FROM THE MARGINS
Last week, I wrote about the 2024 SineMaya Community Film Festival, the microfinance industry’s version of Cinemalaya. The SineMaya film fest also aims to promote Filipino independent films, but it is focused on the clients of microfinance and social development organizations that work with poor and marginalized communities. SineMaya features films that are written, produced, and performed by the clients themselves, bringing their real stories to life, on-screen.
Watching the 16 film entries in this year’s SineMaya reminded me of James Baldwin’s beautiful words about social activism:
“The world changes according to the way people see it, and if you can alter, even by a millimeter, the way people look at reality, then, you can change the world.”
SineMaya films offer a glimpse into the everyday lives of ordinary people who face almost insurmountable odds, helping us understand the complex causes and far-reaching effects of poverty. By speaking their truths, these people are all winners in my book. Their cinematic narratives celebrate the indomitable human spirit that perseveres through hope and resilience. They are also testaments to how social development organizations act as catalysts for change by empowering families and communities.
Bente Productions held SineMaya’s awarding ceremonies on Dec. 15 at SM Sto. Tomas, Batangas. This remarkable event brought together over 150 attendees, including clients and staff from various microfinance institutions (MFIs) across the Philippines, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. It was a powerful demonstration of the universal appeal of stories that uplift and inspire. It was also a heartfelt recognition of the collective passion, dedication, and hard work that brought this festival to life.
Awardees
Best film: Teoryang “Ako” by Tinig Maralita Productions of K-Coop (Kabuhayan sa Ganap na Kasarinlan Credit & Savings Cooperative). The film explores the struggles and triumphs of marginalized individuals who find strength, purpose, and community through a supportive cooperative. John Patrick Bequillo’s standout performance earned him the Best Actor award. I selected this film as one of my Founder’s Choice Award recipients, recognizing its profound message and exceptional execution.
People’s Choice Award: “Balud: Waves of Resilience,” produced by Balud Team Productions of CARD, Inc., tells the story of Lando, a humble fisherman striving to rebuild his life after a devastating typhoon. With the support of a social development organization, Lando’s journey from despair to hope not only transforms his life but also inspires his community, highlighting the transformative power of determination and collective support.
Best cinematography: “Escaping Poverty: A Story of a Muong Woman Supported by TYM.” This compelling film by TYM MFI Productions, Vietnam chronicles the life of Bui Thi Thu Huyen, a member of the Muong ethnic minority who overcame poverty through hard work and the support of her MFI. The film beautifully illustrates her family’s journey from scarcity to stability, illustrating the life-changing impact of microfinance and resilience.
Founder’s Choice Award: “Mingalarbar!” by CMCL Production Team of CARD Myanmar Company Limited. Rooted in the Burmese greeting ‘Mingalarbar’, which symbolizes prosperity and positivity, the film reflects CARD Myanmar’s unwavering commitment to its clients and staff. It showcases how hope and dedication can overcome even the most complex challenges.
Community Development Awards: “Hope in the Tides” by NWTF Project Dungganon and Sa PILIng ni Inay by Team Come Sur of ASA Philippines. Both films highlight the transformative role of financial literacy, illustrating how individuals and families can rise above adversity with the right support, knowledge and determination.
Managing Director’s Award: “Tinapay” by Ka-Reals Production of PALMFSI (People’s Alternative Livelihood Microfinance Foundation of Sorsogon, Inc.). This tells the heartwarming story of Conchita, who overcomes life’s toughest challenges with faith and community support. Princess Lasala received the Best Supporting Actress award for her touching performance as Angelica.
Other notable awards included Best Actress, awarded to Abygail Mirandilla for her role as Victoria Manalo in “Victoria” (Victory) by Cinebughaw Films of Malvar Senior High School, and Best Supporting Actor, which went to Paul Kenneth Fordan for his portrayal of Bikbik in Antipara at Libreta by CARD MBA.
Grand finale
The event’s highlight was the premiere of Bente Productions’ first full-length film, “I Remember You,” which was written and directed by multi-awarded author/artist/director Hugo Yonzon. Filmed in beautiful Boracay Island and starring acclaimed actors JC Santos and Valeen Montenegro, the film zeroes in on the life of microfinance workers and their close connection to the community. It resonated deeply with the audience, as it tells their real-life stories, reinforcing both the mission of social development organizations and the power of the community.
To all the participants, organizers, and supporters of SineMaya — congratulations! Beyond showcasing films, SineMaya is a celebration of our shared dreams of social transformation. May the lessons and inspiration from these films continue to ripple across communities, igniting hope and resilience in all of us.
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“In trying to make a big difference, don’t ignore the small daily differences we can make.” – Marian Wright Edelman
(Dr. Jaime Aristotle B. Alip is a poverty eradication advocate. He is the founder of the Center for Agriculture and Rural Development Mutually-Reinforcing Institutions (CARD MRI), a group of 23 organizations that provide social development services to eight million economically-disadvantaged Filipinos and insure more than 27 million nationwide.)