and Technology.[3]
He strategically uses two names: "Joselito Altarejos" for his critically acclaimed features and "Jay Altarejos" for television series, allowing for broader reach and market segmentation.[1]
Filmography
Feature Films (as Joselito Altarejos)
Guardia de Honor (2024)
A family grapples with a present tragedy and a dark past when a policeman kills a mother and son. The film uncovers a history of police violence and familial abuse.[3, 5, 6]
Learn MoreTale of the Lost Boys (2017)
An unexpected connection between a Filipino and a Taiwanese aborigine, both searching for their identities. Filmed in Taiwan, it won Best Film at Serile Filmului Gay International Film Festival in Romania.
Learn MorePink Halo-Halo (2010)
Explores how the war in Mindanao robs a child of his innocence, and the shadows of wars Filipino homes confront daily. Won Best Film at Serile Filmului Gay International Film Festival in Romania.
Learn MoreUnfriend (2014)
Premiered at the 2014 Berlinale, highlighting the "dangerous power of social media".[1, 7]
Learn MoreThe Commitment (Kasal) (2014)
A critically acclaimed work exploring complex themes. [1, 7]
Learn MoreThe Man in the Lighthouse (Ang Lalake sa Parola) (2007)
One of his ground-breaking openly gay-themed film features. [1, 7]
Learn MoreTelevision Series (as Jay Altarejos)
Legacy (2012)
A long-running 98-episode TV series on GMA Network, co-directed by Jay Altarejos. [7]
Learn MoreWattpad Presents (2014-2015)
Directed several episodes of this popular series, including "Mr. Popular Meets Miss Nobody" and "Poser". [7]
Learn MoreWorkshops & Education
ALT-R HEROES 2025 Filmmaking Workshop
Join Jay Altarejos for an immersive filmmaking workshop during the ALT-R HEROES 2025 festival, August 1-3, 2025, in San Jacinto, Masbate, Ticao Island. This free 3-day workshop is open to aspiring Tigaonon filmmakers aged 18+.
- **Focus:** Writing, directing, and editing stories rooted in our island’s lived experience.
- **Application Deadline:** July 24 [User Query].
- **Apply Here:** https://forms.gle/SbNVJy8WPYGwMrio6
Direk Jay is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of Filipino storytellers, currently teaching Film and Video Production at CIIT - Institute of Arts and Technology.[3]
Stay tuned for future online masterclasses and educational resources!
Advocacy & Social Impact
Cinema of Social Consciousness: From LGBT Rights to Human Rights
Jay Altarejos's artistic expression is deeply intertwined with powerful advocacy. His films are not just entertainment; they are platforms for critical dialogue on societal issues, championing the "Cinema of Social Consciousness" movement.[3]
The ALT-R HEROES 2025 festival's rallying cry, "From LGBT Rights to Human Rights," underscores this commitment to celebrating "socially committed cinema that challenges, reclaims, and resists".
His work consistently tackles profound social issues, authentically reflecting Filipino experiences and culture, and exploring themes of gay identity, oppression, and social justice.[2, 8] For instance, "Guardia de Honor" directly confronts pressing issues of police violence and familial abuse.[3, 5, 6]
Through his films, Direk Jay aims to foster critical dialogue and contribute to cultural change, making his brand highly appealing to audiences, non-governmental organizations, and funders interested in social impact.
Ticao Island: The Birthplace of Stories
Ticao Island holds a profound significance for Jay Altarejos, explicitly identified as the "birthplace of stories that have shaped Jay Altarejos’ cinema" [User Query]. This "homecoming" narrative for the ALT-R HEROES 2025 festival establishes a deep, authentic link between the filmmaker, the geographical location, and his artistic origins.
The island is not just a venue; it is an integral, almost spiritual, component of his creative identity, grounding his internationally recognized work in a rich, local context. This connection fosters a sense of legacy, authenticity, and community around his brand.
Ticao Altamar Boutique Resort: The Creative Home
The Ticao Altamar Boutique Resort serves as the designated "creative home for 3 days of storytelling, collaboration, and community" for the ALT-R HEROES 2025 festival [User Query]. The resort offers comfortable, modern, and pet-friendly accommodations with amenities including two swimming pools, free Wi-Fi, a spa, and BBQ facilities, complemented by a desirable beachfront location.[7, 9, 3, 10]
The resort boasts excellent reviews, with high ratings for service and cleanliness, and guest testimonials highlight its tranquil atmosphere and exceptional service, aligning perfectly with the creative and community-focused nature of the festival.[1, 9]
Learn more about the resort: Ticao Altamar Boutique Resort
News & Events
Upcoming Events
- **ALT-R HEROES 2025 Film and Advocacy Festival:** August 1-3, 2025, San Jacinto, Masbate, Ticao Island.
- **Filmmaking Workshop Application Deadline:** July 24, 2025.
- Full workshop and screening schedule drops soon!
Stay tuned for announcements regarding new film projects, screenings, and media appearances.
Latest News
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Blog & Insights
This section will feature Jay Altarejos's personal reflections on the art of filmmaking, critical social issues, industry trends, and creative processes.
It will serve as a platform to reinforce his thought leadership and engage directly with his audience, offering deeper insights into his "personal, almost confessional" approach to storytelling.[4]
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Contact & Press Kit
For media inquiries, collaboration requests, or general questions, please use the form below or reach out via email.
Email: info@jayaltarejos.com (Placeholder)
Download Press Kit: Download PDF (Placeholder)