When it comes to Filipino politics, there’s a captivating tale to be told. Ramona S. Diaz’s “And So It Begins” is an accompanying documentary to her acclaimed film, “A Thousand Cuts.” This time, the focus is on the 2022 Philippine election and Vice President Leni Robredo’s bid for office. While the film provides a glimpse into the country’s contemporary politics and the groundswell of support for Robredo, it falls short in delivering the narrative depth and aesthetic intensity needed for such a vital subject matter.
A Grassroots Movement in Motion
After a contentious vice presidency and with a strong political background, Leni Robredo embarks on her campaign, raising awareness through grassroots activism that wears the color pink as a symbol of solidarity. The sheer scale of her rallies, captured from stunning overhead shots, showcases the magnitude of the support she garners. Robredo’s events radiate joy and inclusivity, often featuring performances by queer and drag artists. In an era of nationalistic strongmen, her camp’s buoyant unity feels nothing short of revolutionary. However, the film merely scratches the surface of this political dynamic, leaving much unexplored.
A Missed Opportunity for Deeper Understanding
Aside from a few scenes addressing the silencing of Filipino journalists, the focus of “And So It Begins” rarely delves into the intricate inner workings that underpin political movements. It does, however, shed light on the perils of online harassment and disinformation. This detour offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by journalists who speak truth to power. Nevertheless, the film fails to provide a meaningful exploration of why a candidate like Robredo becomes a target in the first place.
Navigating the Complexities
While Robredo’s opposition to Duterte’s approach paints a target on her back, the film hesitates to fully address her stance on key social issues. It sidesteps the dissonance between her support from queer voters and her opposition to same-sex marriage (despite endorsing civil unions) or her position against abortion despite her vocal feminism. Instead, the film tends to focus solely on Robredo’s amiable presence, transforming it into a feature-length campaign advertisement.
A Secondary Storyline Emerges
As Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., son of the former Filipino dictator, emerges as a major opponent, the film takes a peculiar turn. Propaganda saturates the television and online platforms, captivating its intended audience. While this storyline presents a fascinating subset of ideas, it remains a minor subplot, overshadowed by Robredo’s narrative. Her perspective on the topic is never explored in-depth, leaving viewers craving a more comprehensive examination.
Just the Tip of the Political Iceberg
Although “And So It Begins” presents a play-by-play of real events surrounding the 2022 Philippine election, it merely scratches the surface. It functions more as an introductory course for those unfamiliar with the subject matter, adhering to a three-act structure akin to a Hollywood production. However, as a political inquiry, it fails to capture the profound impact, complexity, and emotional depth of the enthralling world of Filipino politics.
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