By Mikee Natinga Norico

A moment of pride for CPU as the Communication Circle, MIDAS, and partner organizations join forces with directors Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Jeroui Richard Salvadico at the special screening of Tumandok.

In collaboration with CPU-MIDAS and several other organizations, the CPU Communication Circle successfully organized a special screening of Tumandok, the 2024 Cinemalaya Best Full-Length Film, at Central Philippine University on December 14, 2024. Held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, the event featured a homecoming for Centralian directors Ms. Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Mr. Richard Jeroui Salvadico, who participated in an open forum session after the screening. The event brought immense pride to the CPU community, as the two filmmakers—both alumni of the university—showcased their critically acclaimed work, which highlights the story of the Tumandok people.

Tumandok received the Best Full-Length Film distinction at the 2024 Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. The film also earned the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC) Jury Award, as well as accolades for Best Screenplay, Best Original Score, and Best Supporting Actor for Felipe Ganancial. Directed by CPU alumni Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay and Jeroui Richard Salvadico, graduates of the BA in Communication and BA in Digital Media and Interactive Arts programs, the film features an all-Ati cast and poignantly depicts the struggles of the Ati community to reclaim their ancestral land.

The CPU Communication Circle and MIDAS spearheaded the event, with support from co-presenters such as the CPU Cultural Affairs Office (CAO) and Bangkaw Anahaw, as well as partner organizations including the English Language Society, CPU Female Society, CPU Psychological Society, Koalisyon, and CPU Biological Society. Each group played a vital role in ensuring the event’s success, managing logistics, promotions, and facilitation.

Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs; and Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, were also present, underscoring the significance of the occasion within the CPU community.

Tickets for the exclusive screening were priced at ₱150, and students had the option to purchase them through their instructors or directly via the CPU Communication Circle or MIDAS Facebook pages. Proceeds from the screening were allocated to support the Ati community, reflecting CPU’s ongoing commitment to advocacy and cultural appreciation.

In an interview, Ms. Pure Grace Melody D. Jotiz, President of the CPU Communication Circle, shared that the inspiration behind the event stemmed from the heartfelt homecoming of the directors, who expressed their desire to give back to their alma mater. “This event underscores the value of community, collaboration, and the pride we all share in being part of the CPU family,” she emphasized.

The screening drew a diverse audience, including students from the College of Arts and Sciences who attended as part of their final exam requirements, as well as walk-in attendees. Bangkaw Anahaw led the creative aspects of the event, while other organizations contributed to logistics, promotions, and the overall flow of activities.

“By bringing Tumandok back to CPU, we celebrated not only the directors’ achievements but also the potential of independent cinema to spark awareness and social change,” Jotiz added. The film underscored the struggles and culture of the Ati community, urging viewers to reflect on issues facing indigenous peoples.

The event’s success aligns with CPU’s mission to promote cultural appreciation and showcase the talents of its alumni. Looking ahead, Jotiz mentioned future collaborations, including the 2025 Sigrab Film Festival, where the directors are set to serve as judges once again.

The triumph of Tumandok at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival is a testament to the exceptional talent nurtured at CPU. The screening served as an inspiration for current and future students to create meaningful work, advocate for marginalized communities, and use storytelling as a tool for empathy and change.

To learn more about CPU Communication Circle and CPU MIDAS, visit their official Facebook pages:

• CPU Communication Circle
• CPU MIDAS