Two more independent movies put the Philippine film industry on the map: Sabungero and Walang Hanggang Paalam.

Sabungero (The Cockfighter), directed by Miguel Kaimo and Rozie Delgado, bagged the Aloha Accolade Award for Excellence in Filmmaking in the still ongoing 2010 Honolulu International Film Festival, which—according to its website—aims to "showcase the finest independent cinema the world has to offer while helping to advance the careers of promising filmmakers by providing a platform through which their talents can be recognized."

Story and screenplay by Troy Bernardo and Luz Inocian, Sabungero  stars Joel Torre, Ricky Davao, Nonie Buencamino, Robert Arevalo, Leo Martinez, Mark Gil, Maritoni Fernandez, Sid Lucero, and Edwin Nombre. The film was produced by JC and Fay Bernardo.

The citation will be given during the Closing Night Awards Ceremony of the said festival this April 25 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa in Honolulu.

Similarly, Walang Hanggang Paalam bested eleven other entries from several countries, including two other Philippine entries Pitik Bulag and The Pastor's Kid, in the 2^nd Soho International Film Festival 2010—which "encourages new and seasoned filmmakers to create innovative and thought provoking pieces and will host screenings and events in the renowned SOHO district of New York City to bring together filmmakers, critics, and cineastes from across the world."

The film was declared winner of the Best Picture Award three hours ago. The awarding ceremony and closing night took place at 394 Broadway in New York City, last Sunday night, eastern time.

The indie film was directed by Paolo Villaluna and Ellen Ramos, and  stars Lovi Poe, Joem Bascon, and Jackie Woo.