Filipino women, especially those in the arts, have been a formidable force throughout history. From National Artists such as Marilou Diaz-Abaya, Nora Aunor, Edith Tiempo, Salvacion Lim-Higgins, Francisca Reyes Aquino, Alice Reyes, Leonor Orosa Goquingco, Lucrecia Reyes-Urtula, Agnes Locsin, Lucrecia Kasilag, Jovita Fuentes, Andrea Veneracion, Honorata “Atang” dela Rama, Fides Cuyugan-Asensio, Daisy Avellana and Amelia Lapeña-Bonifacio, to today’s rising Filipina artists, they exemplify empowerment and gender equality.

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Cultural Center of the Philippines shines a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of Filipino women filmmakers. Here are 10 must-watch classic films created by women, for women, and about women.

Brutal (1980)

Directed by National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya

Written by National

Artist Ricky Lee

Monica Real becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her husband, Tato, and two other men. While in jail, she refuses to speak, isolating herself from the world — until journalist Clara investigates her case and uncovers a harrowing truth. Brutal is the first Filipino film to frame gender-based violence as a feminist issue within the Philippine patriarchal society. It is the first in Diaz-Abaya and Lee’s trilogy on women.

Moral (1982)

Directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya

Written by Ricky Lee

Four best friends — Joey, Maritess, Sylvia and Kathy — navigate life together until individual struggles pull them in different directions. As they face personal challenges and decisions, they embark on separate paths, each embracing newfound independence.