MANILA, Philippines — We sort of know what to expect in an Antoinette Jadaone film. After all, the award-winning director could easily be credited for giving the word ‘hugot’ the profound, heart-wrenching meaning it has today. Just think That Thing Called Tadhana, Alone/Together and Never Not Love You. But how much feels can one put in a two-minute film?
Well, Direk Tonet proved one can pack so many emotions in 120 seconds as proven in the short film “Dahilan,” the new Century Tuna short film which sent thousands of viewers on a mini-rollercoaster ride of emotions.
In case you haven’t seen it, you can watch the full video on Century Tuna’s official Facebook page here to avoid spoilers ahead.
For those who have watched it in full, here’s a rundown of the emotions we went through watching the 2-minute masterpiece:
1. So motivated!
The short film starts off with a young man working out with improvised home equipment and is also making do with everyday chores as his workout.
Of course, Century Tuna, the country’s leading canned tuna known for promoting a healthy lifestyle through working out and eating healthy, has ‘Dahilan’ showing us that it’s possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle anytime, anywhere. You just need to be creative!
2. Touched beyond words
It then cuts to the young man cooking a simple meal which he brings to the rooftop of his small apartment for a simple dining setup complete with flowers.
While we all thought it was for a significant other, it was then revealed to be for his mom, a person living with a disability, and how he has been continuing this breakfast tradition with her. How touching is that?
3. Grateful for family
One of the significant lines of the short film was narrated by the son in a voiceover.
“Sa’yo ako humuhugot ng lakas. Kahit ang bigat ng mundo, kinakaya ko. Kasi ‘ma, kinaya mo,” he said.
This reminds us of our own moms and many of their sacrifices for the family—how they would stay up late to take care of us when we were sick; cook for the family even after coming home later after a long day at work; or help us with our schoolwork.
More than that, we are so thankful for having them to support, help and guide us through life’s ups and downs.
4. Full of hope
Arguably, the ongoing pandemic has been very tough for many of us. But every once in a while, we’re blessed with messages of hope.
During these challenging times, Century Tuna’s ‘Dahilan’ online video reminds us that in order for us to take care of the people we love, we should also remember to take care of ourselves. By being physically and mentally healthy, we can continue to keep going, we can continue to stay strong for our own “dahilan.”
From the rousing opening to the many heart-tugging mother-and-son moments, it’s safe to say that this short film took us on a whirlwind of emotions.
So if you haven’t yet, do watch ‘Dahilan’. Hopefully, like us, it will inspire and motivate you to stay strong and healthy for yourself and your loved ones.
To know more about Century Tuna, visit and follow Century Tuna’s Facebook page, @centurytuna or Instagram @centurytunasuperbods.