ELIJAH MER DELA CRUZ
Director
Bio

Elijah Mer Dela Cruz is a filmmaker, theater director, and arts educator who continues to work locally to inspire young filmmakers in his city and province. As one of the directors of Juanrook Productions, he has been involved in numerous productions, including The Final Countdown, SuperTala, and The Greatest ShowJuan- a grand recital that showcased the talents of students who underwent his supervision in a workshop, where he served as one of the facilitators and directors.

A graduate of Mass Communication, Elijah has immersed himself in understanding and teaching the craft of filmmaking. He has attended, joined, and witnessed various film festivals such as CineSambal, CineRehiyon X, and CineGoma. Among his notable works is the short film "Ako ay May Lobo", which was an official entry in CineGoma. He has also participated in workshops and masterclasses, including **Rebelde Film Camp with Director Erik Matti and Tey Clamor, and completed the first-ever Film Workshop Series of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) in 2021 in partnership with The Manila Times College of Subic (TMTCS).

As a former Program Coordinator of TMTCS Media Arts, Elijah played a key role in mentoring students, including supervising one of his students who participated in The Manila Film Festival (TMFF). He also worked for the inclusion of TMTCS in the Academic Film Society of the FDCP, reinforcing his commitment to integrating film education into academic institutions.

His passion for theater extends to completing a workshop under Tanghalang Pilipino, titled KAPWA: Kamalayang Pilipino Workshop in the Arts**. He also conducts free workshops for Theater Arts, mentoring aspiring performers and storytellers.

Elijah has played an active role in arts and media education. He was the first Chairperson of The Manila Times College Creative Arts and Multimedia Program, later serving as its adviser. He also chartered the Society of Transcending Enthusiasts for Language, Literature & Artistic Resonance (STELLAR), an organization promoting artistic and literary excellence. Additionally, he was the President of Mondriaan Aura College's Aura Unified Media, a former member and later adviser of Teatro Gat Aitab, and served as Vice President of Toastmasters International - Cabalen San Fernandino Chapter.

Currently, he is a Civil Professional under the Judiciary, serving as a Court Interpreter III at the Supreme Court of the Philippines. His legal profession allows him to witness firsthand real-life stories—narratives that inspire a more authentic, relevant, and timely approach to storytelling.

Elijah’s dedication to the arts and education has earned him numerous accolades, including Best in Screenwriting at the Pamilya Saya Film Competition (2023) and Most Outstanding Youth Leader of Olongapo (2022). With Masteral units in Communication from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, he remains committed to mentoring aspiring filmmakers, advocating for artistic expression, and pushing the boundaries of creative storytelling in his community.

Personal Details
Profession:
Director
Mobile Number:
09773358100
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