The River in Between Noodles

I Bannag ta Pansì Batil Potun

a documentary film by jerome dulin

LOGLINE

Couple farmer, Eddie and Marlyn Calimag, from Tuguegarao City braze from the heat waves and typhoons with their cows as they cross the river to produce the ingredients for the famous local delicacy- Pansi Batil Potun.

SYNOPSIS

The documentary “River/People in Noodle” explores the journey of pansit batil patung, a traditional dish from Tuguegarao City. The film delves into the evolution of pansit batil patung, highlighting the changing ingredients produced by local farmers used over time.

In this exploration, we join farmers Eddie and Marlyn Calimag as they meticulously cultivate the unique local ingredients, including kabatiti and indigenous vegetables. We witness their tireless efforts as they cross rivers with their cows, till the land throughout various seasons, and eventually harvest their produce. Their dedication ensures the availability of these essential ingredients.

The changing climate impacts the farming systems of local farmers, affecting some of the original ingredients of pansit batil patung to be extinct.

DIRECTOR'S STATEMENT

In the depths of despair, when all seems lost and gone, it is then that we truly recognize the profound value food holds in our lives!

Food, a fundamental human necessity, transcends mere sustenance; it weaves intricate tales of our environment, our social constructs, and our connection to the world around us. The transformative journey of a dish like Pansí Batil Potun, from humble sustenance to a symbol of status, serves as a poignant mirror reflecting the state of humanity and the health of our planet.

Regrettably, in recent times, our food systems have come under siege due to the ever-changing social and atmospheric climates spurred by human activities. These adverse changes not only scar the environment but also inflict deep wounds on the lives of countless individuals. The disconnect between many people and the origins of their food, the arduous labor involved in its cultivation, and the long periods of growth under the sun and rain, further compounds the problem.

This project, born from a desire to magnify the state of humanity, seeks to shed light on our relationship with the environment and the widening social chasm brought about by climate change. Through the lens of human rights and dignity, we aim to create films and engage in film-related activities that spark meaningful discourse and generate ideas capable of addressing pressing contextual issues.

Our ultimate goal with Climate Story Lab is to amplify the voices of those directly impacted by flooding and climate change in our region. We believe that by sharing their stories, not on their behalf but alongside them, we can foster a deeper understanding of the experiences behind dishes like Pansí Batil Potun and the profound impact climate change has on their lives.

By exploring the intricate relationship between food, environment, and social status, we hope to evoke empathy, provoke thought, and inspire action towards creating a more sustainable and equitable future for all. For when food, a basic necessity of life, is threatened, it is a clarion call for humanity to come together and act before it’s too late.

PRODUCER'S STATEMENT

The environment and a society’s culture are intricately intertwined, coexisting and influencing each other.

In Cagayan, various cultural activities are centered around the river, such as the “ananud,” a practice of floating a boat-like structure with food offerings for the ancestors, and “gulgul,” the ritual of bathing in the river after attending a funeral. These cultural practices highlight the deep connection between the environment and the people of Cagayan.

In recent years, Cagayan has experienced severe flooding, particularly in 2018 and 2021. These floods have been attributed to the Magat Dam, which is seen as a symbol of both progress and destruction. The 2021 flood revealed the hidden damage inflicted upon nature, as thousands of logs were carried away by the floodwaters. The devastation caused by the floods has led to questions about accountability and the need to protect the environment.

However, questioning those in power, whether it be the local government or the dam management, can be a dangerous endeavor due to their strong connections and influence in the region. To address this issue, an indirect approach is needed to raise awareness about the importance of environmental protection and hold accountable those responsible for environmental damage. Film is one such approach that can create a discourse and promote a deeper understanding of the situation.

Jerome’s project is an excellent example of using film to create change. His focus on the Pansí Batil Potun, a local delicacy made from ingredients found in the Cagayan River and its tributaries, highlights the connection between the environment and the community’s culinary traditions. The destruction of the river has led to a decline in these ingredients, which serves as a tangible reminder of the impact of environmental degradation.

Through this project, Jerome aims to make people reconsider the importance of protecting the Cagayan River and generally the environment. By showcasing the abundance of the river in the past, the project can inspire a sense of nostalgia and a desire to do something for the world against climate change and instill a environmental consciousness to its audience.

Ultimately, Jerome’s project serves as a powerful tool for advocacy and environmental education, empowering people to demand accountability and work towards a sustainable future for the Cagayan River, its surrounding communities and the world.

Still Footages

These photographs provide a glimpse into the visual elements and atmosphere of the documentary, showcasing key moments, subjects, and settings that will be explored in the final film.