In a powerful tribute to the nation's past, a special screening of award-winning documentary films from Bulacan province took center stage in Manila, marking the 80th anniversary of the Philippines' liberation from Japanese occupation.
Kasaysayan sa MET: A Stage for Historical Art
The event, held on December 9 at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theater, was part of the "Kasaysayan sa MET" program. This initiative is a collaborative effort by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) to showcase artistic expressions of Philippine history.
Featured were all 21 documentary entries from the 5th SINEliksik Bulacan DocuFest, produced in 2023. These films were created under the poignant theme "Pagsubok at Pagtindig Noong Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig" (Struggle and Resilience During the Second World War), focusing on the untold stories of sacrifice and heroism of Filipino veterans.
Modern Heroes and Historical Lessons
During the screening, May Arlene DG. Torres, Officer-in-Charge Department Head of the Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office (Phacto) of Bulacan, delivered a stirring message. She connected the past struggles with present-day challenges facing Filipinos.
"The Second World War is over and the foreign invaders are gone, but we are now facing new challenges and struggles in our society. Amidst these trials, the call is clear: let us stand as modern-day heroes of our time," Torres urged the audience.
NCCA Chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo emphasized the profound significance of the films. He stated that each documentary was not merely a piece of art but a vital contribution to shaping a nation that deeply values truth and history. He praised the Provincial Government of Bulacan, through Phacto, for its exceptional initiative in advancing culture and the arts.
"I am very impressed with the film posters I saw, and I am even more impressed that this is a project of the Provincial Government of Bulacan. I truly salute you for this work. This project is excellent," Chairman Manalo commended.
Showcasing Bulacan's Cinematic Tribute
The event presented a full slate of documentaries from both junior and senior categories of the province-wide competition. The films that captivated the Manila audience included:
- Bahawin: Lunas sa Gitna ng Giyera
- Ciento Dos
- Dapit Hapon: Pisara
- Doyen
- Impiong
- Pionio: Beteranong Sundalong Doktor
- Manong (Hen. Alejo Santos: Pagtakas sa Bataan at Paglaya ng Bulacan)
- Alaala ni Lolo Pimong
- Ang Mamatay Nang Dahil Sa 'Yo
- Bulihan: Mga Kwento ng Labanan at Kabayanihan
- DuHaWis (Gerilya: Dugong Bayani)
- Gunita ng Dapit Hapon
- Henyo
- Kunan
- March of Death (Nicanor 'Bapa' R. Songco Sr.: Minsan sa Isang Kasaysayan)
- Mga Bulaklak ng Nakaraan
- Padoc
- Panaghoy ng Isang Gerilya
- Panaghoy: Mga Piping Sigaw sa Bahay na Pula
- Sa Dagat at Bundok
- Sa Dulo ng Bayoneta
This special screening at the Metropolitan Theater successfully bridged local history from Bulacan with a national audience, using the powerful medium of film to ensure the legacy of World War II heroes continues to inspire future generations.
