Knowledge Channel’s "Class Project: Intercollegiate Mini-Documentary Competition" has served as a haven for aspiring documentarists in highlighting Filipino values and culture and telling inspiring stories in today's society.
On its third year, the competition in partnership with ABS-CBN, DocuCentral, and Philippine Association of Communication Educators (PACE), delivered once again 10 remarkable student documentaries that viewers can now watch on iWant for free.
Amid today's uncertain times brought by the pandemic, these Class Project documentaries aim to uplift the spirits of every Filipino through inspiring stories straight from the heart.
Here are five of the must-watch “Class Project” winning mini-documentaries:
The dedication of ‘Titser Gennie’
It revolves around the story of Gennie, an Aeta teacher, whose dedication to her profession traverses heights, as she treks the trails of Sitio Tarukan daily to teach Aeta children. In the docu, she narrates her struggles and triumphs in becoming a licensed teacher. Titser Gennie, produced by students from the University of Makati, won first prize in the recent Class Project 2019.
Learn more about Pampanga’s heritage ‘Kulitan’
Also from University of Makati, this documentary shows the cultural heritage of Kapampangan’s language and pre-colonial writing system called “Kulitan.” The feature also highlights the efforts of the people working to preserve the lost art of Kulitan. For them, it’s not only an ancient writing system, but it also signifies Pampanga’s hidden legacy. Kulitan won second prize in Class Project 2019.
Witness the determination of ‘Mga Batang Anipa’
This docu is a testament to the determination of the Filipino youth to reach their dreams. It follows four children who go to school daily, traversing the surging current of the river aboard a lifesaver. Despite the risks, the students did not let the currents drown their goal of pursuing a better life for their families through education. The documentary, also from students of the University of Makati, won third prize in Class Project 2019.
Know the hardships of every Filipino farmer in ‘Binhi’
This Class Project 2019 finalist, produced by students from Palawan State University, narrates the struggles of Mang Ariel, a farmer from Taytay, Palawan, in providing for his family. Despite the hardships, he strives against all adversities to bring a bright future for his children.
The cultural significance of the betel nut in ‘City Painted in Red’
“City Painted in Red” highlights the cultural significance of chewing betel nuts or the traditional practice of northern tribes called “moma.” The red dye it leaves on the chewer signifies the rich highland tradition of Cordillerans. Despite numerous health claims about the dangers of chewing betel nuts infused with tobacco, highlanders say that it helps them in quitting smoking and has its benefits too.
Viewers can also catch more Class Project documentaries every Friday at 7:30 p.m. on Knowledge Channel. Download the iWant app or visit iwant.ph to stream more acclaimed documentaries for free.