‘These films reflect the public’s deep frustration with corruption. By exposing the dark underbelly of politics and government, they inspire, provoke and challenge audiences to take action.’
The Philippines has long been plagued by corruption, leaving citizens feeling frustrated and helpless. However, Filipino filmmakers have taken it upon themselves to tackle this harsh reality head-on, creating thought-provoking movies that spark conversations and raise awareness.
These films reflect the public’s deep frustration with corruption. By exposing the dark underbelly of politics and government, they inspire, provoke and challenge audiences to take action.
Some notable examples include the mockumentary “Republika ng Pipolipinas” (2025), which follows a farmer’s fight against corruption in her local government. Erik Matti’s “On the Job” (2013) and its sequel explore the sinister side of political power while the documentary “The Kingmaker” (2019) investigates the life of Imelda Marcos and the rampant corruption during her time.
Classic films like “Sister Stella L.” (1984) and “Gumapang Ka sa Lusak” (1990) also touch on government neglect. Other notable mentions include “Miguelito” (1985), “NBI: Epimaco Velasco, the True Story” (1994) and “Norte, the End of History” (2013).
These films prove that Filipino cinema can be a powerful tool for social commentary and change, refusing to shy away from the harsh realities of corruption and instead inspiring audiences to demand more from their leaders and themselves.
Films about corruption educate audiences about its consequences, humanize the struggles of those affected and inspire change by showcasing characters who fight against it. They initiate discussions, debates and reflections, encouraging critical thinking and showing that collective action can lead to meaningful progress.
The power of Filipino films lies in their nuanced approach to confronting corruption, sparking conversations, raising awareness and inspiring change. By creating thought-provoking content, Filipino filmmakers can shape public discourse and promote accountability.
The recent state of the Philippine Film Heritage Building, criticized by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos who last week expressed frustration and dismay over its substandard and unfinished condition in a social media post highlighting issues like leaking roofs, cracked walls and incomplete theaters, and calling it a “rotten monument of incompetence,” is something we shouldn’t take lightly.
The P200 million project, intended to serve as a permanent home for Philippine cinema, was originally scheduled for completion by September 5, 2025. The contractor, Great Pacific Builders Contractor Inc., which is owned by the Discaya family, is now under scrutiny. This situation highlights the urgent need to take action against corruption. If we fail to address it now, will there still be a film industry left to preserve? More importantly, will there be a society worth living in?
It’s time to hold those in power accountable and demand real change. What will you do to make your voice heard and shape the future you want to see? Truly, it’s time to turn awareness into action.
