Fifty Editions of the Metro Manila Film Festival

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) is an annual film festival organized by the Metro Manila Development Authority.

Except for its first edition in 1975, the MMFF runs from Christmas Day through New Year's Day and into first weekend of January in the following year.

Movie theaters show only films that are approved by the MMFF's jurors during the course of the festival.

As the MMFF marks its fiftieth edition this year, let us recall the official entries that have been selected for the much-awaited event since 1975.

A variation of the MMFF logo (1975 - 2009)

MMFF logo (2010 - 2016)

MMFF logo (2016 - present)

1st Metro Manila Festival (a.k.a. 1st Metropolitan Film Festival)

September 21, 1975 to September 30, 1975

Alat!

Araw-Araw, Gabi-Gabi

Batu-Bato sa Langit (Ang Tamaa'y Huwag Magagalit..!)

Diligin mo ng Hamog ang Uhaw na Lupa

Kapitan Kulas

Karugtong ang Kahapon

Postcards from China

Siya'y Umalis, Siya'y Dumating

2nd Metro Manila Film Festival (a.k.a. 1976 Filipino Film Festival)

December 25, 1976 to January 3, 1977

Barok 

Dateline Chicago: Arrest the Nurse Killer

Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon

Insiang

The Interceptors

Kisame Street

Makahiya at Talahib           

Minsa'y Isang Gamu-gamo           

Puede Ako, Puwede Ka Pa Ba

The Rebel Hunter (True-to-Life Story of Brig. Gen. Romeo Gatan)

3rd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 24, 1977 to January 2, 1978

Babae ... Ngayon at Kailanman

Bakya Mo Neneng

Banta ng Kahapon

Mga Bilanggong Birhen

Burlesk Queen

Inay

Kung Mangarap Ka't Magising

Sa Piling ng mga Sugapa

Walang Katapusang Tag-araw

4th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1978 to January 3, 1979

Atsay

Garrote: Jai Alai King

Ang Huling Lalaki ng Baluarte

Jack n'Jill of the Third Kind

The Jess Lapid Story

Katawang Alabok

Kid Kaliwete

Rubia Servios

Salonga

5th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1979 to January 3, 1980

Alabok na Ginto

Ang Alamat ni Julian Makabayan

Bugoy

Ina Ka ng Anak Mo

Kadete

Kasal-Kasalan, Bahay-Bahayan

Ang Lihim ng Guadalupe

Mamang Sorbetero

Modelong Tanso

Ang Sisiw ay Isang Agila

6th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1980 to January 3, 1981

Basag

Bona

Brutal

Dang-Dong

Kape't Gatas

Kung Ako'y Iiwan Mo

Langis at Tubig

Ang Panday

Taga sa Panahon

Tembong

7th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1981 to January 3, 1982

Ang Babae sa Ulog

Indio

Init O' Lamig

Kamlon

Kapitan Kidlat

Karma

Kisapmata

Pagbabalik ng Panday

Rock n' Roll

Tropang Bulilit

8th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1982 to January 3, 1983

The Cute ... The Sexy n' the Tiny

Desire

Haplos

Himala

Magindanao

Moral

Ang Panday: Ikatlong Yugto

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town

Tatlo Silang Tatay Ko

Tulisan ng Pasong Musang

9th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1983 to January 3, 1984

Bad Bananas sa Puting Tabing

Bago Kumalat ang Kamandag

D'Godson

Gunfighter

Hot Property

Karnal

Over My Dead Body

Tengteng De Sarapen

10th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1984 to January 3, 1985

Alapaap

Atsay Killer: Buti Nga Sa'yo

Bukas ... May Pangarap

Bulaklak sa City Jail

Idol

Misteryo sa Tuwa

Muntinlupa

Ang Panday IV: Ika- Apat na Aklat

Shake, Rattle & Roll

11th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1985 to January 3, 1986

Ano ang Kulay ng Mukha ng Diyos?

Boboy Tibayan: Tigre ng Cavite

Bomba Arienda

God … Save Me!

Hee Man: Master of None

I Can't Stop Loving You

Menudo at Pandesal

The Moises Padilla Story: The Missing Chapter

Oks na Oks Partner

Paradise Inn

12th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1986 to January 3, 1987

Bagets Gang

Bangkay Mo Akong Hahakbangan

Captain Barbell

Halimaw

Payaso

Salamangkero: The Magician

Tuklaw

13th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1987 to January 3, 1988

1+1=12+1 (Cheaper by the Dozen)

Action Is Not Missing (Crack Platoon)

Anak Badjao

Huwag Mong Buhayin ang Bangkay

Olongapo ... The Great American Dream

The Untold Story of Melanie Marquez

14th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1988 to January 3, 1989

Agila ng Maynila

Celestina Sanchez, Alyas Bubbles - Enforcer: Ativan Gang

Itanong Mo sa Buwan

Magkano ang Iyong Dangal?

Patrolman

Pik Pak Boom

15th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1989 to January 3, 1990

Ang Bukas ay Akin (Langit ay Uusig)

Imortal

Irosin: Pagputok ng Araw ... Babaha ng Dugo!

Last Two Minutes

Ang Mahiwagang Daigdig ni Elias Paniki

Tupang Itim

16th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1990 to January 3, 1991

Ama ... Bakit Mo Ako Pinabayaan?

Andrea, Paano Ba ang Maging Isang Ina?

Baril Ko ... Ang Uusig!

Espadang Patpat

Shake, Rattle & Roll II        

Tumakbo Ka ... Hanggang May Lupa

17th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1991 to January 3, 1992

Contreras Gang

Darna

Juan Tamad at Mister Shooli: Mongolian Barbecue

Magdalena S. Palacol Story

Okay Ka, Fairy Ko!

Ang Totoong Buhay ni Pacita M.

Shake, Rattle & Roll III

18th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1992 to January 3, 1993

Andres Manambit: Angkan ng Matatapang

Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal

Engkanto

Okay Ka, Fairy Ko! Part 2

Shake, Rattle & Roll IV      

Takbo ... Talon ... Tili!!!

19th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1993 to January 3, 1994

Doring Dorobo: Hagupit ng Batas

Gaano Kita Kamahal

Inay

Kung Mawawala Ka Pa

May Minamahal

Pusoy Dos

20th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1994 to January 3, 1995

Kanto Boy 2: Anak ni Totoy Guapo

Lucas Abelardo

Mama's Boys 2: Let's Go Na!

Ang Pagbabalik ni Pedro Penduko

Shake, Rattle & Roll V       

Wanted: Perfect Father

21st Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1995 to January 3, 1996

Dahas           

Father en Son

Huwag Mong Isuko ang Laban

Isko: Adventures in Animasia

Magic Kombat

Muling Umawit ang Puso

22nd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1996 to January 3, 1997

Aring King King: Ang Bodyguard Kong Sexy

Emong Salvacion: Humanda Ka ... Oras Mo Na!

Kahit Kailan: Love Forgives

Magic Temple

Rubberman: Up, Up and Away!

Trudis Liit

23rd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1997 to January 3, 1998

Adarna: The Mythical Bird

Anak ng Bulkan

Babae

Magic Kingdom: Ang Alamat ng Damortis

Nasaan ang Puso

Padre Kalibre

24th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1998 to January 3, 1999

Babae sa Bintana

Hiwaga ng Panday

Jose Rizal

Kasal-kasalan Sakalan

Puso ng Pasko

Sambahin ang Ngalan Mo

25th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 1999 to January 3, 2000

Ako ang Lalagot ng Hininga Mo

Bulaklak ng Maynila

Esperanza: The Movie

Muro-Ami

Pepeng Agimat

Sa Piling ng Aswang

26th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2000 to January 3, 2001

Deathrow

Markova: Comfort Gay

Ping Lacson: Super Cop

Spirit Warriors

Sugatang Puso

Tanging Yaman

27th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2001 to January 3, 2002

Bagong Buwan

Bahay ni Lola

Di Kita Ma-Reach

Hubog

Susmaryosep! Four Fathers

Tatarin

Yamashita: The Tiger's Treasure

28th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2002 to January 10, 2003

FIRST BATCH

Ang Agimat: Anting-Anting ni Lolo

Ang Alamat ng Lawin

Dekada '70

Home Along da Riber

Hula Mo ... Huli Ko

Lapu-Lapu

Mano Po

 

SECOND BATCH

Lastikman

Spirit Warriors: The Shortcut

29th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2003 to January 8, 2004

FIRST BATCH

Captain Barbell

Crying Ladies

Fantastic Man

Filipinas

Homecoming           

Malikmata

Mano Po II: My Home

 

SECOND BATCH

Bridal Shower

Gagamboy

30th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2004 to January 5, 2005

 

Aishite Imasu 1941: Mahal Kita

Enteng Kabisote: Okay ka, Fairy Ko: The Legend

Lastikman: Unang Banat

Mano Po III: My Love

Panaghoy sa Suba

Sigaw

So Happy Together

Spirit of the Glass

31st Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2005 to January 7, 2006

FIRST BATCH

Enteng Kabisote 2: Okay Ka Fairy Ko: The Legend Continues

Exodus: Tales from the Enchanted Kingdom

Kutob

Mano Po 4: Ako Legal Wife

Mulawin: The Movie           

Shake, Rattle & Roll 2k5   

Terrorist Hunter

 

SECOND BATCH

Blue Moon

Lagot Ka sa Kuya Ko!

Mourning Girls

32nd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2006 to January 7, 2007

Enteng Kabisote 3: Okay Ka, Fairy Ko: The Legend Goes On and On and On

Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo

Ligalig

Mano Po 5: Gua Ai Di

Matakot Ka sa Karma

Shake, Rattle and Roll 8   

Super Noypi

Tatlong Baraha

Zsazsa Zaturnnah Ze Moveeh

33rd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2007 to January 7, 2008

 

FIRST BATCH

Bahay Kubo: A Pinoy Mano Po!

Enteng Kabisote 4: Okay Ka, Fairy Ko: The Beginning of the Legend

Katas ng Saudi

Resiklo

Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo

Shake, Rattle and Roll 9

SECOND BATCH

Anak ng Kumander

Banal

Desperadas

34th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2008 to January 7, 2009

Baler

Dayo: Sa Mundo ng Elementalia

Desperadas 2

Iskul Bukol 20 Years After: The Ungasis and Escaleras Adventure

Magkaibigan

One Night Only

Shake, Rattle & Roll X

Ang Tanging Ina N'yong Lahat

35th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2009 to January 7, 2010

Ang Darling Kong Aswang

I Love You, Goodbye

Nobody, Nobody But... Juan

Mano Po 6: A Mother's Love

Ang Panday

Shake, Rattle & Roll XI

Wapakman

36th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2010 to January 7, 2011

 

Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote

Dalaw

Father Jejemon

Rosario

RPG Metanoia

Shake, Rattle and Roll 12

Super Inday and the Golden Bibe

Ang Tanging Ina Mo (Last na 'To!)

37th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2011 to January 7, 2012

 

Enteng ng Ina Mo

My House Husband: Ikaw Na!

Ang Panday 2

Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story

Segunda Mano

Shake, Rattle & Roll 13

Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

38th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2012 to January 8, 2013

Si Agimat, si Enteng Kabisote at si Ako

El Presidente: General Emilio Aguinaldo Story and the First Philippine Republic

One More Try

Shake, Rattle and Roll Fourteen: The Invasion

Sisterakas

Sosy Problems

The Strangers

Thy Womb

39th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2013 to January 7, 2014

 

10,000 Hours

Boy Golden

Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy

Kaleidoscope World           

Kimmy Dora: Ang Kiyemeng Prequel

My Little Bossings

Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay

Pedro Calungsod: Batang Martir

40th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2014 to January 7, 2015

 

The Amazing Praybeyt Benjamin

Bonifacio: Ang Unang Pangulo

English Only, Please

Feng Shui 2

Kubot: The Aswang Chronicles 2

Muslim Magnum .357: To Serve and Protect

My Big Bossing

Shake, Rattle & Roll XV

41st Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2015 to January 7, 2016

All You Need Is Pag-ibig

Beauty and the Bestie

Buy Now, Die Later

Haunted Mansion

Honor Thy Father

My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore

Nilalang

#Walang Forever

42nd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2016 to January 7, 2017

 

Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 2: #ForeverIsNotEnough

Die Beautiful

Kabisera

Oro

Saving Sally

Seklusyon

Sunday Beauty Queen

Vince & Kath & James

43rd Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2017 to January 7, 2018

All of You

Gandarrapiddo: The Revenger Squad

Meant to Beh

Ang Panday

Deadma Walking

Haunted Forest

Ang Larawan

Siargao

44th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2018 to January 7, 2019

 

Aurora

Fantastica

The Girl in the Orange Dress

Jack Em Popoy: The Puliscredibles

Mary, Marry Me

One Great Love

Otlum

Rainbow's Sunset

45th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2019 to January 7, 2020

Miracle in Cell No. 7           

Mission Unstapabol: The Don Identity

The Mall, The Merrier

Sunod

3pol Trobol: Huli Ka Balbon!

Culion

Mindanao

Write About Love

46th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2020 to January 8, 2021

Coming Home

Fan Girl

Isa Pang Bahaghari

Magikland

Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandanang Itim

Pakboys Takusa

Suarez: The Healing Priest

Tagpuan

The Boy Foretold by the Stars

The Missing

47th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2021 to January 7, 2022

A Hard Day

Big Night!

Huling Ulan sa Tag-Araw

Huwag Kang Lalabas

Kun Maupay Man it Panahon

Love at First Stream

Nelia

The Exorsis

48th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2022 to January 7, 2023

 

Labyu with an Accent

Nanahimik ang Gabi

Partners in Crime

My Teacher

Deleter

Family Matters

Mamasapano: Now It Can Be Told

My Father, Myself

49th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2023 to January 14, 2024

Family of Two

Kampon

Penduko

Rewind

Becky & Badette

Broken Hearts Trip

Firefly

GomBurZa

Mallari

When I Met You in Tokyo

50th Metro Manila Film Festival

December 25, 2024 to January 7, 2025

And the Breadwinner Is...

Green Bones

Himala, Isang Musikal

The Kingdom

Strange Frequencies: Haunted Hospital

Topakk

Hold Me Close

My Future You

Uninvited

Espantaho

"Tigre ng Mindanao" (Tiger of Mindanao)

Tigre ng Mindanao (Tagalog: Tiger of Mindanao) is a 1994 action-drama film directed by Noli Salvador and Jerry Tirazona. Based on a story by Randy Santos and a screenplay by Jerry Tirazona, the film was produced by Buffalo Bill Films International. The film follows the story of Manuel Verano Jr., an engineer who entered the military service after a series of injustices.

PLOT

The film begins with establishing shots of hills, rice fields and fish ponds that showcase the abundance of natural resources in Mindanao. Right after the opening credits, there were some men overlooking a wide expanse of land.

One of them declares that the property will soon to be under the ownership of Mayor Galvez (Roldan Aquino). Blueprints of the said property are then handed over by an architect to the mayor, who plans to build a subdivision and a shopping complex.

On a beach, three of the mayor's cohorts are having a drinking spree. They ogle at a lady coming out of the water. The woman, named Monica (Cristina Gonzales), is approaching a man taking shelter under a makeshift hut. This man is Engineer Manuel Verano Jr. (Jess Sanchez), her fiancé. Manuel singled-handedly beat the inebriated trio that harassed Monica. 

The town is plagued with violence. Three men assassinated a passerby they had addressed as Kapitan (village chieftain). The noise from the gunshots caught the attention of Captain Mario (Jess Lapid Jr.) and Sergeant Romano (Nick Romano), who happened to be sharing a meal at an open-air eatery. They killed the gunmen in a shootout.

Monica's mother (Perla Bautista) is complaining to Monica that Mayor Galvez pressures them to sell their family's land to him. Monica expressed worry that the mayor does not stop until he gets what he wants.

At the Verano residence, Manuel Sr. (Bert Olivar) and Manuel Jr. agreed that they will not sell their property to the mayor. Lando (Derick Hizon), the younger son, told his brother that he and his father can manage.

The father told him to focus on his studies instead. Unbeknownst to Manuel Sr., Lando had impregnated his girlfriend Naida (Isabel Granada).

Manuel visited Monica in her house and informed her that he is going back to the construction site in Polomolok the next morning. He will come back after a month to prepare for their wedding.

Captain Mario, Monica's brother, arrived and greeted Manuel. During a brief chat, it was revealed that Manuel originally wished to become a soldier. As an obedient son, Manuel pursued a career in engineering to heed his father's wish.

Near the construction site, a group of soldiers led by Colonel Sacramento (Tony Ferrer) got entangled in a crossfire with rebels. Manuel admiringly observed the encounter from afar using his surveying tripod. Right after the encounter, Manuel greeted the victorious military leader. He called Colonel Sacramento his "idol."

In the aftermath of another clash between soldiers and rebels, Manuel exchanged pleasantries with an unnamed sergeant (George Estregan Jr. in a guest role). The latter informed Manuel that Colonel Sacramento has been promoted to the rank of a general.

A convoy of vehicles made a surprise visit to Mayor Galvez's house. It carried General Sacramento, who is revealed to be a corrupt ally of the mayor. The general's retinue is led by right-hand man Rigor (Romy Diaz) and a certain Major Sta. Maria.

General Sacramento provided the mayor with rogue insurgents under his employ, so that he can terrorize continue his reign of terror over the people. Rigor introduced these bandits, who have peculiar names such as Kojak, Kumander Aswang, Bondying, and Dodong Putol of Romblon.

Meanwhile, the chief of municipal police and some of the mayor's henchmen are coercing Monica's mother to sell the property for 150,000 pesos. She was adamant, only to change her mind after one of the henchmen tried to stab Monica.

Manuel Sr. remained unshaken, much to Mayor Galvez's dismay. The mayor was so disappointed that he vented his ire on the chief of police, who got slapped on the face. General Sacramento offered to help and asked Rigor to take charge in solving the mayor's problem.

Manuel took a bus to go home (with the song "I'll Be Home for Christmas" playing in the background). He was attending the wedding of Lando and Naida. On Mayor Galvez's behest, Kumander Aswang and the rest of Sacramento's bandits massacred almost everyone in the wedding reception. 

Manuel Sr., Lando and Naida were among the casualties. A few days later at the cemetery, the lone eyewitness to the bloodshed approached Manuel and suggested for him to seek help from the authorities.

Monica and her family took refuge in the house of Uncle Ponso (Pons de Guzman). Captain Mario got upset because Monica and their mother did not inform him about the incident. With the help of a few of his men, a vengeful Captain Mario broke into the mayor's house and forcibly retrieved the document.

Captain Mario told Manuel to consider entering the military service, since the latter's childhood dream was to become a soldier. Six months later, Manuel is already accepted into the service with the rank of lieutenant. 

A montage showcased Manuel's exploits during the counterinsurgency efforts. His acts of valor earned him the moniker Tigre ng Mindanao (Tiger of Mindanao). Captain Mario asked Lieutenant Verano to embark on a secret mission to weed out the corrupt elements in their hometown. Manuel saw this an opportunity to take revenge on the people who killed his father and brother.

Although Manuel succeeded in eliminating some of these elements, Monica was kidnapped by the others. Manuel broke into General Sacramento's lair alone, but was captured by Rigor's men. General Sacramento convinced him to join the gang.

Manuel's refusal was reciprocated with acts of torture. Two of General Sacramento's bandits tried to execute Manuel, but a concealed knife in his boots enabled him to reverse the dire situation. While trying to escape, Manuel was shot by one of the bandits and fell into a river. 

From a distant river bank, Sergeant Romano saw and rescued an unconscious Manuel. Later in the hospital, the soldiers assigned to Manuel's security detail were flirting with the nurses. Manuel regained his consciousness and eluded the distracted soldiers.

Manuel proceeded to the house where the kidnappers brought Monica. The soldiers, led by Captain Mario, were also on their way to this place. They gunned down all the kidnappers.

However, Monica was shot by one of the kidnappers and died on Manuel's arms. Captain Mario came too late and was left grief-stricken about the fate of his sister. Manuel left in a nonchalant manner.

Still physically weakened by the events, Manuel wandered into a rebel camp. One of the rebels, Ka Lita (Chai Romero), nursed him back to health. Despite his ideological differences with the rebel leader (Dan Fernandez), Manuel became a rebel himself to fulfill his quest for justice.

Captain Mario (Jess Lapid Jr.) and Manuel Verano (Jess Sanchez)

Photo Credit: Cinema One / Buffalo Bill Films Interational /  YouTube

Captain Mario informed his men regarding Manuel's AWOL status. General Sacramento asked Major Sta. Maria to communicate with a certain Kumander Brix. Brix and his fellow rogue insurgents were supposed to kill Manuel, but they were slain by Manuel instead. Manuel later finally took revenge on Kumander Aswang and company.

Captain Mario tried to arrest Manuel for putting law on his hands. Their heated discussion about inequality and rule of law did not end favorably. Manuel proceeded to take revenge on Mayor Galvez. Captain Mario and his men followed him. One by one, Captain Mario and Manuel killed their adversaries. 

In the final confrontation, General Sacramento fell onto the ground after getting shot by Manuel. Captain Mario's arrival at the scene distracted Manuel, allowing General Sacramento to shoot Manuel. Captain Mario then shot General Sacramento. A wounded Manuel surrendered. He agreed to be taken to the camp to answer for his offenses against military code of conduct.

Full Movie: Cinema One / YouTube

Lyrics from "Mga Awiting Batibot," Part 1: "Kung Gusto Mong Sumaya" and "Abakada sa Awit at Senyas"

A few weeks ago, we posted an article about the television soundtrack Mga Awiting Batibot.

The following will be part of a series of companion articles, each individually focusing on selected tracks

The original Filipino lyrics, an English translation, and a few notes are provided in each article.

For this article, the focus will be on the songs Kung Gusto Mong Sumaya (Tagalog: If You Want to Have Fun) and Abakada sa Awit at Senyas (Tagalog: Alphabet in Song and Gestures).

Photo Credit: Wazzup Pilipinas

Kung Gusto Mong Sumaya (Tagalog: If You Want to Have Fun)

Kung gusto mong sumaya, kung gusto mong sumigla

Igalaw mo (4x), igalaw ang iyong ulo

Kung gusto mong sumaya, kung gusto mong sumigla

Igalaw mo (4x), igalaw ang iyong paa

Kung gusto mong sumaya, kung gusto mong sumigla

Igalaw mo (4x),  igalaw mo ang mga kamay

Kung gusto mong sumaya, kung gusto mong sumigla

Igalaw mo (4x), igalaw buong katawan mo

ENGLISH TRANSLATION:

If you want to have fun, if you want to be energetic

Move your (4x), move your head

If you want to have fun, if you want to be energetic

Move your (4x), move your feet

If you want to have fun, if you want to be energetic

Move your (4x), move your hands

If you want to have fun, if you want to be energetic

Move your (4x), move your whole body

Abakada sa Awit at Senyas (Tagalog: Alphabet in Song and Gestures).

Halina't pag-aralan, itong abakada

Bigkasin ninyo at isesenyas ko

A ... B ... K ... D ... E

Ituloy na natin, sa awit tapusin

Ang abakada, kaydali pala

G ... H ... I ... L ... M

Sa senyas pala ay kayang-kaya

Na makanta ang abakada

N ... NG ... O ... P ... R

Ituloy na natin, sa awit tapusin

Ang abakada, kaydali pala

S ... T ... U ... W ... Y

Kaysarap awitin, abakada natin

Kung may sumesenyas at may bumibigkas

ENGLISH TRANSLATION:

Come and let's study, this alphabet

Pronounce and I will gesure

A ... B ... K ... D ... E

Let's continue, end it with song

The alphabet, so easy indeed

G ... H ... I ... L ... M

With gestures by the way, you can really do 

To sing the alphabet

N ... NG ... O ... P ... R

Let's continue, end it with song

The alphabet, so easy indeed

S ... T ... U ... W ... Y

NOTES:

In 1939, the Abakada alphabet was adopted for the Tagalog-based Wikang Pambansa (now Filipino).

When enumerating each consonant in the "indigenized" Latin alphabet, it is always pronounced with an ⟨-a⟩ suffix. For instance, "ba", "ka", etc. This approach is also the foundation for the nomenclature of the Abakada alphabet.

In 1987, the Abakada alphabet has since been superseded by the adoption of the Filipino alphabet. The Filipino alphabet has additional eight letters and repositioned letter K.

Movies That Mark 30th Year in October 2024

At least nine Filipino movies were released in theaters in October 1994. At present, some of these movies can be viewed on YouTube, while others are occasionally aired on free television.


Si Ayala at si Zobel
Pedrito Masangkay: Walang Bakas Na Iiwan
The Secrets of Sarah Jane: Sana'y Mapatawad Mo
Lab Kita, Bilib Ka Ba?
Separada
Marami Ka Pang Kakaining Bigas
Ging, Gang, Gooly Giddiyap: I Love You, Daddy
Batang Lansangan
Talahib at Rosas


Details of each mentioned title follow.

Si Ayala at si Zobel

Original Release Date: October 05, 1994

Production Company: OctoArts Films

MAIN CAST

Anjo Yllana    ...    Ayala

Ogie Alcasid    ...    Zobel

Babalu    ...    Soriano

Janet Arnaiz    ...    Jannet

Jennifer Mendoza    ...    Jenny

Kier Legaspi    ...    Carlo

Michael V.    ...    Keempee

Nova Villa    ...    Lilit Chunin

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Junn P. Cabreira

Screenplay    ...    Mike Tan

Cinematography    ...    Rudy Dino

Production Design    ...    Rolly Bernardo

Editing    ...    Segundo Ramos

Musical Direction    ...    Sunny Ilacad

Executive Producer    ...    Orly R. Ilacad

NOTES:

*** The title characters are apparently inspired by Zobel de Ayala, the surname of one of the wealthiest families in the country. According to Forbes, Jaime Zobel de Ayala and his family are ranked eighth in the Philippines' 50 Richest. This aspect of the movie foreshadows a rags-to-riches plot. 

Pedrito Masangkay: Walang Bakas Na Iiwan (Tagalog: No Trace Will Be Left)

Original Release Date: October 05, 1994

Production Company: First Films

MAIN CAST

Ian Veneracion ... Pedrito Mangsakay

Andy Poe    ...    Capt. Briones

Cristina Gonzales    ...    Charing

Beth Tamayo    ...    Jennifer

Karen Timbol    ...    Torres

Dick Israel    ...    Sarmiento

Subas Herrero    ...    Jose

Perla Bautista    ...    Caridad

Michael Alano    ...    Santos

Mikee Villanueva    ...    Nurse

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Francis 'Jun' Posadas

Story and Screenplay    ...    Erwin T. Lanado

Cinematography    ...    Rosendo Buenaseda

Production Design    ...    Nesty Ramirez

Editing    ...    Rogelio Salvador

Musical Direction    ...    Marita Manuel

Executive Producer    ...    Eddie Chua and Roy Chua

The Secrets of Sarah Jane: Sana'y Mapatawad Mo (Tagalog: Hoping for Your Forgiveness)

Original Release Date: October 05, 1994

Production Company: Regal Films

MAIN CAST

Gelli De Belen    ...    Sarah Jane

Richard Gomez    ...    Bong

Jomari Yllana    ...    Francis

Karla Estrada    ...    Armie

Melissa Mendez    ...    Lisa

Ogie Diaz    ...    Don

Monti Tirasol    ...    Jet

Candy Pangilinan    ...    Regina

Jun Palatiao    ...    Isanay

Robert Aviles    ...    Robert

Juan Flavier    ...    himself

Sarah Jane Salazar    ...    as herself

Justo C. Justo    ...    as himself

Al Tantay    ...    Roland

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Maryo J. Delos Reyes

Story    …    Justo C. Justo

Screenplay    ...    Jake Tordesillas

Cinematography    ...    Charlie Peralta

Production Design    ...    Benjie De Guzman and Tata Esteban

Editing    ...    George Jarlego

Musical Direction    ...    Jaime Fabregas

Executive Producer    ...    Lily Monteverde

NOTES:

*** In 1994, Sarah Jane Salazar became the second Filipino to go public with HIV. The first one was Dolzura Cortez, whose life story had been made into the 1993 film Dahil Mahal Kita (Tagalog: Because I Love You: The Dolzura Cortez Story).

Lab Kita, Bilib Ka Ba? (Tagalog: I Love You, Do You Believe?)

Original Release Date: October 12, 1994

Production Company: MovieArts Inc. and Aries Vision Productions

MAIN CAST

Robin Padilla ... Carlos / Billy

Ruffa Gutierrez ... Gemma

Charito Solis ... Chayong

Jess Lapid Jr. ... Marco

Jaclyn Jose ... Olga

Amado Cortez ... Mario

Dan Alvaro ... Alvaro

Ramon Christopher ... Boogie

Gabriel Romulo ... Romulo

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Gene 'Bo' Palomo

Screenplay    ...    Humilde 'Meek' Roxas

Production Design    ...    Tito Macatunggal

Editing    ...    Rene Tala

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer    ...    Inday Badiday

NOTES:

*** Inday Badiday, the executive producer, was more popularly known as a television talk show host. Gene 'Bo' Palomo, the director, was her life partner.

Separada (Tagalog: Separated)

 

Original Release Date: October 12, 1994

Production Company: Star Cinema

MAIN CAST

Maricel Soriano    ...    Melissa

Edu Manzano    ...    Dodie

Sharmaine Arnaiz    ...    Sandy

AiAi Delas Alas    ...    Cookie

Teresa Loyzaga    ...    Benny

Patrick Garcia    ...    Vincent

Angelica Panganiban    ...    Jenny

Eddie Rodriguez    ...    Melissa's Father

Liza Lorena    ...    Carmela

Lani Mercado    ...    Susan

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Chito S. Roño

Screenplay    ...    Ricardo Lee and Tessie Tomas

Cinematography    ...    Joe Batac

Production Design    ...    Ernest Santiago

Editing    ...    Joe Solo

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producers    ...    Charo Santos-Concio and Lily Monteverde

NOTES:

*** The movie marks the first collaboration between lead stars Maricel Soriano and Edu Manzano after the annulment of their marriage. They maintain friendly relations.

*** Maricel Soriano plays the role of Melissa Neri, an advertising executive. The co-writer, actress Tessie Tomas, used to work in the advertising industry.

*** Dance group StreetBoys are featured in a scene depicting a television commercial shoot. Chito S. Roño is the founder of StreetBoys.     

Marami Ka Pang Kakaining Bigas (Tagalog: You Have to Eat More Rice)

Original Release Date: October 19, 1994

Production Company: Viva Films

MAIN CAST

Eddie Garcia    ...    Digoy

Rustom Padilla    ...    Jude

Gloria Diaz    ...    Azon

Michelle Aldana    ...    Monette

Paquito Diaz    ...    Maj. Montero

Luz Valdez    ...    Monette's Mother

Jimmy Fabregas    ...     Monette's Father

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Jun Aristorenas

Story and Screenplay    ...    Amado Lacuesta

Cinematography    ...    Johnny Araojo

Production Design    ...    Ronnie Cruz and Jojo Magno

Editing    ...    Rene Tala

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer    ...    Vic Del Rosario Jr.

NOTES:

*** The opening credits of this 1994 feature stores that sell rice for as low as 14 pesos per kilogram. As of September 2024, average prices range from 49 to 60 pesos per kilogram. 

Ging, Gang, Gooly Giddiyap: I Love You, Daddy

Original Release Date: October 20, 1994

Production Company: Regal Films

MAIN CAST

Manilyn Reynes    ...    Star

Romnick Sarmenta    ...    Bong

Jimmy Santos    ...    Tatay Rudolf

Gina Pareño    ...    Nanay Bella

Nanette Inventor    ...    Doña Tiny

Jackie Forster    ...    Trixie

Sharon Bustamante    ...    Cindy

Eric Fructuoso    ...    Emil

Joey Marquez    ...    Don Arnaldo / King Arthur

Patricia Ann Roque    ...    Patricia

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Manny Castañeda

Story and Screenplay    ...    Joel Mercado, Jillmer Dy, and Wali Ching

Cinematography    ...    Ricardo Jacinto

Production Design    ...    Monching Escobar

Editing    ...    Edmund 'Bot' Jarlego and Efren Jarlego

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer    ...    Lily Monteverde

Batang Lansangan (Tagalog: Street Child)

Original Release Date: October 26, 1994

Production Company: Moviestars Productions

MAIN CAST

Ronnie Ricketts    ...    Rodrigo

Raymond Bagatsing    ...    Raffy

Efren Reyes Jr.    ...    Tomas Grano

Sheila Ysrael    ...    Maricris

Sunshine Cruz    ...    Perly

Bob Soler    ...    Coun. Centeno

Romy Diaz    ...    Pusoy

Janice Jurado    ...    Delia

Dinky Doo Jr.    ...    Estong

Carol Dauden    …     Alice

Ricky Rellosa    ...    Peping Hapon

Mon Tulfo    ...    Selmo

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Leonardo L. Garcia

Story ... Cora A. Cristol

Screenplay    ...    Gerry Tirazona

Cinematography    ...    Baltazar Dauz

Production Design    ...    Jonathan Gabriel

Editing    ...    Ruben Natividad

Musical Direction    ...    Mon Del Rosario

Executive Producer    ...    Victor Villegas

NOTES:

*** Mon Tulfo, a journalist, is introduced in this movie. He plays the role of a barangay chairman.

Talahib at Rosas (Tagalog: Tall Grass and Roses)

Original Release Date: October 26, 1994

Production Company: Viva Films

MAIN CAST

Cesar Montano    ...    Jacob Villapando

Anjanette Abayari    ...    Abba Jalandoni

Dante Rivero    ...    Col. Conde

Albert Martinez    ...    Mayor Jake Jalandoni

Bembol Roco    ...    Kumander Baleleng

Ramon Christopher    ...    Jamil

SELECTED CREW

Direction    ...    Jose 'Kaka' Balagtas

Story and Screenplay    ...    Humilde 'Meek' Roxas

Cinematography    ...    Ver Dauz

Production Design    ...    Sonny Valencia

Editing    ...    Renato De Leon

Musical Direction    ...    Nonong Buencamino

Executive Producer    ...    Vic Del Rosario

NOTES:

*** Albert Martinez and Cesar Montano played the role of national hero Jose Rizal in movies that were released in 1997 and 1998. Incidentally, the director is also named Jose.