The Philippines stepped onto the Carthage Film Festival stage as guest of honor, using film to claim space, tell stories, and mark 50 years of Tunisian friendship.
A STILL from Lino Brocka’s ‘Insiang’ captures raw Manila life, anchoring the Philippines’ cinematic debut at Carthage in gritty, unforgettable storytelling.
Photograph courtesy of cinemanila corp.
The Philippines made a striking debut as guest of honor at the recent Carthage Film Festival, launching its inaugural “Focus Philippines” program and the year-long celebration of 50 years of diplomatic ties with Tunisia.
“The Philippines is honored to share its cinematic heritage with Tunisian and international audiences as we mark five decades of friendship,” said Chargé d’Affaires en pied Roderico Atienza during the gala.
Curated with the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the program featured five acclaimed Filipino films: Insiang (1976), Thy Womb (2012), John Denver Trending (2019), Sakaling Hindi Makarating (2016), and Gospel of the Beast (2023).
These works highlighted themes of resilience, identity, and social justice that resonated deeply with audiences.
Out of 165 films from 23 countries screened across 14 venues, the Philippines stood out, receiving an extended Arabic tribute at the gala celebrating its cinematic tradition.
Atienza also engaged audiences emphasizing cinema as a bridge between peoples, and recalling Tunisia’s solidarity during the 2011 evacuation of Filipinos from Libya.
Screenings continued across Greater Tunis through today, 20 December, accompanied by the opening of the Philippine stand recently.
The Philippine consulate general in Tunis, together with the local Filipino community, actively supported the program and festival activities, ensuring a memorable debut for the country’s film heritage.
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