MANILA, PHILIPPINES, MARCH 22, 2022 – In celebration of the International Women’s Month this March 2022, the Philippine Embassy in Syria in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) is holding two film events in Damascus, Syria.

The celebration will consist of two events—the International Women’s Film Festival which will be held at the premier venue Damascus Opera House and will be showcasing films by Filipina filmmakers, while the Women’s Month Film Showing aims to be a more intimate gathering exclusive to the Filipino community at the Philippine Embassy in Damascus. 

The FDCP, through its Philippine Embassies Assistance Program (PEAP), provided the program and the curation of the film line-up that will be showcased during both events. 

The International Women’s Film Festival, will be opened to more than 300 guests on March 23-26, 2022 to present three films by Filipina filmmakers:

• Sakaling Hindi Makarating by Ice Idanan
• Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok by Lauren Faustino
• Lola Loleng by Che Tagyamon

While the Women’s Month Film Showing will be a limited capacity screening of 30 seats on all the Sundays of March (March 6, 13, 20, 27), 2022 which will offer eight quality Filipino films:

• Bagahe by Zig Dulay
• Sonata by Peque Gallaga, Lore Reyes
• Replay by Franky Arrocena
• Aliens Ata by Glenn Barit
• Signal Rock by Chito S. Roño 
• Old Skool by Cia Hermosa-Jorge
• K’na The Dreamweaver by Ida Anita Del Mundo 
• Insiang by Lino Brocka

“This is the first time that the FDCP is partnering with the Philippines Embassy in Syria, that is why we are so grateful to the organizers for making us part of the worthwhile cause of presenting a more positive image of the Philippines to improve the perception of Syrians about Filipinos. More than fostering cultural appreciation, we take pride in using our platform to showcase the many facets of our identity as a country and the richness of our stories, culture, and arts on the international stage.” FDCP Chairperson and CEO, Liza Diño said. 

In collaboration with the Diplomatic Club of Syria and the member Embassies and Consulates, the events’ goal is to present the Philippines differently - the organizers wanted to focus on encouraging respect and equality towards women migrant workers through inspiring and empowering films. 

The Philippines and Syria signed a Cultural Cooperation Agreement in 2009 as part of the efforts to boost economic relations and strengthen cultural ties. This month’s festivities bring together these two countries toward this common goal.