In celebration of womanhood and the enduring spirit of Filipino women, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) is expanding access to Philippine arts and culture through a compelling lineup of performances, films, and original productions streaming on the CCP Channel this March.
Featuring acclaimed Cinemalaya titles, Gawad Alternatibo finalists, a Virgin Labfest play, and regional dance presentations, the month-long program highlights stories that honor the struggles, resilience, and lived experiences of women across different communities and generations.
Through these works, CCP Channel invites audiences to engage in meaningful conversations about women’s voices, contributions, and narratives in Philippine society.
Award-Winning Films and Theater on Stream
Headlining this month’s selections is “Absurdo: Event Day” by BJ Crisostomo, a sharp one-act play first staged during the Virgin Labfest 2022. The satirical production follows event coordinators Aly and Rain as they scramble to manage an extravagant “End of the World Party.” As the clock ticks toward humanity’s final moments, the pair must juggle impossible client demands and the relentless expectations of the events industry.
Through humor and absurdity, the play cleverly critiques the country’s hustle culture and the often-invisible labor behind celebratory events, challenging the idea that exhaustion is simply part of dedication.
CCP Channel also features notable Cinemalaya films that explore identity, migration, and emotional survival.
In “Mga Dayo (Resident Aliens)” directed by Julius Sotomayor Cena, three Filipina immigrants in Guam navigate complicated realities during Thanksgiving Day—from green card marriages to strained relationships—while grappling with questions of belonging and the meaning of home.
Meanwhile, “Kargo,” directed by TM Malones and winner of the 2022 Cinemalaya Audience Choice Award, tells the story of Sara, a woman haunted by the tragic death of her family in a motorcycle accident in Maasin, Iloilo. Driven by grief and suspicion that their deaths were not accidental, she embarks on a relentless search for the man she believes is responsible. The film explores trauma, vengeance, and the emotional weight of unresolved loss.
Spotlight on Emerging Voices: Gawad Alternatibo Finalists
This March also highlights thought-provoking works from Gawad Alternatibo 2025 finalists, showcasing bold storytelling from emerging filmmakers.
“Ang Pagbukod ni Melmel” by Nathaniel Tulingan follows a young Palaw’an girl who is forced into marriage to preserve tradition. As her wedding day approaches, Melmel struggles between honoring cultural expectations and asserting her own freedom, offering a nuanced portrayal of autonomy within indigenous communities.
In “Pulang Angui,” filmmaker Mary Jenica Robles presents an atmospheric animated folktale about courage and heritage. When mysterious forces awaken in her village, a young girl uncovers a forgotten legend that may change her community’s fate—blending folklore with reflections on bravery and cultural memory.
“Hinimo Ka Gikan Sa Yuta, Ug Sa Yuta Ka Pauli” by Gab Rosique presents an introspective visual essay that traces the relationship between a mother and son across rural and urban spaces through archival footage. The film meditates on memory, identity, and the ties that bind families across time and place.
Meanwhile, “Si Tes at Si Anggo” by Angelo A. Martinez offers a deeply moving documentary about resilience. The film chronicles more than a decade of Tes’ battle with breast cancer and the unwavering support of her son Anggo, who becomes her caregiver. Through archival and present-day footage, the documentary reflects on illness, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of family.
Regional Dances That Tell Stories of Love and Womanhood
Complementing the film and theater lineup are instructional and performance videos from the CCP T(A)YONG Dalawa Project 2023, which celebrate the beauty and tragedy of womanhood through traditional regional dances.
Among them is “Salip: Ligawan sa Kumot,” a Kalinga courtship dance centered on the kain, a handwoven cloth used as clothing or a blanket. In the playful ritual, suitors compete for a maiden’s affection by imitating a proud rooster, while the woman teases and evades them like a hen. The dance concludes when the maiden offers the cloth to her chosen suitor.
“Kuratsa: Ki-ay han Hulos na Gugma,” performed by the acclaimed Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, tells the story of a young woman from Leyte who secretly meets her lover in the town plaza—unaware that their families have other plans. The narrative unfolds through lively movement and ends with an unexpected twist.
Completing the lineup is “Madal Siwol: Walang Hanggang Pag-ibig,” a tragic love story rooted in T’boli tradition. The ritual dance recounts the tale of lovers S’lel and La Muhin, whose bond is tested when S’lel is forced to marry a datu. In a heartbreaking final act, La Muhin offers his heart as a symbol of eternal love. The mythical dance is brought to life by the Helobung Community Dance Troupe Inc.
Bringing Philippine Arts Closer to Audiences
Through CCP Channel, audiences can access some of the finest Philippine productions—from award-winning films to traditional performances—anytime, anywhere.
Subscriptions are available for Php 99 per month or Php 599 annually. For more information, visit ccpchannel.culturalcenter.gov.ph.
Stay updated on CCP events, workshops, and productions by following the Cultural Center of the Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, or visit https://culturalcenter.gov.ph.
