profile

NEIL DAZA, is an award-winning cinematographer, documentary photographer, and visual artist whose 34-year career has shaped some of the most iconic works in Philippine cinema. Known for his evocative visual storytelling, he has lensed landmark films like Dekada ’70(2002), Feng Shui(2004), Emir(2010), Bwaya(2014), Oda sa Wala(2018), Fan Girl(2020), Firefly(2023), Green Bones (2024) and most recently Cinemalaya 2025 Jury Prize- “Cinemartyrs”. Daza’s style—marked by emotional depth, realism, and masterful lighting—reflects his roots in documentary photography and visual arts. His work often explores themes of identity, memory, and the Filipino political experience, bringing authenticity and empathy to every frame. With a legacy built on both commercial success and artistic excellence, Daza continues to push the visual boundaries of Philippine cinema.

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WORKS :

SELECTED WORKS 2017 (Bwaya, Badil, Ka Oryang, Feng Shui, Etiquette For Mistresses, Nabubulok, The Ghost Bride)

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SELECTED INDIE WORKS 2016 (Ka Oryang, Mamay Umeng, Badil, Bwaya)

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CONVERSATIONS :

The Wildcast podcast with Jp Alipio, co-founder of the Cordillera Conservation Trust, conservation advocate and National Geographic Explorer. (2020)

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7B7TKuWBvOObLUHzytpopR?si=QB5AbOWcSB2n_7yd5hUmfQ

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Third World Cinema Club podcast with Neil Daza and Theo Lozada (2019) https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/third-world-cinema/episode-28-neil-daza-and-KcIvhkx5Hdb/ (2019)

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Pinoy Movieland In The Eyes of Neil Daza by Philbert Dy / Rouge Magazine (2018)

https://neildaza.com/2018/11/30/conversations-2-pinoy-movieland-in-the-eyes-of-neil-daza/

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The Mendiola Narratives Project (2008). Neil Daza narrates his first-hand account of the Mendiola Massacre.

http://mendiolanarratives.blogspot.com/2008/11/neil-daza.html

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Interview with a Cinematographer – Neil Daza : The Eye of an Eclectic Beholder by Gina S. Cariño (2002)

https://neildaza.com/2018/10/02/conversation-1-dekada-70-2002/