ORIGINAL SHORT FILM ON PINOY FOOD AIRS OCT. 25-30

Culinary and performing arts expert-practitioners have collaborated to showcase the rich tradition and heritage of Filipino cuisine and its role in the Filipino cultural identity. The original 30-minute film titled “Estamos Llenos” will be aired Oct. 25-30.

A chronicle of the evolution of local gastronomy, the short is inspired by the precolonial discoveries of Italian scholar and explorer Antonio Pigafetta, as told through “Pigafetta’s Philippine Picnic: Culinary Encounters During the First Circumnavigation, 1519-1522 (2021),” the newly published book by renowned food historian Felice Sta. Maria.

“Estamos Llenos” was written by Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature hall of famer and multiawarded playwright Layeta Bucoy. It was directed by Gawad Buhay! Philstage awardee and Benilde Theater Arts chair Tuxqs Rutaquio.

Lessons

The story follows the lessons learned by sisters Metida and Destraza, who, amid the pandemic, ventured into the booming home-cooked food business after closing down several family-owned bars. The movie demonstrates how to concoct some of the most delectable Filipino delicacies such as pancit habhab, lumpiang Shanghai, ginataang bilo-bilo, sugba na isda with dipping sauces, and arroz Valenciana.

This project was produced by the School of Design and Arts-Arts and Culture Cluster and School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management-Culinary Arts of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.

“Estamos Llenos” is free and open to the public. It will air every 6 p.m. on Oct. 25-30 on the official Facebook page of Benilde Arts and Culture Cluster (facebook.com/benildearts/) and Chefs in Progress (facebook. com/chefsinprogress/).