Bagong Silang Productions, a group of student filmmakers from the University of Northern Philippines, clinched the top prize in the Young Adult (Best Documentary) category at DokyuBata 2025, triumphing over nine other finalists. The awards night took place on November 28 at The Heritage Hotel Manila in Pasay City, marking a remarkable first-time victory for the team in a national documentary competition.
The winning team from the UNP is made up of ten talented students representing diverse academic backgrounds. Nine members hail from the College of Arts and Sciences, while one represents the College of Business Administration and Accountancy. The group includes Roman Paolo Atianzar, Daniela Estelle Iya, Ma. Carolanne Rapacon, George Purugganan Jr., ReizellAnne Talavera, Krizia Miles Almazan, Drexli Joanna Ambida, Alysa Mae Ardiente, Jerick Galindo, and Cris Niño Planta, whose collaborative efforts and creativity propelled them to national recognition.
Their award-winning documentary, “Mahal Kong Zarzuela,” shines a spotlight on Ilokano culture by exploring the rich tradition of the zarzuela—a theatrical art form that combines music, dialogue, and drama, now facing the threat of extinction. The film intimately chronicles the life of Damiana “Diming” Adoc, one of the province’s most senior zarzuelistas, capturing her experiences and struggles as the art she has dedicated her life to gradually fade from public memory. Through Diming’s story, the documentary emphasizes the urgent need to safeguard and revitalize this treasured cultural heritage for future generations.
Roman Paolo Atianzar, director of Bagong Silang Productions, urged aspiring young filmmakers to embrace creativity and originality in their craft. He encouraged them to take risks and carve out their unique voices in storytelling. “Be brave and bold. Dare to be different and stand out. Film is a powerful medium for sharing stories that matter—stories that resonate and endure. Our journey with Bagong Silang shows that compelling narratives and strong writing will always find their audience,” Atianzar said, highlighting the importance of passion and authenticity in filmmaking.
Atianzar emphasized that compelling stories do not need to be extravagant or flashy; what matters most is their ability to resonate deeply. He reminded audiences that a genuine love for art—even in its most unconventional forms—can serve as a powerful remedy against forgetfulness and cultural erosion.
Now in its ninth year, DokyuBata 2025, organized by the National Council for Children’s Television, carries the theme “Kilometer 0: Mga Lokal na Kuwento para sa PandaigdigangAdhikain at Pagbabago” (“Local Stories for Global Goals and Change”). The annual festival provides a platform for young Filipino documentarists to bring local narratives to life—stories that raise questions, illuminate community realities, and connect their messages to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals as well as the long-term AmBisyon Natin 2040 vision of a secure, comfortable, and prosperous life for every Filipino.
Article by Kennedy Jetajobe
