By Karren Jay G. Asgar

The production team behind “Pag-ani sang Dugo” celebrates their success at the One Degree Better: A Climate Consciousness Short Film Festival, a project of DENR-VI, securing the 1st runner-up spot and Best in Cinematography Award during the awarding ceremony on November 26, 2024, at Robinson’s Place Pavia. Photo courtesy of DENR-VI.

A student film from Central Philippine University has earned recognitions at the recently concluded ‘One Degree Better: A Climate Consciousness Short Film Festival,’ hosted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) VI during the awarding ceremony on November 26, 2024, at Robinson’s Place Pavia. The film entitled “Pag-ani sang Dugo” (Harvesting of Blood) secured the title of 1st Runner-Up and also bagged the Best in Cinematography Award, out of six (6) participating universities.

The film, directed by Pete Marwin Tristeza and Waren Manlangit, follows the story of Victoria (played by Iris Faye Fuerza), a strong-willed college student from the bourgeoning town of Bugana, as she ventures into her mother’s beloved Sinikway, a secluded farming village, to investigate the reasons behind their food’s foul taste. In an act of defiance against her father Norman, a stern government employee played by Jian Wayne Rabia, Victoria is accompanied by Sinikway-local Dang-Dang (Ezra Nhiez Balane), as she uncovers more than she was prepared to find out, including a tense confrontation with a well-beloved figure played by Kirsten Lorraine Orleans.

Pete Marwin Tristeza, one of the film’s directors, shared that despite logistical challenges and sleepless nights, the crew and community’s support made the effort worthwhile. “It really takes a community to make films. The contribution and the support of the people around you show in the final product. It’s evident that the cooperation that we receive from the school and respective student councils has detrimental to the success of the piece,” he said in an online interview.

The film is inspired by the idea of a place where one’s values are not only recognized but deeply validated. The filmmakers convey a strong conviction that the causes of climate change extend beyond natural processes; humanity plays a significant role as the authors of this crisis. The neglect of ecosystems and the exploitation of limited resources underscore the urgent need for collective accountability and action. Being in such a place—where personal values align with a larger purpose—is described as a surreal and empowering experience. The film captures this intersection, weaving personal conviction with a universal call to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

When asked how it feels winning in such competition, he said, “I know that this still a competition, we carry the name of the school, the success of the school is ours, our success of us is part of the school. It’s an honor to direct this film I am truly grateful for the trust of production team. This all would not be carried out without the untiring power and faith of Mrs. Crista Sianson-Huyong.”

He recalled that one of the core memories from the production of the short film was staying up until 4 a.m. to continue shooting, only to realize afterward that the production vehicle had completely lost its battery power. With no other option, they had to push the vehicle through the woods at dawn.

“During the pre-production was the biggest hurdle. Continues events of the school and the prelim, with and impeding U-Day in the corner was also a factor, considering we are not excuse in our classes. It made us unable to make plans early and impacted the production workflow. The weather was also a big factor for us to not shoot the film on schedule. It would not fit the story and intended treatment,” Tristeza said.

He shared that the Centralian community has had a significant influence on their approach to filmmaking. The original team was formed from the roster of Sigrab directors and crew, and throughout the production, the EXCEL values were consistently applied in various aspects of the film process. From the start of every shoot or editing session, a prayer was always present, setting the tone for the work ahead. It fostered a state of flow, enabling them to work together harmoniously and with focus.

When asked if how did participating in such competition impact their growth as filmmakers, he answered, “It’s a great venue not only for me, an art student. It is also a gateway for other people not given the privilege to try filmmaking. Film production is expensive and not that accessible with average students. They can be familiar with the equipment meant for production. Yes, a phone can do a lot these days but as filmmaker you are not supposed to be restricted with your creativity. Knowing the workflow and intended gear for the shot required is useful. They can later apply this in making their own shorts, either it be for the next film project or a school requirement.”

“Get yourself out there. Don’t only consume, Create. Be grounded and chase no crowd. Show to tell, not just be there for show,” Tristeza’s advice to Centralians or aspiring filmmakers who are thinking about entering such competitions

Pag-ani sang Dugo is inspired by themes of deep, underlying corruption, the decimation of farmlands in the midst of growing economic and climate turmoil, and the rift between the helpless, politically engaged youth and the greed of those in power.

The success of this Centralian film would not have been possible without the collaboration of key individuals, including: