Documentary | 96 min | 2024 | Philippines
Language: Filipino
Subtitles: English
The abduction of Jonas Burgos in 2007 was brazen – done at noontime in a crowded mall. As his family launched their search, a car plate brought them face to face with powerful forces. Despite insurmountable barriers, anonymous informants have dropped leads and even provided the last known photo of Jonas in captivity. Edita, the 80-year old mother, and her filmmaker son lead the long and arduous fight for justice. Presented through testimonials of their lawyer, a reporter, a former Justice Secretary and Human Rights Commission Chair, and witnesses who agreed to appear on condition of anonymity, combined with animation and never-before-seen footage of the family’s relentless search, the documentary film weaves the stories together to uncover the truths, however painful, about the brother’s disappearance.
For 25 years, JL BURGOS has worked on short films, experimental videos, public service announcements, web series, and a TV show in various capacities. His body of work focuses on human rights. His filmography includes: full-length documentaries “Portraits of Mosquito Press” (2015) and “Han-Ayan” (2017), full-length film “Oras De Peligro,” stage plays “Tumindig Ka Aking Saksi” and “Salvage Eman,” and “Ano Ang Aming Kasalanan” and “Pagkatapos Nito” music videos. He is the youngest brother of farmer- activist Jonas Burgos who was forcibly taken by state forces. Since his brother’s abduction in 2007, Burgos has been helping spread awareness about enforced disappearance. Burgos is the proponent of Stop The Attacks, a campaign by artists for artists who have been victims of constant red-tagging and state harassment. Burgos is currently the Chairperson of Surian ng Sining, a national cultural institute of artists, writers, and cultural workers.
In an effort to get closer to his grandparents, the shy grandson of two prominent activists confronts their past, revealing a family legacy that is linked to his country’s history.
This year’s FRAMES short film competition is focused on discovering and supporting young filmmakers from the Philippines who are deeply committed to human rights.
In this edition of SPOTLIGHT, the festival features a carefully curated selection of Southeast Asian short films.