Despite limited filmmaking experience and resources, local artists from Hingyon, Ifugao, are making waves on social media with the release of their first-ever locally produced film, ‘The Revelation: A’apon Ina.’
This groundbreaking film explores the struggles of young love and marriage, family life, poverty, and other societal issues that deeply resonate with its audience.
The premiere held on December 30, 2024, at the Municipal Gymnasium in Bitu, Hingyon, Ifugao, received overwhelming support from the local community and moviegoers across the province.
The next film viewing is set on January18, 2025 at Don Bosco High School Inc. Gymnasium in Poblacion South, Lagawe, Ifugao.
A Collaborative Effort
Producer Nikeson G. Kino-ol, founder of the Hingyon TV Facebook page, revealed plans to bring the film to a wider audience by organizing screenings in other municipalities. In addition to producing, Kino-ol served as the film’s videographer and editor.
Kino-ol shared that the film was a collaborative effort initiated by Cab-uy Creatives of Batch 2022, in partnership with the Association for Working Indigenous Hingyon Youth and iHingyon TV.
The Local Government Unit of Hingyon also played a vital role in supporting the project.
“We made the most of what we had. The film was created and successfully launched because of our unity and camaraderie,” Kino-ol reflected.
Challenges And Triumphs
As first-time filmmakers, the team faced significant challenges during production. Originally planned to finish the film in two months, the project took two and a half years due to financial constraints, conflicting schedules, and limited equipment.
Kino-ol shared that there were times they thought they couldn’t finish the film, but through perseverance and passion, they made it happen.
During the premiere, the team was overwhelmed by the unexpected support from the community and their followers.
Kino-ol expressed feeling surreal and deeply grateful for all the encouragement and support received from the community and supporters.
Powerful Performances and Lessons Learned
Directed by Hanna Karreah Bumilac and Johnkinse Bango, the film serves as a powerful starting point for the team’s mission to address important societal issues.
Bumilac expressed hope that the film would spark dialogue and solutions for these challenges.
The cast members also shared their experiences during production.
“This film completely pulled me out of my comfort zone, but the memories, the experience and the learnings I got as one of the actors are valuable and memorable,” shared Khayla Bumilac who played the role of a mother.
She added that the film’s completion was a testament to their perseverance, sacrifices, and unity.
Shadrach Gatik, one of the lead actors, recalled his struggles and eventual triumph.
“Nung una po, talagang nahihirapan po ako kasi konti lang po yung experience ko sa pag-aacting lalo na yung scene ko na may umiiyak, pero ‘nung pinalabas na sa big screen at nakita ko na maraming tao ang supporta, doon naman ako naoverwhelm,” he expressed.
[At first, I found it very difficult because I had little acting experience especially with emotional scenes. But when I saw the film on the big screen and felt the overwhelming support from the audience, I was truly moved.]
Looking Forward
The team plans to create more impactful films focused on youth-centered advocacy topics such as mental health awareness, suicide prevention, early pregnancy, and other challenges faced by today’s generation.
“This is just the beginning. We want to inspire and empower young people through stories that matter,” Kino-ol shared on their Facebook page. (FBR-PIA CAR, Ifugao)
Photo courtesy: IHingyon TV
