Cinemalaya film ‘Ganggang’ to be screened
The gripping independent feature “Ganggang,” an official entry to the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival 2026, will be screened at the Far Eastern University Main Auditorium on October 20.
Students will get an opportunity to watch the film next Tuesday, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm, as the Department of Communication hosts a special screening of “Ganggang,” which will be followed by a talkback session with director JL Burgos.
“Ganggang,” set against the lush yet troubled backdrop of rural Bulacan, weaves a narrative through the innocent eyes of three young boys: Mel, a newcomer from the city; Ilay, a child of desaparecidos (the disappeared); and Tenten, the son of a farmer-activist.
Brought together by their quest to find the ultimate fighting spider to take down Anton, the school bully, the boys form an unlikely alliance. Yet, as their search deepens, they find that their bond, and their lives, face far greater challenges than schoolyard rivalry.
The film features standout performances from child actors Raine Dela Cruz, Kenneth “Butchoy” Vincent Mendoza, Don Rishmond Cerbito, and Prince España.
The young actors are supported by acclaimed actress Elora Españo, Hershey Neri, Brian Arda, Don Melvin Boongaling, Katrish Aristoki, Pau Benitez, Anton Nolasco, Francis Mata, Tabs Sumulong, Manuel Genabe, Pio Raphael Benedicto, Jers Guiwa, Raphael Del Prado, Jhaniel Pellado, Rencel Bago, Gene Trillana, Dave Ignacio, Wesley “Budoy” San Sebastian, Marian Lavado, April Obnamia, and Alicia Bea Obligado.
Burgos also got ample support from executive producer and editor Mona Nieva, associate producers Nessa S. Valdellon, Atty. Tony La Viña, E&H Productions, line producer Juvz Tesalona, cinematographer Mac Cosico, production designer Jevie Conde Cabiling, musical scorer RJ Mabilin, sound designers Drew Milallos and Anna de Dios, and assistant director Abdel Langit.
For Burgos, whose previous acclaimed documentary “Alipato at Muog” bagged multiple awards at the Cinemalaya Film Festival XX, FAMAS 2025, and Gawad Urian 2025, “Ganggang” is a continuation of a lifelong commitment to human rights advocacy through visual storytelling.
In his director’s statement, Burgos noted that the film aims to humanize statistics, transforming the nameless victims of rural human rights abuses into living, breathing narratives. Rather than reducing conflict to news headlines, “Ganggang” explores why ordinary people continue to take a stand, speak out, and resist intimidation, even when faced with overwhelming power.
“The Department of Communication is excited to host this special. More than a film viewing, this is an opportunity to reflect on how stories can shape our perspectives, foster empathy, and encourage social awareness,” said Dr. Ma. Monica Lourdes L. Ollet, Department of Communication chairperon. “May this film challenge us to see beyond entertainment and better understand the realities, struggles, and aspirations of others, and take action in our communities.”
“Ganggang,” one of Cinemalaya’s most compelling indie dramas of the year, opens a deeper look into the realities of growing up under the shadow of social conflict.
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