Noel Ferrer launches new alternative media awards

MANILA, Philippines — Media personality and educator Noel Ferrer is set to launch a new recognition program that reflects his long-standing interest in media literacy and socially aware storytelling. The Noel Ferrer Level Up Alternative Media Awards will make their debut this month, honoring individuals and groups whose work in alternative media encourages critical thinking and a deeper engagement with issues affecting the public.

The first batch of awardees includes “Facts First” by Christian Esguerra, “KC After Hours” by Karmina Constantino and “Altermidya” headed by Inday Espina-Varona. The citations will be given during the Gawad Tanglaw ceremonies on Dec. 17, where Noel will also receive the Natatanging Tanglaw ng Sining at Kultura award. The trophies for the new awards were designed by artist LeeRoy New.

For Noel, the project stems from the growing need to support platforms that provide context, question prevailing narratives and offer space for underrepresented voices. In keeping with this, honorees will later take part in a separate gathering where they can share experiences relating to the role of alternative media in public discourse.

“Our awardees are those who have demonstrated a commitment to liberating, progressive communication that challenges dominant narratives and promotes a more just and equitable society,” Ferrer said.

The launch of the awards follows several major commitments in the final quarter of the year. Earlier this month, he wrapped up work on the Eighth Pinoy Playlist Music Festival (PPMF) at the BGC Arts Center, which he curates with National Artist Ryan Cayabyab, Moy Ortiz and Bonifacio Art Foundation head Maribel Garcia. The festival, now nominated at the Aliw Awards for Best Special Event in Arts and Culture, is one of the projects Noel regularly helps shepherd.

He is currently busy as a spokesperson of the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), which opens on Christmas Day. As part of efforts to encourage more meaningful audience engagement, the MMFF executive committee is introducing film premiere nights and talkback sessions for all entries.

“For this 51st edition, we are blessed to have very respected and awarded directors with film entries this year. As a significant feature this year is that the MMFF Execom will sponsor the premiere nights of all the films and we shall have talkback sessions for better audience engagement and interaction,” he said.

“I have always pushed for and supported efforts towards better film appreciation and education.”

On a more personal note, Noel has also marked a quieter milestone. Yesterday, Dec. 11, his birthday, he released his interpretation of Photograph, a song composed by Nori Villena and first recorded by Ariel Rivera. The track, arranged by Paulo Zarate of Studio Z, is available on major music platforms.