As part of the Gender and Development-Focal Point System’s (GAD-FPS) continued promotion on the relevance of women on empowerment, gender equality, and issues confronting women in the agri-fishery sector, employees from the Philippine Council for Agriculture and Fisheries (PCAF) conducted a virtual screening and discussion on the film titled “Sol Searching” on July 2, 2021.

The film highlights issues and challenges being faced by women, how they responded to these issues that feature the rights and roles of women, as well as the role they play in our society. 

The story revolves around Sol Dolores, a grade school teacher who teaches farming in her community. When Sol died, her family went the extra mile to source out fundings for her burial. Aside from issues and concerns in gender and agriculture, the film also underscored various problems in the society faced by Sol and how she brought change to her environment despite her misforgivings.

In her opening message, PCAF OIC Executive Director Julieta Opulencia thanked Pinoy Indie Films Road Show (PIFRS) for bringing quality films that not only promotes local film makers but also depicts the issues being faced by women in their families and society in a creative way.

Meanwhile, Karen Salutan- Founder/Owner of PIFRS Multimedia Distribution Services who was also present in the event thanked PCAF for providing an avenue where they can promote locally produced independent films.

“I am advocating the promotion of indie films because most of the time, they are underpromoted and unnoticed due to the boom of commercially produced films which have more funding and have famous actors and actresses as part of the cast,” Salutan added.

After the virtual screening, a question and answer session was conducted where PCAF employees shared their thoughts and reflections on the film which was followed by a closing message from Conchita del Rosario, representative of the GAD-FPS and OIC Assistant Chief of the Partnership Development Division.

In her message, del Rosario reminded the participants of the objective of GAD which is to empower the underprivileged, disadvantaged, marginalized, and vulnerable groups.

“We should give equitable parts in these sectors especially with the policy resolutions that we make,” she added. | CCB