In tune with current events, comedy-drama short film Classroom 2022 encourages the public to vote wisely in the upcoming elections.
The five minute-eight second piece follows Grade 10 Section Maharlika students, who are finally in face-to-face classes after the pandemic. On the first week, their adviser Ms. Pallan announced a classroom election that sparked everyone’s interest. The characters nominated potential candidates, including themselves. Platforms and goals, plus distinct characteristics and beliefs were unveiled – all instrumental for the future of class.
Classroom 2022 depicts the Philippine political environment and reflects the significant role of citizens during one of the most crucial events in the country.
Created by 20-year-old student-filmmaker Diana Galang, a Digital Filmmaking (DFilm) Program student of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, she zoomed into the classroom setting to remind the audience of the importance of each person’s role in the upcoming elections.
“Elections should not be taken for granted; the future of the Philippines is still in our hands,” she reiterated. “Let us raise our standards when it comes to electing rightful leaders. We must learn how to evaluate our candidates and know who is the most qualified to lead us. The power of our vote could help change the next six years of our lives.”
Initially written in June 2021, a week after Galang registered to vote, Classroom 2022 is a manifestation of the young artist’s dedication to participate in creating a change in the country. With the help and support of her sister Angelica Louise, she was able to build the personalities of the cast.
“For years, I have always kept my mouth shut when it comes to political issues because I simply thought that being neutral was the safest way to live in this world,” she confessed. “However, during the time of oppression and incompetence, I’ve come to realize how important it is to practice my democratic rights of being able to express myself – the desire to fight for what is right drove me to create stories that tackle these issues. Moreover, the past two years of this pandemic also made me see how much we truly deserve better.”
“From the eyes of a first-time voter, I have high hopes for the Philippines and this is what I want to share with the viewers since all it takes for that change to happen is to be involved in such matters,” she added.
Classroom 2022 was recognized with the “So Short But So Good – Best Picture” and “You Have to Watch This – Fan Favorite” top awards in the Super Shorts Category of the recently concluded IKLI Super Short Film Festival. Launched by Ticket2Me, an independent creator monetization platform in the Philippines, it is in partnership with the Movement for Good Governance (MGG), Youth Leadership for Democracy (YouthLead PH), YouthVote Philippines, and Rappler.