Herwin Benedictos Cabasal is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Far Eastern University (FEU) Manila, where he provided strategic leadership as Department Chair from 2021 to 2024. His academic career spans several prestigious institutions, including Centro Escolar University, Mapua University, and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, where he has lectured on communication, media, and film.

Academic Background & Research

Herwin’s scholarship is rooted in a deep understanding of the moving image. He earned his B.A. in Mass Communication (Broadcast) from Centro Escolar University, graduating cum laude, followed by a Diploma in Motion Picture Production from the Asia Pacific Film Institute. He holds an M.A. in Media Studies (Film) from the University of the Philippines Film Institute, where his research on social advocacy cinema was recognized with the Best Thesis award.

His research interests include:

• Social Advocacy Cinema
• Media Literacy & Media Ecology
• Visual Communication
• Alternative Cinema & Film Movements
• Film Festival Studies
• Human Rights

His scholarly work has been featured in respected publications such as Plaridel, PCS Review, and Pelikula.

Leadership & Professional Service

An active figure in the regional media landscape, Herwin has served as the Public Relations Director for the Southeast Asian Media Studies Association (SEAMSA) and as an assistant editor for its corresponding journal (SEAMSJ). He also served as the Assistant Secretary of the Philippine Communication Association of Educators (PACE).

At FEU, he is the visionary behind Likhang Mulat: FEU Film Movements Festival, an initiative he has spearheaded since 2019, and currently serves as the adviser for the FEU Film Society.

Creative Practice & Industry Experience

Before his full-time transition to academia, Herwin gained industry experience within the Television Production Department of ABS-CBN Corporation. As an alternative filmmaker, his creative portfolio is diverse, spanning social advocacy cinema, short narratives, experimental works, and documentaries.

Personal Interests & Aspirations

Beyond the classroom and the studio, Herwin is a dedicated advocate for holistic well-being, frequently found mountain hiking, running, or traveling. A true “cineaste” and “bibliophile,” he also finds joy in the nostalgic world of anime and superhero action figure collecting.

Driven by a lifelong commitment to learning and advocacy, Herwin is currently pursuing his next major milestone: becoming a lawyer.