A tribute to those who paved the way for CIMASUB

Celebrating 50 editions of CIMASUB also means looking back and acknowledging those who made it possible for this story to begin and continue to grow over half a century. This session will set aside a very special moment to pay tribute to the pioneers, contributors and veterans who, through their hard work, dedication and passion for the sea, have played an essential part in the festival’s history.

As part of this tribute, a short film created especially for the occasion will be screened – an emotional journey through the history of CIMASUB and the people who helped transform an initiative launched 50 years ago into a festival that remains alive and well, continuing to grow and passing on its love for the underwater world to new generations.

Over the past half-century, cameras, filming techniques, and formats have changed, as have many of the people who have been part of the festival. But one thing has remained constant: the work of those who, year after year, were behind the screenings and the organization, ensuring that CIMASUB could continue.

Among them, Francisco Pizarro—Paco—holds a very special place as the founder of CIMASUB and one of the key figures in the festival’s early decades. Paco, who is no longer with us, was closely tied to the growth and development of the event, leaving an indelible mark on its history.

Alongside him, many other veterans also played a key role in this journey. People who, through their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment, helped build what CIMASUB is today: Regina González (widow of Paco Pizarro); Javier Herrero and Mª Jesús Aristeguieta; Arantxa Urtiaga (widow of José R. Viles); Alfredo Kauffman and Puri Moreno; Jesús Insausti and Arantza Zubizarreta; Borja Inza and Itxiar Arratibel; Jesús Casal and Consuelo Jaurrieta; Nano Cordovilla and Elena Gallego; Jesús Castillo and Montse Rodríguez; Patxi Díaz and Ione Fernández; and Juanma Cousillas.

All of them contributed, in one way or another, to keeping the festival alive during its early decades. Hours of work, collaboration, and many tasks that aren’t always visible, but which are essential for an event like CIMASUB to succeed.

Above all, this tribute is meant to be a recognition of that work and of all the people who have taken up the torch over the years. Because the history of CIMASUB cannot be told solely through the films screened, the photographers and filmmakers who have participated, or the awards presented. It is also told through the people behind the scenes who made it possible for the festival to continue growing.

Fifty years after that first screening, CIMASUB continues to bring the underwater world to thousands of people and to help new generations discover the richness of our oceans.