In a remarkable milestone for Filipino queer artists, trans filmmaker LA Oraza has made waves at a prominent international film festival with her candid and unvarnished documentary about trans influencer Stella Salle. “NOMO KWEEN: The Last Woman Standing” earned Oraza the Best Director award and Gcay Reyes Best Editing at the UP Pride Film Festival 2025, a highly regarded event that honors stories of queer identity, resistance, and pride.
A Tale Unafraid of Raw Reality
Helmed by Oraza, a transwoman from Far Eastern University, the film explores into the tumultuous life of Stella Salle, capturing her late-night doomscrolling, candid rants, and determined survival. It steers clear of polished redemption narratives, instead portraying the rawness of grief, defiance, and lively existence in a world often deaf to trans experiences. “Being seen is one thing, but being heard and acknowledged is another,” expressed Oraza, dedicating her success to the rainbow community living in the margins.
Co-created by Yel Pimentel and Renz Dotillos, with production by Chroma Films and others, “NOMO KWEEN” has become a festival favorite. It won second runner-up and Best Editing at the 3rd TamDokyu Fest, and made it to the finals of the 37th Gawad Alternatibo, the country’s longest-standing indie film festival. Held on October 20, 2025, at UP Film Institute’s Cine Adarna, the fire-themed festival, symbolizing queer passion and tenacity, also celebrated films like “Isang Jeep Pa” (Best Picture) and “I Love You, But I’m Ugly.”
Global Recognition for Queer Pinoy Achievements
This triumph coincides with a surge of Filipino queer talent gaining global acclaim. At the Cannes 2025, executive producer Sonia Delen brought attention to trans dance maestro Sydney Loyola with “The Road to Sydney,” while shorts such as “Agapito” and “Ali” achieved recognition in the Official Short Film Competition. Meanwhile, back in the Philippines, Vice Ganda’s Best Actor accolade at MMFF 2025 for “Call Me Mother” highlighted the potential of queer artists to claim top honors.
Oraza’s inspiration? Her personal journey as a trans individual, making Stella’s character an emblem of genuine womanhood in a society that demands conformity. “Winning Best Director is a sign to the value of this story,” she remarked, acknowledging her team’s support. As Filipino queer creatives make their mark from UP Pride to Cannes, they’re not just achieving recognition, they’re reshaping narratives, one powerful frame at a time. Para sa lahat ng bakla, trans, at queer kin who refuse to be sidelined. This is our moment to shine.
