Mindanao-based film ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa’ shines at Dhaka film fest

CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – A documentary by Mindanao-based journalist and filmmaker Editha Z. Caduaya, Sa Likod ng Tsapa (Beneath the Badge), transforms a journalistic investigation into a cinematic journey that unveils the hidden human cost of public service. 

Through intimate storytelling, it captures the moral dilemmas, personal sacrifices, and quiet triumphs of those sworn to protect, offering audiences a perspective beyond the uniform and public perception.

The film received a special recognition at the 24th Dhaka International Film Festival in Bangladesh – a festival among South Asia’s longest-running and most respected – marking a milestone for Mindanao filmmaking. The festival was held from January 10 to 18.

The Special Mention Award affirmed the documentary’s emotional impact and its ability to resonate across cultures, showcasing the untold stories and voices of Southern Philippines, a region often overlooked in Philippine cinema.

The documentary traces the career of Police Colonel Hansel M. Marantan from Northern Luzon to Mindanao, including key assignments such as leading the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Metro Manila and serving as Davao City’s acting police director. It portrays the complex realities of police service – its challenges, moral dilemmas, personal sacrifices, and moments of quiet triumph – beyond public perception.

Produced by POP Moviehouse and Newsline Philippines, the film features a cast and crew primarily from Davao City, emphasizing its regional roots. In 2025, its promotional trailer received a “G” rating from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), allowing it to be shown to general audiences in Philippine cinemas.

The Dhaka recognition, granted based on audience response, showed the film’s universal appeal and the growing presence of Philippine documentaries on the global stage, particularly those from outside traditional production centers.

Caduaya described the recognition as very meaningful to her because it came directly from the audience. 

“It tells us that stories from Mindanao – when told honestly and without embellishment – can move people anywhere in the world,” she said. 

Caduaya said journalism has been her foundation for more than three decades, and she never imagined a story rooted in reporting would travel this far or be honored internationally. She said the award affirmed her belief in the power of truth-based storytelling.

She also emphasized that the recognition is a win for creators from regions outside the National Capital Region, proving that compelling stories do not need to come from major production centers. 

Caduaya also said it represents a broader achievement for Philippine cinema, and filmmakers who create despite limitations, choose courage over convenience, and insist that Filipino stories deserve a place on the global stage.

With its recognition at Dhaka, Sa Likod ng Tsapa continues to gain momentum toward wider international and local screenings, including a planned national theatrical release, carrying the pride of Philippine storytelling and the growing recognition of Mindanao-based filmmakers.

“If this film encourages even one young storyteller from the regions to believe in their voice,” Caduaya said, “then this recognition has already achieved something far greater than an award.” – Rappler.com