“ The journey began unexpectedly with a chance meeting with filmmaker Shawn Rosen. It was during a casual conversation that Beverly, a friend, suggested exploring short films, leading us to discover powerful stories on YouTube, including Larry Itliong's film. But it was the full length film QUEZON’S GAME that truly ignited a passion within us.

Months later, I reconnected with Shawn, who by then had become a teacher. We bonded over our mutual love for films. He shared one of his projects, seeking my opinion. After watching it, I gave him candid feedback: “It’s not Filipino enough!” This comment challenged Shawn and drove him to create his first Tagalog short film.

When I saw Shawn’s film, I knew we were onto something special. It was more than just a movie—it was a catalyst that sparked the idea of a Filipino short film festival. We wanted to showcase the talent and stories of Filipino filmmakers, both emerging and established.

With my event planning background, I took on the challenge of turning this vision into reality. We started reaching out, planning, and connecting with like-minded individuals who shared our passion for Filipino cinema. That’s when Felipe, a trusted friend and head of Filipino American Scholarship Foundation and Outreach Services (FASFOS) , came into the picture. He understood our vision and agreed to take the festival under his wing, ensuring its legacy would continue.

And just like that, we were all in. The Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival was born—a celebration of our culture, our stories, and our voices.”

-Margie Llorente-Gonzales, Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival visionary

At the June 2022 launch of the Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival, Shawn together with a group of young filmmakers showcased their work. He became a permanent presence at LVFSFF meetings and now serves on the Executive Board. He has been nominated for 3 Regional Emmys in the Pacific Southwest Chapter. In a recent interview, Esmeralda Padilla Gould of FilAm TV’s Vegas Vibes Junction noted, “Shawn’s films are heartfelt explorations of emotions and the human experience. His passion for Filipino mythology inspires him to bring ancient tales to life, aiming for them to be celebrated alongside Greek and Roman stories.”

Photographer / Videographer / Director (JERICK PADSING) and a also a Mechanical Engineer with a desire to share people’s stories and make an impact in people’s lives. Raymond Planas aims to live a life of purpose and help others find theirs. He is always quality focused, highly productive, quick learning, and enthusiastic professional.

Become a Premier Sponsor

Step into the spotlight with us as a Premier Sponsor of the Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival—an annual celebration of culture, creativity, and community. As a sponsor, your brand becomes part of a powerful movement that champions diverse voices, nurtures new filmmakers, and brings Filipino storytelling to center stage in Las Vegas.

Why Partner With Us?

1. High-Visibility Branding
Your logo and brand will be featured across festival materials—including banners, posters, digital campaigns, social media promotions, and on-screen mentions during screenings. This ensures your company gains recognition before thousands of attendees and online followers.

2. Community Connection
Align your brand with the Filipino American community—one of the fastest-growing and most influential cultural groups in Nevada. Sponsorship signals your commitment to cultural heritage, the arts, and inclusivity.

3. VIP Access & Networking
Enjoy priority seating, special recognition at the opening and closing ceremonies, and exclusive opportunities to connect with filmmakers, business leaders, media, and community influencers.

4. Media Exposure
Your company will be included in press releases, media features, and online coverage. With festival publicity reaching both local and international audiences, your sponsorship maximizes brand reach.

5. Lasting Impact
Beyond visibility, your support empowers emerging Filipino filmmakers to tell authentic stories that inspire, entertain, and preserve cultural identity. Your brand will be remembered as part of that legacy.

Be More Than a Sponsor—Be a Storyteller

As a Premier Sponsor, you’re not just funding an event—you’re helping shape the narrative of representation and opportunity. Together, we can make the Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival a platform where stories thrive and communities connect.

Join us today as a Premier Sponsor and let your brand shine on the big screen.