Full swing

We just successfully completed the Sinulog grand parade, which was initially marred by some hateful posts about its venue but still drew a large number of visitors. Because of the three-year absence of the Sinulog, the audience has been ecstatic.

Just days after the grand parade, we will be treated to two highly-anticipated activities or competitions that are also part of the whole Sinulog celebration. One of these is the Sinulog film festival, where filmgoers will be treated to original short films by Cebuano filmmakers. This has provided an opportunity for local filmmakers to showcase Cebuano narratives on the big screen. This also serves as a springboard for future filmmakers who will eventually join the ranks of national filmmakers who will be busy in Manila and abroad for some big projects; the likes of Kenneth Dagatan, Remton Siega Zuasola, and Christian Paolo Lat have paved the way for budding local filmmakers.

Throughout the years, talented Cebuano filmmakers have captured the essence of the celebration, from the grand to the mundane. With a wide range of themes spanning multiple genres, these films will undoubtedly sting your eyes, make you laugh, and tug at your heartstrings.

Previous Sinulog film festivals' themes have centered on faith, specifically faith in the miraculous Child Jesus. Such faith is reflected in the lives of ordinary people such as a mother, a child, a brother, a sister, and many others. And this faith brings them together in reconciliation and unity. It's worth noting that I have a feeling that healing and inner peace will be the dominant carrying themes in some or most of the entries for this year's festival. This comes after what we've been through in the last three years as a result of the pandemic.

Another anticipated activity is the creation of a music video for our local music fans. This is yet another powerful platform for our local musicians to showcase their musical prowess. For so long, this industry has created a special niche for the ears not only in Cebuano-speaking regions, but also throughout the country and around the world, as Cebuanos are practically everywhere.

Some people have no concept of average quality; they are either excellent or extremely poor. Unfortunately, the under-promotion problem persists. Another observation is that local artists would wait for imperial Manila to validate and dictate the worth and type of films and music that they would produce. This is due to the pervasive public perception of insufficient public support as well as a production budget deficit. If it is Bisdak, it is assumed to be mediocre or, to a lesser extent, old school.

On an optimistic note, both film and music have long been part of the Cebuano culture and psyche, reflecting the unique Cebuano way of life. For the aged, both Cebuano films and music will serve as a reminder of their earlier years of hardship and simplicity. But now, especially for the young, Cebuano film and music must keep up with technological advancements while also hoping to leave a lasting legacy to future generations.

Let us carry on the tradition of bringing our local stories to the big screen and through the melodies that Cebuanos are famous for.