8th Indie-Siyensya: Stream documentaries on science, Filipino culture for free until November 8

Missed the 8th Indie-Siyensya film screenings in select Cinematheque Centres the past week? Fret not, you can stream them online for free until November 8!

With the theme "Siyensya sa Kultura, Kultura sa Siyensya," the 8th Indie-Siyensya Filmmaking Competition launched on October 14, featuring 10 film finalists that showcase the convergence between science and Filipino culture.

The 10 science documentaries may be streamed online for free through the Film Development Council of the Philippines' JuanFlix Channel.

To watch, simply log-in or register at www.JuanFlix.com.ph then look for Indie Siyensya from the Special Features tab. Then, click the Watch Now button to access your film of choice.

Here are the ten films that you may stream!

Open Category

"Eksmen" by Heather Simonette Rose M. Intong is about the Sama Dilaut (Badjaos) in Simunul, Tawi-Tawi and their incredible abilities to dive and hold their breath underwater.

Mondrayniel F. Sarte's "Kalasag ng Tubod" transports viewers to the Twin Lakes Natural Park in Negros Oriental, where traditional ecological knowledge and modern conservation efforts coexist in harmony.

"Herbolaryo" by Dexter Paul De Jesus and Drexler Jaramel, on the other hand, shows the important role of "herbolaryos," how herbal plants are used in traditional healing, and how science and technology utilize these herbal plants for modern medicine.

John Rafael C. Labini explores the tradition of naming winds in Malaban, Biñan, Laguna in his film, "Banghay." Blending science and folklore, the film shows viewers the importance of naming winds among the fisherfolk community and the how wind names are tied to the environment.

"Through Each Thread" by Gian Arre features the weaving tradition in Indang, Cavite, including the cultural importance and scientific principles behind this practice.

Youth Category

In this category, two films spotlight the sustainability of traditional practices.

Julia Gabrielle P. Salonga's "KaLikhasan" centers on the advantages of bahay na bato architecture, while Anjalique Rendon's "Nganga" is about the culture and scientific principles of chewing nganga or betel nut among the Dumagat-Remontado indigenous community.

Meanwhile, "Gakit: The Journey of Change" by Eula Frances A. Macabodbod looks into the historical and cultural importance of Pulangi River in Valencia, Bukidnon.

"Decadent Bitterness" by Lloyd Zedric B. Apacible is a visual reflection on the history of piaya, a Philippine delicacy made of flatbread and muscovado sugar.

Lastly, "Gangis" by Xandre Yosef Gaan highlights the interplay between the Talaandig indigenous community's beliefs to scientific insights.

Viewers may vote for their favorite film on JuanFlix until November 8 (one vote per category). Be apprised that viewers must watch all of the entries of the film competition for their votes to be considered valid.

The Indie-Siyensya Filmmaking Competition is organized by the Department of Science and Technology's Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI), bringing together Filipino filmmakers and science communicators to promote science and culture through films that are accessible to the youth and general public.

— CDC, GMA Integrated News