Cultural heritage
& brand works:
bringing stories to life
Currently based in the Philippines. Living in Qatar.
Mark Daniel De Castro is a Filipino filmmaker, visual storyteller, and creative entrepreneur dedicated to visual storytelling that transcends boundaries and connects deeply with audiences. His artistic journey began with a vision of transforming stories into powerful narratives through film—capturing moments as a photojournalist, then evolving into a seasoned cinematographer, film editor, and colorist.
Daniel’s passion for storytelling shines through his brand films, which emphasize cultural heritage, community engagement, and socially impactful messaging. Collaborating with corporate clients and civic groups across the Asia-Pacific region, he crafts compelling films that resonate deeply with Filipino roots and global sensibilities. His narrative projects reflect a commitment to preserving culture and driving change.
Daniel's idea of directing a brand film focused on community engagement in a Filipino setting when he first learned about art as a medium. He has been able to express his ideas through the use of film. Running around in circles inside the school premises as a photojournalist, and layout & design creative; he proved that motion pictures can record events as they happen and make the events available again in real-time playback.
He started to master filmmaking as a cinematographer, film editor, and colorist for a film organization — leading fellow cinephiles to broaden a wide background in conceptualization for design and feasibility of effectiveness for post-production.
Daniel’s first independent narrative film, Grow My Mind (2020), captivated thousands of Filipinos on iWantTFC and was recognized at various international film festivals. As a cultural worker, Daniel’s unique perspective shapes every phase of his projects—from concept development to marketing and distribution. His works foster participation in local governance and champion the essence of cultural preservation through diverse screening platforms.
In 2022, Daniel showcased Sariling Gunita, a thought-provoking film featuring National Artist for Literature Virgilio S. Almario, which calls on viewers to embrace self-love while exploring Philippine culture. He has also collaborated on music videos with artists like Mista Blaze and Jeasper Ahongon. He has also produced branded content for industry leaders such as Globe Telecom, TV5 Philippines, and the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. His partnerships extend to institutions like the Bulacan State University, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, Rotary & Rotaract, and other respected organizations.
Beyond his film projects, Daniel co-founded a cinema camera rental business, further contributing to the creative industry by supporting fellow filmmakers and independent creatives. His mainstream media breakthrough, Hele by Eros Rhodes, with TMP Productions, marked another milestone in bringing visionary stories to life.
While Daniel’s successes are grounded in dedication and creative passion, his mission extends beyond the screen. He seeks to connect civic groups, creative individuals, and stakeholders with a common vision for advancing a better world through compelling narratives and meaningful collaborations.
Connect with Daniel today
Interested in powerful visual storytelling that captures the heart of your brand or initiative?
Reach out to collaborate with a filmmaker who understands the power of culture, creativity, and community.
Whether you’re a corporate leader, civic group, or creative visionary, Daniel is ready to bring your story to life.
AWARDS:
Sariling Gunita (Narrative short film)
Ika-35 Gawad CCP Para Sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video 2023 (Philippines) | SINEliksik Bulacan Docu Special 2022: Alagad ng Sining na Bulakenyo, Dangal ng lahing Pilipino!" (Philippines) | Cinema Rehiyon 15 @ Montañosa Film Festival 2023 (Philippines) | "Story?" International Student Documentary Festival (Ireland)
Halagahan Sa Akin (Narrative short film)
NCCA CinemaLamrag Online National Video Contest 2021 (Philippines) | Oroquieta Film Festival 2021 (Philippines) | Asian Film Festival 2022 (Canada)
Grow My Mind (Narrative short film)
Klima Film Festival 2020 (Philippines) | Kalakari Film Festival 2021 (India) | First-Time Filmmaker Online Sessions 2020 (UK | Hollywood) | Hamilton Arts Festival 2021 (USA)
Dindo (Narrative short film)
CineKabalen Film Festival 2019 (Philippines) | Cine Culinarya Film Festival 2022 (Philippines) | Hapag Ng Pamana: Pagkaing Pilipino Susi Sa Pag-Unlad at Pagbabago” 2022 (NCCA | Philippines)
Banayad / Kalmado (Fashion Film)
Sessions By Lift-Off Global Network 2021 (UK | Hollywood)
Noble International Film Festival And Awards 2021 (India)
RECOGNITIONS:
BulSU Gold Gears International Competition Awardee (Film) | 2020 - 2023
BulSU Student Goverment Batingaw: Gawad Lingkod Kabataan Awardee | 2019