WE’VE stored the parka, mittens, thermal underwear and snow boots in the closet. But this moment remains fresh in our mind. Following the second screening of Filipina filmmaker Joanna Vasquez Arong’s (in pink) “Neo-Lounge,” which was in Slamdance 2008’s Documentary Feature Competition, she was toasted by new and old friends.

Among those celebrating Joanna’s achievement in Park City, Utah are Pinoy filmmakers Ramona Diaz (left, in green) and Marty Syjuco (beside Joanna).

Cheers indeed to the Philippines’ rising crop of indie filmmakers! They’re making waves in the international film scene. Best of all, they are invigorating the moribund Filipino movie industry.

Editor’s note: Photo by Ruben V. Nepales