A Deep Dive into the Cultural Power of Documentaries at Dokyumentado Film Festival

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.

Angara Champions Key Sectors to Boost Employability at 12th PQF-NCC Meeting

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a significant step towards improving the employability of Filipino workers, Secretary Sonny Angara of the Department of Education (DepEd) presided over the 12th Philippine Qualifications Framework National Coordinating Council (PQF-NCC) meeting at Bulwagan ng Karunungan. This marked Angara's first time chairing the meeting, where critical discussions centered on addressing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s priority of enhancing employability through skills development and lifelong learning.

The Philippine Qualifications Framework (PQF) serves as a crucial reform to ensure the country’s workforce is better prepared to meet the demands of a competitive global market. By aligning qualifications with national standards and fostering continuous education, the PQF aims to equip the Filipino youth with the skills necessary for future job markets.

Strengthening the Framework for a Competitive Workforce

During the meeting, Secretary Angara led the approval of the PQF-NCC Response letter to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), which outlined an updated organizational structure for the Council. The proposal includes the creation of 22 new plantilla positions to bolster the framework’s operations, reflecting the growing need for more robust management of the PQF's implementation.

In collaboration with the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), DepEd also announced plans to establish a permanent secretariat to streamline the PQF’s functions. The secretariat, to be led by an Executive Director V (equivalent to an Undersecretary), will oversee vital operations, ensuring that the PQF remains efficient and sustainable. Interim staff and technical support will be provided by DAP officials, including Vice President Arnel D. Abanto and Fellow Amor Avendaño, until the new structure is fully operational.

Fostering Collaboration for Industry Relevance

A major outcome of the meeting was the establishment of a technical working group (TWG) tasked with identifying priority sectors that will drive the country’s economic growth. The group will include representatives from both government agencies and private sector partners, ensuring a comprehensive approach to skills development. Initial sectors identified for immediate focus include semiconductors and electronics, manufacturing, tourism and hospitality, maritime, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

This collaborative effort is aimed at aligning the PQF with the country’s economic goals, ensuring that the qualifications and skills provided to Filipino workers meet the needs of key industries. In a world where technology and industry are rapidly evolving, Angara emphasized the importance of an adaptable and future-ready workforce.

Ensuring Easy Mobility Across Education and Labor Markets

To further simplify the PQF’s application, the Council also set up another TWG to ensure that the framework remains user-friendly and facilitates smoother transitions for individuals moving between education sectors and the labor market, both locally and internationally. This move aims to break down barriers between education, skills development, and employment, giving workers more access to opportunities both in the Philippines and abroad.

Public Awareness and Commitment to Transparency

In a bid to keep the public informed, the PQF-NCC committed to using various media platforms to share updates, accomplishments, and milestones. A dedicated website (https://pqf.gov.ph/) has been launched to serve as the hub for all information related to the PQF, ensuring transparency and widespread awareness of its objectives.

Representatives from key member agencies such as the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) attended the meeting. Officials from the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM) II, and the U.S.-Philippines Partnership for Skills, Innovation, and Lifelong Learning (UPSKILL) Program were also present, underlining the strong international and interagency support for the PQF's initiatives.

A Promising Path to National Development

As the Philippines continues to face challenges and opportunities in a fast-evolving global economy, the PQF stands as a beacon of hope for a workforce that is not only skilled but also agile and competitive. Secretary Angara’s leadership and the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved signal a bright future for Filipino workers who will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of both local and international job markets.

The Department of Education’s commitment to the PQF’s objectives is more vital than ever. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and skills development, the Philippines is taking decisive steps toward building a more employable, skilled, and globally competitive workforce.

BIR Breaks 20-Year Drought, Hits 2024 Collection Target of Php 2.848 Trillion

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has achieved a historic milestone by surpassing its 2024 collection target of Php 2.848 trillion, marking the first time in 20 years that the agency has fully met its collection goals. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of BIR personnel and the significant reforms implemented under the leadership of Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr.

In a statement released today, Commissioner Lumagui expressed his pride in the agency's success. “After 20 long years, the BIR has finally reached its full collection target. The BIR has collected at least Php 2.848 trillion for 2024. All credit belongs to the men and women of the BIR. Mabuhay po kayong lahat!” Lumagui exclaimed, acknowledging the hard work of BIR staff members.

Although the final figures are still being reconciled, the BIR is confident that they have reached their target, with final confirmation expected by mid-February 2025. The agency anticipates that the numbers will continue to rise as the final data is processed.

A Historic Achievement Built on Reforms

This remarkable achievement is the culmination of years of hard work and reform. Commissioner Lumagui attributes the BIR’s success to the continuous efforts made to improve governance and taxpayer services. Under his leadership, the BIR has undergone a transformation, shifting toward a more taxpayer-oriented agency. This has led to a noticeable increase in voluntary taxpayer compliance.

“The dedication to Good Governance reforms, manifested by our shift to a taxpayer-oriented agency, has increased the voluntary compliance of taxpayers,” Lumagui noted. “This goes to show that if government agencies improve their services, processes, and programs, our countrymen will do the right thing and pay their proper share of taxes.”

The BIR’s four-pronged approach to governance—fearless and aggressive enforcement, excellent taxpayer service, integrity and professionalism, and digitalization—has proven to be a key driver of this success. By focusing on these pillars, the BIR has been able to modernize and streamline operations, ensuring a more efficient and transparent tax system.

Revolutionizing Tax Enforcement

One of the cornerstones of Lumagui's reforms has been the fight against tax fraud and illegal activities, particularly through the creation of the Run After Fake Transactions (RAFT) task force. This initiative targets the notorious issue of ghost receipts, a major source of tax evasion. The BIR’s enhanced enforcement efforts are designed to crack down on dishonest practices and ensure that all businesses comply with tax regulations.

Additionally, Lumagui’s administration has worked to level the playing field between traditional retail and online stores. The introduction of a withholding tax system for online retailers has helped ensure that e-commerce businesses pay their fair share of taxes, addressing an area that has long been a gray zone for tax authorities.

“The BIR will continue its cooperation with the private sector and its taxpayers. You are our partner in nation-building. Without your support, we could not have reached our Php 2.848 trillion goal. Marami pong salamat sa inyong walang-sawang suporta sa amin,” Lumagui said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with businesses and citizens.

The Road Ahead: Strengthening Partnerships and Future Goals

While the BIR has reached a significant milestone, Lumagui emphasized that the agency’s work is far from over. As the Philippines continues to recover from the economic downturn caused by the pandemic, the BIR aims to build on this success by further strengthening its relationships with taxpayers and the private sector.

Although the BIR did reach its collection goal in 2020, the target was considerably reduced due to the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This makes the full attainment of the Php 2.848 trillion target in 2024 even more remarkable, as it reflects a complete recovery and growth trajectory.

With the foundation of transparency, integrity, and taxpayer engagement now firmly in place, the BIR is poised to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years, contributing significantly to the country’s economic stability and growth.

A Bright Future for the BIR and the Philippines

The 2024 collection achievement not only reflects the BIR's improved efficiency but also highlights the Philippines' growing economic resilience. This success is a significant step forward in the country’s journey toward greater financial stability and prosperity. With the continued leadership of Commissioner Lumagui and the BIR’s ongoing commitment to reform, the future looks bright for both taxpayers and the nation as a whole.

The BIR’s achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished when government agencies prioritize public service, integrity, and collaboration with the private sector. As the BIR moves into 2025, all eyes will be on how it continues to build on this success and work toward even greater financial milestones.