The Beginnings of Cebuano Rock Music | Lorenzo "Insoy" Niñal | TEDxUniversityofSanCarlos

Repost: "How do you start a new genre of music? When you have no directo benchmarks to follow, where do you begin? Insoy shares his journey as he tells us how he started what is known today as BisRock and BisPop along with a surprise that just shocked the audience."

"Insoymada isn’t the daily bread, but he can breathe life into words. A columnist and songwriter, his passion lies in the dialect, bending it in all its forms; sa balak, sa suwat, sa kanta. Insoy is also one of the brains and hands behind Vispop, and sings for Missing Filemon."

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The Undying Dream of Pangarap music video

   I did not expect that I would shoot another music video last year. After Chillax, I promised myself not to shoot another one if my collaborators are imbecile. But I broke my promise for some unexplained reason. I also cannot refuse Marlon (Licko’One) since he is my friend and for my advocacy of helping independent artists. Pangarap (Dream) is somehow a reminder of my dreams in life. It is like a wakeup call to continue pursuing my dreams.

   It was timely knowing the fact that I felt down last December. I did not have the drive to do creative things last year. After the activities during the previous months, I dedicated the month of December for a good rest and contemplation. It was also a detoxification of toxic people that I have socialized.

   I undoubtedly said yes when Marlon asked me to direct his music video. It was fast. I did not pause and think of what was the implication of my decision. As I expected, I had difficulty working with them (except for Marlon since it was our second collaboration). Since they do not have background in shooting a music video, I adjusted myself to get along with them. It was pain in the ass especially Cynille Kaye (co-singer) and Michael Pagco (the videographer). They did not have the sense of professionalism that I imagined.

   Again, we did not have the hi-tech equipment to fully materialize my concept. I just did the same old trick of improvisation. I was expecting that Michael would provide the necessary equipment because he volunteered himself and made a promise during our meeting. But he broke his promise and I end up being the main Cinematographer. Thanks to Dado’s initiative that he became my instant Production Manager during the shoot.

   I did the magic trick to compensate the lapses. I would not let the music video to be a wreck. I stick to the original concept in which I incorporated ordinary people to give hope that dreams do come true. I want to give the audience the feeling of encouragement to continue pursuing their dreams no matter what status they are in life. I also put some element of Marlon’s dreams and my interpretation of it.

   Making the music video was a therapy. It was like finding myself in the midst of uncertainty. I am still thankful even though the shoot did not have the spectacular equipment or the ideal crew. The limited resources are not hindrance for creativity. Just like what I said in my previous blog posts, making a music video is my experimentation of concepts. It is a perfect moment to play ideas.

   The experience of making it served as hope to continue dreaming and take concrete actions out of it. It is epiphany as the poet claims. It is deus ex machina as a Greek tragedy proclaim. Whatever would it be I am fortunate I to have it. I am thankful to the Supreme Being for giving the experience of dreaming again.

Please watch the music video below:

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Pangarap teaser

Pangarap teaser 2

by Licko'One feat. Cynille Kaye

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Chillax and the irony of its title

   Chillax - a colloquial term for relax. It’s a combination of the words – chill and relax, which has the same meaning. This term is the new song of AXL GRICO and Licko’One. As you listen to the song, it has this relax, sexy, hypnotic and stoned vibe. It best played especially in the summer season. 

   AXL asked my help to direct their music video. It’s our second collaboration and I want it to be different. I want to take this video into the next level. Just like before, we had a series of meetings to discuss the concept and to prepare for the production requirements. John the owner of Pigshot clothing became the producer of the video. It is also our first meeting with Licko’One and I interviewed him in order for me to know his qualities as a rap artist. Fortunately, he was cooperative and contributed his share in the video. Since I came up with the sexy-hypnotic concept, I casted models to be featured in it. The two rappers liked the idea and they recommended models to be featured in the video. Then we started to prepare its production requirements.

   It’s ironic how I am not chillax before the shoot. I am a bit stress in finding the right models, the location and the preparation for the right production requirements. Since they do not have exposure in film/music video production, I made adjustment in order to relate to them. I modified its concept due to budgetary constraint and the “limited time of preparing it”. It’s a bit hard for me in the sense that they do not know what they were doing. I guided them so that it would not be disastrous during the shooting day. Moreover, I adjusted my hectic schedule and canceled my other appointments just to be sure the video will be shot in the planned schedule. 

   Despite all the challenges that we encountered, the music video was still shot in the intended dates. Although the concept that I have envisioned was not 100% materialized, I am still thankful that it went well. I shared to AXL my sentiments about the music video. I said to him that next time you want me to direct your music video you should prepare enough time and budget for it. He should not make rush decisions about it. 

   I hope they learned something from our shoot. I hope they realize that it’s not enough to have many followers or views in Youtube. I hope they realize that producing a quality artwork is not as easy as counting 1, 2, 3. I hope that the “fame” they experience would not consume them and forget other important things in life. 

   Through this music video I appreciate the essence of time. The value of right timing is really important if I want to be successful. That’s why I decided to shoot my third short film next year. I would not rush it and make the same mistakes just what my second film experienced. I will prepare enough budgets, collaborate with the right artists and make the right plan for the production requirements.

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ArtVid 4: Ronald Tamfalan

Ronald Tamfalan paints his thoughts in the 4th series of ArtVid

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ArtVid 3: Caera & Edward

Caera Grace Lastimosa Agduma and Edward James Perez Sinforoso express the other side of their creativity in the 3rd series of ArtVid.

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VJ E supports local artists in SOCSKSARGEN

“I support the local artists here in SOCSKSARGEN,” says Elaine

   “I support the local artists here in SOCSKSARGEN,” says Elaine. She is one of the few people in Region XII who has genuine support for local artists. Her vision to uplift the music scene in SOCSKSARGEN is making slowly but surely progress. She is a superwoman who likes to multi-tasks for the love of her show and for the talented musicians that mostly benefited from it.

   I conducted an informal interview in their small yet very productive studio in Brigada News Station. While I’m in the studio, I got the chance to witness the workflow of their daily show. As an observer, I was really amazed on how she handles the demand of her work. It’s like she’s working in a busy fast food restaurant that serves news and entertainment. She does multi-tasking to run their show (except the technical side). Can you imagine if you are in her shoes? 

   It was Saturday when I interviewed her. She hosts for her Saturday Music countdown and if there’s a chance to have a break, she answers my questions. When the moment came to have a chat, I saw in her the burning passion. This kind of trait is rare nowadays. Since many have become busy finding security rather than their purpose in life. I admire her honesty and upbeat personality. She never hesitates to answer my questions. I’m thankful that she bestows her trust to me knowing the fact that we only just met (in person) in this interview. 

   Cherry Elaine Ong Sormillo or popularly known as VJ E was a graduate of AB Mass Communication major in Broadcasting at the Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU). She started as a DJ for Love radio (both in GenSan and Koronadal city) before she landed in Brigada station. 

   She experienced all kinds of work in the station. She became radio DJ/host, she experience being an anchorwoman; she also work in the marketing department and she even endorse some of the products of the station. She describes her career in the station as on and off status. But later on she finally committed herself to be the VJ of one of the top rated show of the station – The Brigada Music Videos (BMV). She was contacted to be the replacement of VJ Melody in the show. Because that time, VJ Melody focuses in her law school. This opportunity cemented her career as a promising VJ. 

   “When I accepted this job, I totally changed the programming of the show,” recounts Elaine. She changed the format of show to have a fresh look for the viewers. She acquired inspiration from MTV and MYX with a localized twist. She emphasizes the importance of the local artists. She includes their songs and music videos in the show. 

“It’s an easy for me to host in this kind of show because I’m into music,” says Elaine.

   “It’s an easy for me to host in this kind of show because I’m into music,” says Elaine. Her natural love for it makes her memorable in the minds of her viewers. That’s why she makes sure that all demographics could relate to the songs/videos in their playlists.

   She is a “one man army” of her show. “I’m the Director, Writer, Host, and Production Staff of my own show,” Elaine says. “Brigada station is not ABS-CBN that has resources to hire for additional personnel. We only just starting and I’m thankful that I have total creative control of my show.”

   In this kind of job, stress is normal. That’s why her stress reliever would be going out to see the beach or food to ease her (not in a depressing way). In her busy schedule, she finds time for her family and closest friends. 

   Elaine somehow becomes a local celebrity because of the influence of her show. “For me it’s a bit weird when someone recognizes you as VJ E,” says Elaine. “For example, when I was walking in the area of St. Elizabeth Hospital, someone shouted ‘VJ E!’.” 

   Most of the bashers/haters that she encounters in her show are criticizing her looks than her hosting skill. “Since we do not have avid sponsors, I only wear simple outfits. But I do not mind it because I more into my hosting responsibility than taking time wearing flamboyant dress.” 

“In this industry, it is not surprising that the people you encounter or work with shows different façade. I learn to be tough and to be not affected in them. I just do my job well and never let my guard down.”

   When she becomes a VJ, she has learned so many things. “Before I don’t have patience,” tells Ellaine. “Because of my show, I learn to have it. I also learn to balance things when I become a VJ.” She also learns to assess people in her field. “In this industry, it is not surprising that the people you encounter or work with shows different façade. I learn to be tough and to be not affected in them. I just do my job well and never let my guard down.”

   “I want the local artists to be known. I want them to have the chance or the opportunity to show their talent,” Elaine asserts.

   “It’s unfortunate that there’s no enough support for our local artist. It’s hard to be alone in this kind of advocacy. But I have still hope and that’s why I exert more effort to promote them thru Brigada Music Video and Tunog Local.” She wants Tunog Local to be more localized. She wants to promote it in the barangays and municipalities. “I want the local artists to be known. I want them to have the chance or the opportunity to show their talent,” Elaine asserts. Thru her show many artists are inspired to make their songs and music videos. Her show becomes an avenue to showcase it. 

"But the most important thing is that I am paid for my passion.” 

   “What’s the good thing about being a VJ is the free stuff,” says Elaine. “I love the free gifts, the free food and many people would like to befriend me. But the most important thing is that I am paid for my passion.” She doesn’t settle for less. She really pushes the limit and always thinks outside the box. Time will tell that her vision will become reality; that all her efforts will have awesome returns. 

“Aim high, shoot low,” as she declares.

   “Aim high, shoot low,” as she declares. “I want to uplift the local music scene thru my show,” Elaine confesses. “I want to promote the “tulungan system” where everybody collaborates for the same goal.”

originally posted in Yadu Karu's Blog

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MSU EdTech Film festival: As one of the strategies for learning

Prof. Precy Regalado and her students during the 3rd MSU EdTech Film Festival

photo by Farrah Princess Restuaro

   Film is not only use as a medium for artistic expression and social action. The educators also use it as a medium for instruction. The College of Education in Mindanao State University-GenSan has this subject called Educational Technology (1 & 2). The class of Prof. Precy Regalado and Prof. Diane Mae Ulanday has this unique approach in dealing this subject. They use film as one of the learning tools for their students. 

   Three years ago, Prof. Regalado conceptualized the MSU EdTech film festival to showcase the creative outputs of her students. In its third year, the festival has its theme called “A tapestry of SOCSKSARGEN’s culture and beliefs”. Its objectives are to develop the talents and skills of students in filmmaking; and to promote the cultural values and beliefs of tri students in MSU. “The film activities that we have conducted will make my students globally competitive educators in the future,” Prof. Regalado says. The festival was held last March 15, 2015 at SM GenSan Trade Hall 2. As expected, it was successful and produced promising filmmakers in Region XII. 

   “This course focuses on the development of earning packages by utilizing the latest information and communications technologies in their design, production, and use in the instruction setting. It will expose the students to the multimedia applications in teaching and to alternative systems by making use of the MOLE, Computer-Based Instruction, online learning activities, Treasure Hunts and Web Quests, and the Intel Teach to the future pre-service curriculum as avenues for both teaching and learning.” 

   The festival has two categories – the short film category and short documentary. Nasser, a story of a lad who is torn between his education and familial obligation, won the coveted Best Film in short film category. While Abyan (Companion) won the Best Short Documentary not only in EdTech Film Festival but also in the 14th Kabantugan Awards. Chiriath Jearim Fernandez, the Director of Nasser and Farrah Princess Restauro, the Director of Abyan, are not timid to share their experiences in filming their first short films.

Chiriath, the Director of Nasser, shares his experience in filmmaking.

   The stories of both films were conceptualized during their brainstorming session with their group mates. “In our meeting we share stories. At first we have a story and presented it to Maam Diane, our consultant and Adviser, but she rejected it because it was a common one,” says Chiriath. “We meet again and think of a better story. Until one of my classmates shared about the story of his brother who had experience training in MILF camp. Maam Diane likes it and we pursue the story.” 

   “We have also brainstorming session with my group,” says Farrah. “We have a series of meeting to come up with the best story for our documentary. Until one of our classmates shared about his brother-in-law. We presented it to Maam Precy and she approved it.” 

   Just like other groups in their class, they have also contributed some amount to materialize the project. They have also asked for solicitations and sponsors to cover expenses. In the case of Chiriath, Barangay Pananag in Maasim Sarangani Province supported their project. Since most of their scenes were shot there, the barangay and its people extends their help to their group and provided logistical support. On the other hand, Farrah’s team has also received support from the people that they have collaborated. Through their participation and guidance they are able to make their documentary. 

   Nasser’s theme becomes apt in today’s peace process condition. The Mamasapano incident became their motivation to pursue their film project. “In our film, we want to share that war is not the solution to attain peace. As what Nasser, the protagonist of the film says – ‘War is not the solution to achieve peace, it’s better to be educated,’” Chiriath points out. 

   “One of our unforgettable experiences while filming Nasser was when the actor mistakenly identified as an army because he’s wearing a camouflage. We were really nervous that time because we are in the territory of the MILF. But we are thankful that the brother of my classmate was there to explain our purpose in the area,” Chiriath recounts.

Farrah, the Director of Abyan, entrusted her faith in God to finish his first short film.

   In the case of Abyan, faith is their reason why they make their documentary. “The cultural belief in superstition is embedded deeply into our culture that it’s difficult to unravel,” says Farrah. “Before we conduct our interview, we start with a prayer.” During the shoot, they felt the presence of the Abyan. For example, their DLSR camera would shut down for no particular reason. There’s one instance that their camera would easily overheat. Faith in God serves as their protection in making their project. “It needs faith to believe,” Farrah declares. 

   In shooting their first film, they have learned lessons that they would never forget. “We learn to be patient, to have perseverance, to give trust to each other and most especially to have faith in God. We never surrender despite the challenges we have encountered,” recounts Farrah. 

   “Through making our short film, we learned to listen to the ideas of our group mates. We learned that unity is the best option we have to make if we want to succeed in this project,” says Chiriath. 

   Their efforts were paid off when they won the top awards. Both of them did not expect the decision of the juries of the film festival. 

   “I’m not expecting that we’re going to win,” says Chiriath. “It’s an unexpected moment.” 

   “We did not expect that we would get the Best short documentary award,” says Farrah. “We are thankful that most of the audience during the event are happy and said that our film is unique.” 

   I admire their courage in pursuing their stories for their films. In the case of Nasser, their short film is one of the proactive ways in advocating peace in Mindanao. In the case of Abyan, I salute them for being brave in pursuing the story despite the supernatural incidents they have encountered. 

   “In spite of harsh criticisms you get, stand what you believe is right,” says Chiriath. “Share stories that have impact to the lives of the viewers.” 

   “We should give our best,” Farrah says. “We should never surrender in the challenges we encounter. We should have faith in Him.”

PRODUCTION TEAM of Nasser 

DIRECTOR: Chiriath Jearim Fernandez

ASST.DIRECTOR: Sheraina Usop

SCRIPTWRITERS: Chiriath Jearim Fernandez, Sheraina Usop, Avalyla Pagadatan and Armel Ian Fernandez

TRANSLATORS: Sheraina Usop, Rowaiza taman and Abdurrahem Maton

LOCATION MANAGER: Sittie Joraina Ramirez

CAMERA MAN: Josephine Tejada

Technical Asst.Jana Zaragoza

EDITOR: Josephine Tejada

Creative consultant: Prof.Diane Mae Ulanday

DIRECTOR: Chiriath Jearim Fernandez

ASST.DIRECTOR: Sheraina Usop

SCRIPTWRITERS: Chiriath Jearim Fernandez, Sheraina Usop, Avalyla Pagadatan and Armel Ian Fernandez

TRANSLATORS: Sheraina Usop, Rowaiza taman and Abdurrahem Maton

LOCATION MANAGER: Sittie Joraina Ramirez

CAMERA MAN: Josephine Tejada

Technical Asst.Jana Zaragoza

EDITOR: Josephine Tejada

Creative consultant: Prof. Diane Mae Ulanday

Production Staff

Name	Position
Marjorie Barrientos	Leader/ Technical Director
Farrah Princess Restauro	Director
Joderic Lebrita	Assistant-Director
Reena Mae Lustan	Director of Photography
Earl Precious Gem Neri	Asst. Director of Photography
Fetche Mae Benlot	Production Manager\ Asst. Art Director
Ria Bayato	Art Director
Queenie Aringa	Assistant Art Director
Shiny Osorio	Location Director
Shirly Joy Kiyugan	Assistant Location Director/ Secretary
Justine Deramon	Make-up Artist
Excel Grace Gamolo	Make-up Artist/ Food Committee
Jade Duran	Make-up Artist
Ariane Tambukong	Make-up Artist
Almira Yusop	Wardrobe/ Food Committee
Prexy Humang-it	Wardrobe
Kimverly Pabicon	Wardrobe/ Treasurer
Julie Ann Babao	Food Committee
Mary Barbie Ronulo	Food Committee
Belinda Domingo	Script Writer
Esther Pujol	Food Committee

originally posted in Yadu Karu's Blog 

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ArtVid 2: Axl Grico

ArtVid is a series of experimental short videos that showcases the different artists in SOCSKSARGEN. In the second series, Axl Grico bares his identity as a young rap artist in GenSan.

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Sekreto: The Secret Behind the Music Video

The concept 

   Making music video helps widen my horizon as a filmmaker. ‘Sekreto’, the second music video that I directed aids me in experimentation of different techniques. My passion and their enthusiasm push me to be more creative in conceptualizing it. 

   ‘Sekreto’ is quite different from ‘Pegasus’ music video in many ways. The first one which is ‘Pegasus’ shows more symbolism compare to ‘Sekreto’. Besides the lyrics, genre and its message is not the same. ‘Pegasus’ is more into social commentary while ‘Sekreto’ deals with the internal struggle of a person. Moreover, the first one has a dark humor element embedded on its lyrics while the latter has this melodramic atmosphere that can be easily comprehend by a typical audience. 

   The second music video helps me experiment of the “masa” taste in terms of entertainment. If you notice, ‘Sekreto’ has a simple storyline that can be easily grasped by the broad audience. ‘Sekreto’ is more of a teenage buffer kind of music video that many youngsters today can relate to. 

   Of course, I based its concept to the story of Jamcelle Alorro (the actor) and Jodi Anne Gaquit (the actress) and their unusual relationship as friends. The song was written primarily for Jodi on her 18th birthday (November 5). Jamcelle asked Axl Grico to write a song that is based on their story. The song is intended to be a surprise to Jodi. But since I want the two of them to be the actors for the music video, Jamcelle was forced to admit his plan to Jodi.

Meeting Axl Grico and the gang 

   Axl Grico is quite famous in his own right. ‘Sekreto’ is his third song that has a music video. The first two music videos (and the other video that he acted on it) were all directed by Ariel Lalisan. Ariel was supposed to be directing ‘Sekreto’. Since he is busy on his work and other related activities, Axl asked me thru Facebook if I am willing to direct it. At first, I was hesitant because I did not know him well and I want him to tell Ariel that he wants me to direct the music video. I am thankful that Ariel is supportive to Axl and look forward to see it. 

   When Axl and I got the chance to meet in person, I admit to him that I am different to Ariel. I shared to him that I do not easily make a music video especially if I do not know the artist or if the song is not “cool” for me. I also said to him that it takes days to shoot a music video (case to case basis). I explained to him that there is Pre-production, Production and Post-production stage. Furthermore, I explained to him that I screened actors and rehearse them so that it could not be a burden during the shoot. I also asked him if his lyrics and its music/beat are original. In short, I told him that my background is in filmmaking, and not the typical videography shooting. When he absorbed all of this information and experienced shooting with me, he was shocked because he did not expect that I would be that meticulous in terms of output. Thanks to his interest in music that he still pursue it. 

   Axl collaborated with Joycel Tubao, a young model and singer whom he met in Brigada (TV) Station. Though Joycel has some attitude problem (in terms of professionalism), I am still thankful that the video was finished. On the other hand, I incorporate the talent of Tatz because I can see his potential as a Rap artist. I discovered him when I was a judge in their class presentation. While Raev Yap, the Cinematographer for ‘Sekreto’, is not really into videography. He is the son of Steven Rae Banares (a.k.a Batang Polomolok) and a photographer. He devoted his self to this project because he wants to try and experiment with it. 

The shooting 

   I simplify the production requirement needed for the video. Since it has a limited budget and resources, I try to be more resourceful and creative. We shot it for only two days in their neighborhood. As I have expected, not all of the sequences I conceptualized put into reality. That’s why I device a plan to cover up its lapses. 

The learning experience 

   “Learning is a continuous process”, as the popular adage says. In every film or music video project that I made, I learn new things that can be used in the upcoming project(s). Collaborating with different artists help me grow as an artist. Furthermore, making a music video is a liberating experience because I got the opportunity to experiment and express my ideas freely. I look forward for the next one.


check the music video (below)

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'Sekreto'

This is the official music video of SEKRETO by Axl Grico feat. Joycel and introducing Tatz. The music video is Directed by G.V. Alfasain. Enjoy!

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Sekreto Music Video Teaser

Here are the teasers for the Music video entitled SEKRETO by Axl Grico feat. Joycel

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Per & Daisy Prenup AVP

Photo by Van Almeria (The Walking Eyes)

Project Title: Per & Daisy Prenup AVP

Created by: G.V. Alfasain 

Production House: The Walking Eyes & Love Metaphor

Engagement Styling: Vina Routel 

Photography: Van Almeria 

Music by: Erh (freesound.org) 

Location: Sarangani Highlands

Couple: Daisy Soler & Per Solhaug 

Date of shoot: September 2, 2014

An experimental video made for the couple.

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Pegasus: The Behind the Scenes Interview

The behind the scene interview 

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Pegasus: The Behind the Scenes

   Making a music video is a dream come true. Collaborating with smart and talented artist like Making Bianca inspires me in many ways. Our busy schedules are not a hindrance to shoot the music video. I am thankful that I collaborated with smart and cool artists who prefer to spend their time creatively for the love of art. 

   I do not expect that my first music video would be as spectacular as what we have seen in MTV. As the resources dictates, I need to be resourceful and creative to have desired output. Luckily, the cast and crew was really good to work with despite some problems arise during the shoot. 

   During the shoot of the video, it is expected that problems may rise. So the challenge is how you will solve it in a creative way. For example, the lead actress was not present during the second day of the shooting. We did not know what motivates her to act that way. Before we separate ways in the first day of shoot, it was clear to all of us that we still have second day shoot and we should come early. With that incident, I prepared my Plan B to cover up the “damage”. 

-Behind the scenes photos of PEGASUS-

   Given that I do not have equipment like DSLR camera, I have concepts and ideas that are worth sharing. As of now, equipment is not my priority. I am more concern on finding the right team to collaborate with. If you have solid, smart, creative, fun and easy to work teammates, for me it’s like winning in a lottery. Camera and other equipment are easy to find if you have money, but a great team is not.

   I am really blessed that J.Leonida was there and lend not only her camera but also her time and skills to be my Cinematographer in the music video. “It is my first time to make a music video”, as she said. She does not have an experience for shooting a video. Throughout the process of making a music video, we are all learning from each other. No overlapping of tasks. We work harmoniously for the anticipated outcome. I am also thankful that the Political Science students of MSU-GenSan were really supportive of Making Bianca. To show their support, most of them starred in the music video. 

Meeting the Band

   I first met Andrew Yatar and Arjay Lim (of Making Bianca) at the Mindanao State University (GenSan) campus. Harlem Jude Ferolino (The Voice of the Youth-GenSan) and Ronnie Barrientos (GenSan Youth Network) introduced me to them. I get interested of primarily because I am motivated to do a music video and finding the right artist to be featured in it. It is a good thing that the band has original compositions that have great lyrics. Since they are Political Science students, some of their songs reflect the social flaws of the Philippine society. Their themes and subjects really inspire me to pursue directing their video. 

   Before we shoot the video, I first consulted them about the concept. I interviewed them and asked some questions related to their band and their songs. As a director, I make a point that I consulted the artist what he/she would like to incorporate in the video. After that, I conceptualize and interpret it visually to the have desired output. I am honored that they loved the concept. 

The Lesson

   I have learned a lot from shooting this video. I do not spend my time and energy to those wannabes whose job is to pretend that they are passionate about their craft. Whether photography, modeling or any other art medium, a true artist transcends despite all the odds. He/she is not concerned whether he/she gets paid or become famous after the shoot. In short, passion speaks for itself.

The Video

   Here's the music video that we have created. I hope that you will enjoy it and reflect on its message. 

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Jamir (Behind the scenes)

Day1 (April 7, 2014) - Datu Abdullah Tondog Elementary School 
photo by Rachel Hernandez

It’s a fulfillment that I made my second film entitled Jamir. The bad experience that I have encountered in my first short film motivates me to shoot it. The lessons that I gained from it helps me do this film better. 

Jamir is a story of a boy who is torn between his dreams and his “responsibility”. Jamir represents young Muslims in Mindanao that choose school over being a rebel. The story is based on real events happened in 70s and 80s. 

Jamir is supposed to be my fist short film. That time, I was busy that I cannot concentrate writing it properly. The script went a lot of revisions (under the supervision of Teng Mangansakan). So I decided to rest it for a while and pursue Bé. 

The original (time) setting of the film is in the late 70s. Direk Teng advises me that it would be better if the setting is in the late 90s. He said that it would be difficult for me to pursue the late 70s setting because of its demand in production materials. 

I am really thankful that Andrei Karoly Hernandez (Amaya Han) and Meika Vieve Catog (Lady M Chua) extend their support for this film project. When I offer them the role as my Assistant Director and Cinematographer, they eagerly say yes. I felt blessed because I collaborated with my filmmaker friends. I cannot help but compare them to my previous crew because both of them were really good. I have learned so much from them in filmmaking. 

We shot Jamir only for two days. Unlike my first film, the shoot was fast yet suave. My staff and crew were quick, smart and practical in terms of decision making. Furthermore, Jamir was special because my family was involved in the filmmaking process. My Ate was the Producer of the film. My parents help cook the food for the staff and crew. My siblings also act as Production Assistants. And my Uncle and Aunt were actors in the film. 

We entirely shot the film in our place – in Baluntay Alabel, Sarangani Province. The school scene was shot in Datu Abdullah Tondog Elementary School (formerly Baluntay Elementary School). My sister and I asked permission to the school principal before we shoot the film. That time it was end of the school year, so most of the students were all in vacation. Luckily, there were some Grade VI students who were still present because of their school requirements. 

Though there were problems during post production stage, I still manage to fix it smoothly. Problems and challenges are all part in filmmaking. That’s why I make contingency plan to fix it.

Whether Jamir will win in the film festivals or not, I’m still happy and lucky that I was able to shoot this film project. I hope this film will spark discussion on what really happened on the Peace Agreement between the Philippine government and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). I hope it will help the audience to be critical thinkers in the current peace agreement between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). I do not mean to be a killjoy here but let just hope that this is not another false agreement engineered by the Philippine government and other parties involve in the peace accord.

STAFF & CREW OF 'JAMIR'

Written & Directed By – G.V. Alfasain 

Producer – Vanessa Alfasain 

Assistant Director – Amaya Han 

Directors of Photography – Lady M Chua & Amaya Han 

2nd Camera Operator – Ariel Lalisan 

Film Editor - Amaya Han

Sound Recordist – Ariel Lalisan & Jason Alfasain 

Production Designers – G.V. Alfasain & Vanessa Alfasain 

Production Assistants – Cristy Laila Alfasain, 

                            Jason Alfasain, 

                           Rashid Yusop 

                          Nash Layson 

CAST

Michael Josh Angelo Ramos as Jamir 

Nur Aida Taha as Aya (mother) 

Orlando Layamon as Abdullah 

Annabel Distor as Teacher 

Classmates 

Vincent Sardido as Ryan 

Aladin Taha as Leonard 

Moasar Amell as Rashid 

Cherry Mae Ulgasan 

Fatima Ingkong 

Ma. Ilaica Albarida 

Julayla Pontuan 

Jessie Mae Padivas

Jenny Alomia 

Mariton Cueme 

Marzella Mae Radin 

Norhima Tondog 

Phil Patrick Largadas 

Tomy Yusop as father of Rashid

plese like Jamir Facebook page

end of part 1

UPDATE: 'Jamir' is in "coma". It needs rest. (08-19-14)

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