October 31, 2025 — Iloilo, Philippines | Showcasing its Gala Premiere last 28th of October at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Iloilo, Babaylan screens the work of various animators, producers, editors, and researchers from the teams of Mulave Studios, Inc. and West Visayas State University. Co-directed by Dr. Joyce Christine Colon of the WVSU – Social Science Department and co-directed by Professor Karen Alinor Dumpit of the WVSU – EMC Division, Babaylan draws inspiration on the rich tapestry and narratives of the local history and culture of Babaylans in Panay.
“Step into the world of the babaylans, guardians of nature and healers of the Visayan people. Follow Estrella Bangotbanwa as she takes part in the panaet ritual and unveils the sacred four pillars that shaped our ancestors’ beliefs. Immerse yourself in a visually stunning and story-rich journey that breathes life into the intangible heritage of our people — their spirituality, wisdom, and deep harmony with the natural world.“Rooted in the deep cultural memory of the Visayan people, Babaylan stands as a landmark work in Philippine animation — a film that bridges local history, artistry, and education. Produced through the collaboration of Mulave Studios, Inc. and West Visayas State University, the project celebrates how animation can serve as both a creative and cultural medium, bringing indigenous narratives into the contemporary lens.
According to Dr. Joyce Christine Colon, Babaylan aims to preserve and promote Philippine intangible culture by making it accessible to today’s audiences. By translating local traditions and folklore into animation, the film promotes creative storytelling that highlights appreciation, preservation, and continuity of heritage. Animation, she shared, allows for powerful visual expression — vividly illustrating rituals, myths, and cultural values that textbooks alone cannot fully convey.
At its heart, Babaylan is a story of collaboration and community. It brought together a diverse team of animators, writers, musicians, and voice talents who poured their skill and passion into every frame. From concept artist Gaela Marie Brebano, who helped shape the film’s visual identity, to Animation Director Paolo Martin Dela Cruz and the Mulave Studios team, each creative contributed to building a film rich with authenticity and imagination.
Complementing the visual artistry is an original musical score by Steve Magbanua, Nick Dalida, Renz Cabalino An, and John Mikael Daulo, whose compositions lend emotional depth and atmosphere to the story’s spiritual tone. These local musicians played an integral role in bringing the film’s themes of faith, nature, and community to life.
The production also benefited from the strong support of the Municipality of Tubungan, led by Mayor Roquito Tacsagon and former Mayor Vicente Gargaritano Jr., as well as from local residents who generously shared their oral histories. The team expressed deep gratitude to community elder Tatay Rodolfo Tabuloc Sr., whose stories of the babaylan guided much of the narrative’s authenticity and heart.
To ensure the film’s historical and linguistic accuracy, the team worked closely with experts and consultants including Dr. Randy Madrid, Prof. Ren Trance, Dr. Jureca Failanga, Prof. Eliodora Dimzon, and Mr. Emmanuel Lerona. Their insights grounded the film’s creative process in research and cultural integrity.
After nearly two years in development, Babaylan finally premiered at the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Iloilo, gathering students, cultural advocates, and creatives from across the region. The premiere was more than just a screening — it was a celebration of collective effort, cultural pride, and the growing role of Philippine animation in heritage storytelling.
“Babaylan is our way of giving back,” Dr. Colon shared. “It’s our contribution to keeping alive the voices of our ancestors — to ensure that their wisdom, spirituality, and stories continue to inspire future generations.”
Through projects like Babaylan, Philippine animation continues to evolve beyond entertainment. It becomes a vessel for cultural continuity — one that honors tradition while embracing modern creativity. By fusing artistry, education, and digital innovation, Babaylan reminds us that our roots remain a source of endless imagination and inspiration.
Read the full message from Dr. Joyce Christine Colon on Facebook.
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