FILMMAKER Jay Altarejos has created a new series that was inspired by the government’s order to shut down ABS-CBN’s broadcast operations.
Titled “Balangaw,” the official synopsis of the series says it is a story of eight people who bonded together even though they were separately locked down during the pandemic.
In the story, Karen (Karen Toyoshima) is a lesbian actress who has been working steadily for years at ABS-CBN as a non-contract player.
Although she has a longtime relationship, Karen believes that having a child of her own will give her a profound sense of responsibility and purpose.
After depleting her savings to undergo in vitro fertilization, ABS-CBN was shut down amid the coronavirus crisis.
Karen then finds herself under great duress for being pregnant without good prospects for the future.
“Art, film should continue its purpose to entertain the hearts, feed the mind, and nourish the soul through content that reflects the struggle of the people and offers hope amidst this catastrophic event,” Altarejos said in a statement.
“Despite the challenges, we dream and strive for a better Philippines where equality, social justice, and national democracy prevail,” he added.
Aside from Toyoshima, “Balangaw” also features Jal Galang, Tads Obach, Rap Robes, CJ Barinaga, and Mela Habijan.
The series streams every Saturday at 9 p.m. (ABS-CBN News)
