Mindanao Documentary Earns Special Audience Recognition at Prestigious Dhaka Film Festival
In a significant achievement for Philippine cinema, the documentary Beneath the Badge (Sa Likod ng Tsapa) has received the Special Mention Award at the Dhaka International Film Festival in Bangladesh. This recognition, based entirely on audience response, highlights the film's powerful emotional impact and its ability to connect with viewers across different cultural backgrounds.
A Story That Transcends Borders
The documentary, created by Mindanao-based journalist and filmmaker Editha Z. Caduaya, explores the life of Police Colonel Hansel M. Marantan, revealing the personal challenges, victories, and sacrifices that exist behind the uniform of a police officer. What began as a journalistic inquiry evolved into a full-length documentary that examines the moral struggles and personal costs associated with public service in the Philippines.
"This recognition came directly from the audience, and that makes it profoundly meaningful," Caduaya stated. "It tells us that stories from Mindanao—told honestly and without embellishment—can move people anywhere in the world."
Validation for Regional Storytelling
The Special Mention Award at Dhaka—one of South Asia's most respected and longest-running film festivals—represents an important milestone for Mindanao cinema. This sector has historically been underrepresented in national and international film circles despite possessing numerous compelling narratives.
"This is a win for filmmakers from the regions," Caduaya emphasized. "It proves that we do not need to come from major production centers to tell stories that matter. Mindanao has voices worth listening to, and this recognition honors that."
Journalistic Foundation Meets Cinematic Achievement
Caduaya, who has worked in journalism for more than three decades, expressed surprise at how her reporting-based approach has reached international audiences. "I never imagined that a story rooted in reporting would find its way to an international audience and be honored in this way," she shared. "This award affirms the power of truth-based storytelling."
The filmmaker described the recognition as a collective achievement for Philippine cinema, stating: "This is not just about one film. It is about Filipino filmmakers who continue to create despite limitations, who choose courage over convenience, and who believe that our stories deserve a place on the global stage."
Future Prospects and Broader Impact
With this Special Audience Award, Beneath the Badge gains momentum toward wider screenings and a planned national theatrical release. The documentary carries with it the pride of Philippine storytelling and contributes to the growing international recognition of Mindanao filmmakers.
Caduaya concluded with a hopeful message about the award's broader significance: "If this film encourages even one young storyteller from the regions to believe in their voice, then this recognition has already achieved something far greater than an award."
This achievement underscores the increasing global presence of Philippine documentaries, particularly those emerging from regional production centers outside traditional film hubs. The recognition at Dhaka International Film Festival demonstrates how authentic storytelling from Mindanao can resonate with diverse audiences worldwide, validating the importance of regional perspectives in Philippine cinema.
