MANILA, PHILIPPINES — No fancy endorsers, no big production; just raw footage of frontliners answering the call of duty as they help other people, practically strangers, as they deal with the COVID-19 crisis, crowdsourced from social media by Film Pabrika, and set to the tune of the ’90s classic With a Smile by the Eraserheads. In this 2-minute film entitled “We Smile As One” from the Department of Tourism, we’re reminded of one of the best things about being Filipino: smiling in the face of adversity.
While beaches and tourist hotspots are empty, the Department of Tourism has found a way to keep everyone’s spirits up as they stay indoors. The film showcases everyday acts of kindness from healthcare workers, checkpoint personnel, and concerned citizens alike. It is a celebration of the warmth and resilience of the Filipino people, especially at a critical time like this.
DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat posted the film on her personal account over the weekend, saying:
“’Lift your head,
baby don’t be scared, of the things that could go wrong along the way…’
“These lyrics from the Eraserheads’ classic anthem “With a Smile” have provided solace and comfort for many Filipinos over the years. It is a much needed anthem for these times
“Filipinos are known for their smiles. During this time though, we have had to hide them from view. But through our acts of compassion and kindness you can feel the warmth of those smiles, even behind masks and even when we are physically distant.”
With A Smile, the song used in the campaign is by one of the Philippines’ biggest bands in the ‘90s, Eraserheads, with the track that has brought comfort to many generations since its release.
Moreover, all the clips and photos used in the video were sourced from all over the country, crediting citizens for their own personal footage. The video was conceptualized by award winning director, Joel Limchoc, and his team at Film Pabrika. adobo magazine asked him for how the process went, and this is what he shared with us:
“From concept to putting up a team to do video researching… It took us about two weeks to gather and ask permission for the videos – all of which are from facebook. Half of the shots were shot by my staff, family members, and friends, all using their smartphones.”
This is a welcome initiative from the Department of Tourism, celebrating a Philippine landmark that goes beyond geography. That is, the smiles, the strength, and the attitude of its people.
Credits:
The production team was director Joel Limchoc, producer Steve Vesagas, music arranger Malek Lopez, singer Bea Lorenzo who all worked from their own homes to make it.
Music and lyrics are from the Eraserhead’s anthem, “With a Smile” with the generous permission of Ely Buendia.
Contributors:
Alexis Agacite Mago, Andrea Olivar, Anne Tiongco, Arlene Arbas of DOH, Bea Caubat, Benjie Marasigan, Blane Rosales, Brylle Eldrin Balana, Camille Dowling Ibanes, Cecille Escano, Chad Chacon, Charlie Magne Amor, Coca-Cola, Daddy Gabby Bacarro, Danika Madulid, Department of Health, DLSU, DLS-College of St. Benilde, Dr. Gene Tiongco, Dr. Gerardo D. Legazpi, Dr. Jonas Del Rosario, Edrie Ocampo, Elmer Delen, Elmer Salangsang, Ely Buendia, Erik Nadal, Fr. Toto Cerada SDB, Gretel Teope, Jade Canoy Dingson, James Baruela, Jamir Gabrielle, Jerome Lanopa, John Paul Quelindrino, Julius Sabile, Kat Osorio, Katinko, Louie Poco, Makati Medical Center, Marie Angeles, Melissa Yeung Yap, Miriam Valero-Lopez, Nurses of Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Paolo Dillera, Peejay Villanueva, Perpetual Succor Hospital, Pinky and Arnel Alban, Popburri, Puch Agodon, Richard Richard, Tau Gamma Phi Karangalan Village Chapter, UP-Philippine General Hospital, Vir Ascabano, Wilbert Laforteza.”
