The Far Eastern University Department of Communication (FEU DepComm) held a full‑house screening of JL Burgos’s award‑winning documentary “Alipato at Muog” at the university’s 1,000‑seater Main Auditorium last Feb. 10—clear proof of Tamaraws’ strong interest in social and political engagement.
This 2024 documentary, which follows the fight for justice for Burgos’s brother Jonas, who was forcibly disappeared in 2007, has earned major recognition, including Best Picture and Best Director at the 73rd FAMAS Awards. The film had earlier been given an X‑rating by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board before being reclassified to R‑16 after Burgos appealed to the board to review its decision.
A talkback session followed the screening, moderated by FEU DepComm faculty member Jayneca Reyes. Burgos emphasized that meaningful involvement in social issues does not require formal artistic training—awareness alone can inspire action within one’s own community. This message aligns strongly with the department’s mantra “May alam, May pakialam,” which reminds students that awareness must lead to civic responsibility and participation.
Also present were the film’s producer Mona Nieva, and Susan Cueva, whose support made the FEU screening possible and ensured that more young audiences could engage with the film’s urgent call for justice.
The event demonstrated how academic initiatives can enrich the broader FEU community. By opening spaces where students can encounter complex social issues through film and dialogue, activities like this help cultivate a university culture that values critical thinking, empathy, and active citizenship. In bringing “Alipato at Muog” to FEU, the organizers contributed to an environment where Tamaraws are encouraged not only to stay informed but to recognize their role in shaping conversations that matter.