‘Boses’: Pinoy film about abuse, healing power of music opens ASEAN Film Fest in Geneva

Independent Filipino film "Boses" (2008) opened the 2017 ASEAN Film Festival in Geneva.

Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil's film is about Onyok, a small child who is physically abused by his father but who finds healing and comfort in music and the mentorship of his violin teacher. The film stars renowned violinist Coke Bolipata and Julian Duque—who also happens to be Bolipata's student at Casa San Miguel in Zambales.

READ: Child advocates support reshowing of indie film 'Boses'

READ: Film as healing in 'Boses'

READ: Fridays with violinist Coke Bolipata

"Boses" is supported by several government and child rights organizations, including the Philippine Commission on Women and the Philippine Society of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists. In previous screenings, the film also received support from organizations and groups such as UNICEF, the Council for Welfare of Children, World Vision, and the UP-PGH Child Protection Unit.

"Boses" also stars Ricky Davao, Cherry Pie Picache and Meryll Soriano.

The festival runs from March 27-April 7 at the Palais des Nations in the Swiss city, and also features the films “Cahaya dari Timur: Beta Maluku” (Indonesia), “Adam Eve Datsa” (Myanmar), “My Magic” (Singapore), “Yellow Flower in Green Grass” (Vietnam), “Redha” (Malaysia), “Yasmine” (Brunei Darussalam), “Only Love” (Lao People's Democratic Republic), “Vanished” (Cambodia), and “Best of Times” (Thailand). — BM, GMA News