How Richard Salvadico and Arlie Sumagaysay use film to rally the cause of the indigenous Tumandok
While making a film about the struggles of the Ati community is undoubtedly a noble pursuit, it also comes with serious risks, particularly due to the political tensions surrounding the issue. Both Salvadico and Sumagaysay faced direct threats and acts of violence during filming.
'In those moments, we would call out the producer and tell him that 'this might be our last location'. But each time, we couldn't help but think about the 286 people living in Kabarangkalan,' they said. 'If we, as outsiders, were shaken by the threats we encountered, how much more must the community have endured over the years? That understanding fueled our determination to keep going—not just to finish the film, but to honour their resilience.'
Above Salvadico and Sumagaysay first heard about the struggles of the Ati community in Sitio Karabangkalan back in 2019 (Photo: Cinemalaya)
Above The terrain was among the biggest challenges the film crew faced while filming 'Tumandok' (Photo: Cinemalaya)
Sixty per cent of the film is based on the true story of En-En, the daughter of a Tumandok chieftain. Presented in a documentary style, the movie explores the daily struggles of the Ati community: from trekking up and down the mountains to perform for city audiences, to facing the dangers of being forced to relocate to unfamiliar lands where their traditional means of livelihood no longer exist.
'With Direk Arden Rod Condez's guidance, we have decided to include the struggles of different ati communities as well. The documentary format allows us to film the real portrayals of the characters, their way of life and their culture. While the fiction format allows us to have a structured narrative that encompasses the struggles of the other communities,' said Salvadico and Sumagaysay.
The film crew spent seven days shooting with the Tumandok people, while Salvadico and Sumagaysay arrived two weeks earlier to collaborate closely with the community and share the script for their feedback.
Among the challenges they faced were the difficult terrain, working with non-actors and adjusting to sleeping in tents. However, the filmmakers revealed that these small sacrifices pale in comparison to the struggles endured by the community.
'Reaching the community was difficult because our car could not access the entrance. As a result, we either had to walk or transport our equipment. The second was working with community members. Many of them had not received a formal education, so we needed to read the script and teach them methods to recognise their cue. While it was a challenge, it was also a fun experience that helped us connect with the community,' the filmmakers explain.
'Our sleeping situation was quite an adventure. We had to sleep in tents set up inside an old chicken coop to accommodate everyone. With over 20 people in our group, we had to share a toilet that only had a curtain as a door. But then again, these are nothing, nothing compared to the struggles of the community,' they added.
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Above Richard Salvadico and Arlie Sweet Sumagaysay, the makers of 'Tumandok' film (Photo: Cinemalaya)
Above A film still from 'Tumandok' (Photo: Cinemalaya)
Salvadico and Sumagaysay expressed gratitude for the recognition their film received. Although this marks their debut feature, the couple is more than willing to step aside and redirect the spotlight to the community, saying, 'The true credit belongs to them.'
'The award helps bring attention to their cause, and we are deeply committed to using this platform to reach our fundraising goal and make a tangible difference in their lives.'
See also: 'It's not all about the medals': Olympian Margielyn Didal and her skateboarding journey
Above Salvadico and Sumagaysay expressed gratitude for the recognition their film received. Although this marks their directorial debut in feature-length film, the couple is more than willing to step aside and redirect the spotlight to the community, saying, 'The true credit belongs to them' (Photo: Cinemalaya)
The filmmakers call on the government to help value and preserve the land and culture of the Ati communities. They stressed the importance of strengthening and properly imposing the Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act (IPRA) and expediting the process of issuing papers including Certificates of Ancestral Domain Titles (CADTs).
'Educating the communities about their land rights can help avoid disputes. It's also important to give more support to the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and take strong action against illegal land grabbing. Supporting projects that respect the land, involving the communities in protecting their environment and making sure they are consulted before any development happens are key steps. Providing legal help will also ensure they can defend their rights effectively,' the couple stressed.
For Salvadico and Sumagaysay, duty must always precede honour. 'Filmmakers have the power to inspire change, raise awareness and drive important conversations. They can shed light on pressing social issues, highlight injustices and give voice to underrepresented communities,' they conclude.
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