Shaina Magdayao took her flight to the United States, all ready for her duty as a member of the jury at the New York Asian Film Festival.

The actress opened up about the excitement and, at the same time, anxiety she feels days before the film fest opens, as per her Instagram page on Tuesday, July 9.

“This will be my first time attending NYAFF and serving as part of a film jury. I must admit that I’m a little anxious but definitely very excited to learn more about Global Cinema and filmmakers,” she said.

“Despite our busy jury schedule, I’m looking forward to our daily film screenings and the jury’s discussions and deliberations since I know I’ll be learning a lot from the Asian filmmakers who will also be attending,” she continued.

Magdayao then made mention of her “mentors,” director Lav Diaz and producer Bianca Balbuena-Liew, whom she worked with in the 2023 film “Essential Truths of the Lake.”

“I owe a debt of gratitude to my mentors in the film industry…for introducing me to international cinema and elevating my respect for our craft and this profession,” she said.

“Truly humbled and honored to represent our country at this point in my life and career. Salamat, NYAFF for inviting me, and the Philippines,” she added. “Wherever He takes me and however I can serve Him best, I guess.”

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Aside from Magdayao, other jury members include writer-producer-director Tony Bui, Thai actor Nonkul Chanon Santinatornkul, producer Shao-yi Chen, Golden Scene Sales and Acquisitions Manager Felix Tsang, and The Criterion Channel Head of Programming Aliza Ma.

The New York Asian Film Festival will run from July 12 to July 28.