MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) proudly announces the premiere of the digitally restored version of ‘Sisa’ (1951), directed by National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Gerardo de Leon. This special screening is set for October 27, 2025 (Monday) at the Metropolitan Theater, in celebration of the World Day for Audiovisual Heritage. This restoration, undertaken by  the Philippine Film Archive, forms part of the FDCP’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the country’s cinematic heritage. This event also marks the agency’s second restored film premiere for 2025.

The premiere is organized under ‘Mga Hiyas ng Sineng Filipino’, a collaborative program of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) dedicated to bringing restored and classic Filipino films back to theaters. 

The screening also affirms the FDCP's belief  that preserving films keeps our shared cultural memory and national identity alive for generations to come.

Based on the tragic figure from Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, Sisa tells the story of a mother’s desperate search for her missing sons, Crispin and Basilio, ultimately leading to her own demise. Beyond its heartbreaking narrative, the film highlights the enduring strength and resilience of women in the face of adversity. 

The screening will be followed by a talkback session to discuss the film’s historical and cultural significance, its representation of women’s stories, its impact on shaping the cinematic language of Philippine film history, and the importance of preserving these films as historical records.

Premiere Program Schedule (October 27, 2025):

3:30 PM Registration of Public Audience and Opening of Doors

4:00 PM Welcome address and Overview of the Film Restoration

4:15 PM Screening of The Restored Sisa

6:15 PM Talkback

7:00 PM End of Program

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