Ricky Lee Launches New Scriptwriting Manual “Quiapo Ilalim” at Cinemalaya 22

MANILA, Philippines — National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee launched his latest scriptwriting manual, Quiapo Ilalim: Pagsusulat ng Iba’t Ibang Daan, on August 14, 2026, during the 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival.

The new book follows Lee’s 1998 scriptwriting manual, Trip to Quiapo, and draws from his experience conducting scriptwriting workshops, lectures and exercises over the years.

“The launch of Quiapo Ilalim marks the release of a new manual based on Lee’s decades of experience as a screenwriter, workshop mentor and teacher.”

Lee has conducted scriptwriting workshops for aspiring writers and filmmakers for decades. His official biography states that he began offering free scriptwriting workshops in 1982 and has since produced hundreds of graduates.

Published by the Film Academy of the Philippines in partnership with Ricky Lee Writing Services, Quiapo Ilalim was made available for purchase during the launch. Supporters and fans were able to buy copies at a special event discount and have their books signed by Lee.

The launch programme featured readings and presentations by Filipino artists Epy Quizon, Cherry Pie Picache, Rocco Nacino, Martin del Rosario, Yayo Aguila, Meryll Soriano, Bayang Barrios, Chai Fonacier and Nour Hooshmand.

One of the featured presentations saw Chai Fonacier read an excerpt from Curacha: Ang Babaeng Walang Pahinga, the 1988 film directed by Chito S. Roño and written by Roño and Ricky Lee.

Trip to Quiapo was published in 1998 and became one of Lee’s notable works on screenwriting. His continuing workshops have also made screenwriting education a significant part of his career.

The launch of Quiapo Ilalim marks the release of a new manual based on Lee’s decades of experience as a screenwriter, workshop mentor and teacher.