Directors' guild shows support for 'Lost Sabungeros' after cancelled Cinemalaya showing

August 16 2024

By AARON BRENNT EUSEBIO

The Directors' Guild of the Philippines, Inc. expressed support for GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs' first-ever documentary film Lost Sabungeros after its initial premiere at the 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival was cancelled due to "security concerns."

In a statement, the group said that they were "deeply concerned" after the cancelled screening.

The statement read, "The Directors' Guild of the Philippines expresses its unwavering support for the art of filmmaking and the courageous individuals who bring important stories to light. In the wake of security concerns for public safety surrounding the screening venue of Lost Sabungeros at the 20th Cinemalaya Film Festival, we stand resolute in our commitment to creative freedom and the pursuit of truth."

"We are deeply concerned by the intimidation tactics employed by parties that seek to stifle the voice of filmmakers. The recent disruption, which resulted in the unfortunate cancellation of the screening of Lost Sabungeros for public safety reasons is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to challenge the entrenched through their art.

"Our thoughts and empathy are with the filmmaker, the producers, the festival, and the audience affected by this distressing situation. The safety of our creative community is paramount, and it is through collective vigilance and solidarity that we will overcome these challenges.

"We urge our fellow filmmakers to continue their passionate pursuit of storytelling, undeterred by threats and intimidation.

"The DGPI calls upon all filmmakers and our society to protect this freedom and democratic space, and to remain brave and resolute in their creative endeavors. It is through the courage to confront uncomfortable truths and address societal issues that we contribute to a more informed and empathetic world.

"In the face of adversity, we must hold steadfast to our commitment to creativity and the pursuit of truth. The DGPI remains dedicated to fostering an environment where artistic expression can flourish freely and securely."

The statement was signed by the president of the guild, Mark Meily.

Lost Sabungeros was supposed to be shown at the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival on August 8, 5:00 p.m., at Ayala Mall Manila Bay Cinema 2, and on August 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Cinema 8.

However, on August 4, Cinemalaya cancelled these screenings "due to security concerns."

Lost Sabungeros, directed by award-winning documentary filmmaker Bryan Brazil and produced by the team behind Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, follows the families of the missing in their agonizing search for answers.

When the pandemic shut down all cockfighting arenas in the Philippines, the century-old gambling blood sport moved online and grew into a money-making machine overnight, creating instant millionaires among its cockfighters. But things took a shocking turn when more than 30 men disappeared without a trace.

Over a span of nine months, groups of cockfighters disappeared in three major arenas, while others were abducted in their homes or on the road. Two years after the serial disappearances, not one has been found—dead or alive.