Manila, Philippines — DAKILA and its human rights education center, Active Vista, in partnership with Picture People and iMedia, with support from the British Council and the Rockefeller Foundation, conclude the Climate Story Lab by awarding seed grants to Filipino short films that highlight the critical and urgent impacts of climate change. Four outstanding projects have been chosen to receive further mentorship, funding, and production support to bring their powerful stories to life:
- “Nagahanaw na mga Aninipot” by John Paul Corton, Jaime Morados, and Linus Masandag
- “I Bannag Ta Pansi Batil Patu” by Jerome Dulin and Sef Arcegono
- “Manila is a Gate of Hell” by Jerome Zamora and Maan Dagñalan
- “Ang Propesiya” by Milo Paz and Cynthia Paz
These films offer a diverse range of narratives surrounding the climate crisis, from indigenous perspectives and urban challenges to prophetic warnings about environmental degradation. Each story underscores that climate change is not just an environmental issue but a profound human rights crisis affecting vulnerable communities in the Philippines
“Nagahanaw na mga Aninipot” by John Paul Corton, Jaime Morados, and Linus Masandag
“I Bannag Ta Pansi Batil Patu” by Jerome Dulin and Sef Arcegono
The Climate Story Lab is an extension of DAKILA and Active Vista’s long-standing social impact program, which aims to harness the power of film and creative media to champion human rights and social justice causes. The lab empowers filmmakers to use visual storytelling to amplify climate justice narratives. Through an intensive mentorship program, participants engage with leading experts in climate advocacy, film production, and human rights, equipping them with the skills needed to craft impactful stories that resonate locally and globally.
“Manila is a Gate of Hell” by Jerome Zamora and Maan Dagñalan
“Ang Propesiya” by Milo Paz and Cynthia Paz
By spotlighting the human toll of environmental destruction, these films contribute to a growing movement that positions the climate emergency at the intersection of human rights, social justice, and artistic expression. As part of the lab’s commitment to advocacy, these films will be showcased at key events and film festivals, sparking vital conversations in local and international forums.
Awardees with Jury
Through this initiative, Climate Story Lab continues its mission to advocate for inclusive and sustainable solutions to the climate crisis. The lab’s organizers hope that these films will challenge perspectives, inspire meaningful action, and motivate governments, corporations, and communities to take urgent steps toward climate justice.
