The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Society of Filipino Archivists for Film (SOFIA), in cooperation with ABS-CBN Film Restoration Sagip Pelikula, Foundation University, Silliman University, and the Dumaguete City Tourism Office, presented a lecture and screenings from July 5 to 7 in Dumaguete City to honor the birth centennial of the late National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, Eddie Romero. Held in his birthplace, the event featured a series of public lectures and screenings that showcased Eddie Romero’s visionary storytelling genius, offering the public an opportunity to revisit his restored films.

A Celebration of Legacy and Vision

The event, held in Romero’s birthplace, Dumaguete City, showcased his visionary storytelling genius through a series of public lectures and screenings of his restored films. Born on July 7, 1924, Eddie Romero was a towering figure in Filipino cinema, celebrated for his work as a screenwriter, film director, and producer. His career, which spanned three generations of filmmakers, was marked by a dedication to the art and business of cinema, earning him the title of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts in 2003.

Engaging Lectures and Screenings

The celebration kicked off on July 5 at the Audio-Visual Theater I in Silliman University with lectures, screenings, and talkback sessions. Filmmaker, film historian, and chairman of UNESCO Memory of the World Committee-Philippines, Prof. Nick Deocampo, presented “The Life and Works of Eddie Romero: The Significance of Film as a Documentary Heritage through the UNESCO Memory of the World Program.” Additionally, Mr. Leo P. Katigbak, head of Film Archives & Restoration at ABS-CBN Corporation, delved into “Film Restoration.” The first day of the two-day screening started with a showing of Eddie Romero’s groundbreaking historical classic, “Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon? (1976),” followed by an engaging talkback session.

On July 6, the Luce Auditorium at Silliman University hosted lectures centered on film restoration and archival. Assoc. Prof. Rosemarie Roque, chief of PUPCHS (Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Center for Heritage Studies) and president of the SOFIA Board, presented on “Audiovisual Archival Advocacy Work.” Additionally, Mr. Jeffrey Sonora, supervising head of FPJ Archives and SOFIA board member, discussed “Film Restoration.” The day also included a screening of “Kamakalawa (1981),” a film that delves into the prehistoric folklore of the Philippines with elements of religion and philosophy, followed by a talkback session. In the evening, “Aguila (1980)” was screened at the Pantawan People’s Park, Rizal Boulevard.

A Lasting Tribute

Concluding the three-day celebration, a Centennial Bust and Eddie Romero Exhibit were unveiled on July 7 at The Presidencia in Dumaguete City Hall Compound. The exhibit and bust forged and solidified as a formal recognition of Romero’s legacy and influence in Philippine cinema, ensuring his work is remembered and remains relevant for years to come.

The NCCA’s celebration of Eddie Romero’s birth centennial highlighted its dedication to advancing and promoting Filipino culture and arts, including recognizing National Artists who have significantly contributed to Philippine arts and culture. Film enthusiasts, cultural advocates, educators, and the general public participated in honoring the birth centennial of NA Eddie Romero.