The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) has launched Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang: Ang Mahiwagang Bantay ng Bundok Arayat, an animated short film that combines the power of storytelling with the advocacy for environmental preservation. This captivating 15-minute film takes viewers on an adventure into the heart of Filipino folktales while emphasizing the importance of protecting the nation’s natural heritage.
Featuring the beloved Filipino character Lola Basyang, the story follows a young boy who discovers a magical world within the slopes of Mount Arayat. As he encounters mythical creatures, he learns valuable lessons on courage, friendship, and the significance of safeguarding nature.
Based on the CCP Encyclopedia of Philippine Art, Lola Basyang’s stories first appeared in Liwayway magazine in 1925. Written by the influential Filipino writer Severino Reyes, the first published story, Ang Plautin ni Periking (Periking’s Flute), tells the tale of three orphaned brothers and their encounter with an engkantado (a magical being).
Over the years, Lola Basyang has become a central figure in Filipino folklore, with her stories adapted into books, comics, TV shows, and films. This animated film adaptation is a collaboration between director Nelson “Blog” Caliguia Jr. and Dr. Christine Bellen-Ang, an expert on Lola Basyang, who notes that the children’s story series will celebrate its centennial anniversary in 2025.
The animation team from De La Salle College of St. Benilde brought Lola Basyang’s world to life, with musical scoring by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Herminigildo Ranera, and sound design by Pepe Manikan.
This animated short film is a project initiated by the CCP Board of Trustees, led by Chairman Jaime C. Laya. It aims to generate original content that reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage, particularly through folktales, myths, and legends. Launched in 2022, the CCP grant program supports local creative businesses, artists, and students by providing financial, technical, and educational resources.
During the launch at the Philippine Normal University (PNU), the National Center for Teacher Education, CCP Chairman Jaime Laya emphasized the importance of using the story of Lola Basyang as an engaging educational tool for children to learn about Filipino culture and values. He encouraged teachers and students to embrace the power of art in shaping a brighter future.
CCP Vice-Chairperson Margie Moran-Floirendo, who voices the character Impong Gubat, noted that the animated film is not only about preserving Lola Basyang’s legacy but also about instilling love for nature and essential Filipino values in the younger generation. “When children learn to protect nature, they secure their future and the future of all living things,” she shared.
The film launch coincided with the CCP Arts Academy, a program designed to provide teachers with specialized training in integrating arts into education. Teacher participants had the opportunity to engage with the production team, where Caliguia Jr. discussed the creative process, and Dr. Bellen-Ang shared educational insights.
Dr. Marilyn U. Balagtas, PNU Vice President for Academics, expressed gratitude for the partnership with CCP, highlighting the film launch as a perfect way to promote Filipino culture and artists.
Looking ahead, CCP Artistic Director Dennis Marasigan shared plans to screen Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang: Ang Mahiwagang Bantay ng Bundok Arayat at educational institutions, explore a possible television broadcast, and potentially develop sequels to extend the story’s impact.
For more updates on Mga Kuwento ni Lola Basyang and CCP programs, follow the official CCP accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit the CCP YouTube Channel for archived productions.
