Despite the upheavals and disruptions of almost all aspects of life, the Philippines has been witness to many acts of kindness, especially at the front-lines where the massive support for the front-liners can be seen. While we well know Filipinos are well all over the world for having warm smiles, it forces them to hide behind a mask.
To pay tribute to this, the Department of Tourism has released a video entitled “Smile” featuring a rework of the beloved 1990s Eraserheads song, “With A Smile.”
The video salutes the resilient and brave men and women at the frontline: medical health workers, grocery and convenience store clerks, delivery men, basic services and utility crew members, and the police and military officers who keep us safe.
Directed by Joel Limchoc, we pieced together the video from existing user-created videos and photos already posted online on social media and the news media. Much like the DOT’s lauded “It’s More Fun in the Philippines” campaign, it was put together through authentic, 100% crowdsourced content.
Ely Buendia, who composed “With a Smile” for the legendary band, the Eraserheads, generously allowed the use of his composition. Singer and songwriter Bea Lorenzo provided heartfelt vocals over a sparse, cinematic reworking of the classic anthem.
