Experiencing Interruptions?

A Personal Reminiscence (Sariling Gunita)

WHAT MAKES A MEMORY?

VIRGILIO S. ALMARIO began by reciting his poem "May Sabadong Ganito" from his book "Mga Retrato at Rekwedo (1984)" as his genuine concern for San Miguel (de Mayumo), his hometown. Rio Alma recalls the things seen, regretted, lost, and neglected in the cultural heritage of the Philippines. He began to look back and feel what had happened because of the experiences of colonial history and worshiped Western culture that was remarkable. Rio Alma discovered his ability to create scale and harmony, a native element of Filipino literature.

  • Mark Daniel De Castro
    Director
  • Steaven Vernon Sisno
    Writer
  • Mark Daniel De Castro
    Writer
  • Mark Daniel De Castro
    Producer
  • Virgilio Senadrin Almario
    Key Cast
    "Himself"
  • Jude Claire Cruz
    Production Manager
  • Yana De Jesus
    Production Assistant
  • Tristan James Trinidad
    Editor
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    Sariling Gunita
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short, Student
  • Genres:
    Documentary film, Performative Documentary
  • Runtime:
    10 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    October 29, 2022
  • Production Budget:
    200 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Philippines
  • Country of Filming:
    Philippines
  • Language:
    English, Tagalog
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, Blackmagic RAW
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Bulacan State University
  • Cinema Rehiyon15 @ Montañosa Film Festival
    Baguio City
    Philippines
    March 31, 2023
    Philippine Premiere
    Official Selection
  • SINEliksik Bulacan Docu Special
    Malolos, Bulacan
    Philippines
    November 4, 2022
    Bulacan Premiere
    Best In Trailer and Official Finalist
  • 35th Gawad Alternatibo
    City of Manila, Philippines
    Philippines
    August 4, 2023
    Philippine Premiere
    Official Selection (Documentary)
Director Biography - Mark Daniel De Castro

Daniel has a background in visual storytelling and filmmaking, having been introduced to the medium through his study of art. He honed his skills as a cinematographer, film editor, and colorist while working with a film organization. He made his debut as an independent filmmaker in 2020, with his work being viewed by thousands on iWantTFC and at international film festivals. He has received recognition from government agencies and non-profit organizations in the Asia-Pacific region, and aims to use his unique perspective and influence to connect civic groups and creative individuals in order to further initiatives for a better world.

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Director Statement

“Bata pa lamang ako, naging palaisipan kung bakit nahilig ako sa pag-aaral ng mga nakatagong kwento na madalas kong daanan sa Bayan. Hindi ko hinayaan na walang matutunan mula sa kasaysayan ng mga indibidual na lumaki sa Bayan at kanilang kontribusyon kung saan sila mapunta.”

These are the words I've always articulated when creating films in my hometown of San Miguel De Mayumo.

Never have I ever thought that my films will be used as learning materials for students at my alumni school (DepEd Tayo - San Miguel National High School). I want to thank the opportunity for the educators at Contemporary Philippine Arts from the Regions (Grade 12) for showcasing the life and works of the National Artist for Literature (and a former teacher of SMNHS), Dr. Virgilio Almario.

Using my new knowledge and research learned during the production stage of SINEliksik Docu Special (under BULACAN History and Heritage), it's a distinguished chance to revitalize the arts and culture that Filipinos can create with their extant talent!

Big gratitude to the National Artist for Literature (and my grandfather), Dr. Virgilio Almario for your continued trust in us to make a short film about your life and as the Guest of Honor for the 4th SINEliksik Bulacan DocuFest and SINEliksik Bulacan Docu Special with the theme: "Alagad ng Sining na Bulakenyo, Dangal ng Lahing Pilipino!" 🌏🎨

This is an achievement for the significant development of art and culture from San Miguel De Mayumo for a long time.