Wazzup Pilipinas!?
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) recently brought the power of the arts to the forefront by showcasing five student documentaries at the Dokyumentado film festival. Held across various cinematheque centers nationwide, this film festival provided a platform for budding filmmakers to explore the transformative power of documentary storytelling while highlighting the pressing issues that shape our society. A significant part of this year's festival was a talkback session in Manila, where filmmakers and the audience engaged in thought-provoking discussions about the role of the arts in community development and social change.
The festival saw a captivating panel discussion moderated by Richard Soriano Legaspi, an award-winning filmmaker and faculty member at the University of the East College of Fine Arts, Architecture, and Design. The discussion provided a unique perspective from some of the most talented young filmmakers in the country. On the panel were Josh Mutia, director of Balde at Brotsa from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde; Trisha See, producer of Guhit Recto from Far Eastern University; Elvin Jay Macanlalay, one of the filmmakers of How the Beasts Got Hyped from the University of the East College of Fine Arts and Design; Jasper Tan, producer of A Bad Name from FEU; and Christina Alyssa “Aysie” Damaso, director of Pinta from Mapúa University.
These filmmakers presented their works, which brought attention to a variety of community-driven narratives, each shedding light on different aspects of society and identity. The discussion highlighted how art—particularly documentary film—has the power to both reflect and challenge societal norms, providing a critical lens through which audiences can understand complex issues.
Balde at Brotsa – Art Amidst Struggle
One of the most impactful films in the festival, Balde at Brotsa, directed by Josh Mutia, delves deep into the lives of three artists who struggle to find purpose in their work. As they navigate personal battles with societal oppression, their stories serve as a metaphor for the wider struggles faced by marginalized communities. The documentary asks an important question: Should they continue to create in the face of overwhelming adversity, or will they succumb to the societal pressures that threaten to weigh them down?
Guhit Recto – The Artistic Chaos of Recto
In Guhit Recto, the life of an artist named Levy is captured, revealing how his surroundings shape his creative process. Having spent most of his life in the chaotic streets of Recto, Levy’s work is deeply influenced by the culture of the area. His humble workspace in the Central Market serves as the heart of his creative output, facilitated by his wife, who acts as an intermediary between Levy and his clients. Yet, for Levy, his artistic legacy isn’t about the fame or recognition he receives from clients or peers. It’s about the kind of memory he leaves for future generations—particularly, the portrait that will hang in the home of his grandchildren, a portrait that can never be replicated.
How the Beasts Got Hyped – The Hypebeast Culture
How the Beasts Got Hyped, directed by Elvin Jay Macanlalay, introduces us to a group of eccentric kids who identify as “hypebeasts”—a subculture that thrives on street fashion. These kids, constantly seen on the streets, malls, and parks, are bound by a shared love for street style. But beyond the clothes and the trends, the documentary explores the sense of community and identity they find in this culture, offering a deeper understanding of their collective need to belong.
A Bad Name – The Dichotomy of Street Art
Street art continues to evolve as both a form of creative expression and social commentary. A Bad Name, produced by Jasper Tan, presents two street artists with contrasting views on the art form. As they share their differing perspectives, the documentary brings attention to the ongoing debate surrounding the relevance of street art in today’s society. Adding an air of mystery, the film features an enigmatic graffiti piece that simply reads “Bon Jovi,” leaving viewers to ponder its meaning and implications.
Pinta – Art as a Weapon of Social Change
Lastly, Pinta explores the life of a graffiti artist turned activist. Christina Alyssa “Aysie” Damaso’s documentary delves into the journey of an artist who becomes involved with Panday Sining, a cultural organization that uses art as a tool for social change. Often accused of vandalism for their graffiti messages scattered throughout Metro Manila, Panday Sining challenges the status quo by using visual art as a form of activism and protest.
Dokyumentado's Impact: Raising Awareness and Inspiring Change
Dokyumentado aims to highlight documentary filmmaking as a powerful tool for raising awareness, inspiring social change, and encouraging diverse perspectives. Through the works of these emerging filmmakers, the festival demonstrated how documentaries can serve as mirrors to our society, reflecting the struggles, joys, and complexities of everyday life.
The FDCP is also looking forward to the future of the festival, announcing plans to hold a competition for the second edition of Dokyumentado later this year. With the growing interest in documentary filmmaking and the increasing importance of media in shaping public discourse, the festival promises to continue its mission of providing a platform for the next generation of Filipino filmmakers to make their voices heard.
As the power of storytelling continues to evolve in the digital age, it’s clear that the role of film—especially documentaries—remains an essential part of cultural dialogue. The FDCP’s efforts in organizing this festival are not just about showcasing the work of students but about creating spaces for critical reflection, community engagement, and, ultimately, social transformation.
With the momentum built by the success of this year’s festival, Dokyumentado promises to remain a vital and inspiring force in the Philippine film industry for years to come. Stay tuned for more as the festival continues to provide emerging filmmakers with the tools and platform they need to tell stories that matter.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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