Philippine Martial Law Film Screening 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is Martial Law?

  "Martial law refers to the replacement of civil rule by military rule. This may be characterized by curfews, the dispensation of military tribunal rulings on civilians, and the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus. The writ of habeas corpus, which in Latin refers to “having the body”, is a citizen’s protection against unlawful imprisonment. This is suspended in times of crisis to expedite justice" (Martial Law Museum).

• Why is it important to talk about today?

  Human rights violations and extrajudicial killings are still on-going in the Philippines under President Bongbong Marcos, the son of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. who proclaimed Martial Law in 1972, and Vice President Sara Duterte, the daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte who spearheaded the violent War on Drugs in 2016 (Karapatan).

• Why would I want to join this film screening?

  The film screening is for anyone who is keen to learn about the Martial Law Era, wants to share their experience during the Martial Law (or something similar) through group discussion, wants to meet new people, wants to watch a Philippine film/documentary, or just wants to have snacks.

  We will also kōrero/talk about how this still affects Filipino communities in the PH and abroad, and how this connects to multiple issues (including Aotearoa/NZ and worldwide).

  This event welcomes Filipinos/non-Filipinos from all walks of life who are willing to learn, listen, or contribute (LGBTQ+ friendly).

• I want to join but I'm from Tāmaki Makaurau (AKL) / Ōtautahi (CHCH) / The Philippines.

  We will stream the film through Zoom for anyone outside Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington (including internationally). However, there may be internet and other technical difficulties during the event itself. Also, please make sure to select the "Online" ticket option when RSVPing.

• How much is the ticket?

  The film screening is free but we appreciate koha for the venue/snacks/donations to some Philippine organisations listed below.

• I can't attend. How can I support?

  • Please spread the word via social media stories, reposting, wheatpasting, or sharing to people who don't use social media (click here to share/repost on Instagram).

  • If you click RSVP, there is an option to donate without getting a ticket. We sincerely appreciate this.

  • If you click "Contact host" below, feel free to send us your email address and we can email resources after the event, e.g.:

    • Remembering the victims (Tagalog | English)

    • A few organisations in the PH

    • "Digital Community Board" on Signal messaging app (to increase ongoing support between community members outside of marches/events)

    • More to come (incl links on the top of this page)

• Who are the event organisers?

  This event is organised by ordinary Filipino tauiwi/migrant/diaspora community members who support or are affiliated with (social media pages listed below):

  • Anakbayan Aotearoa (FB | IG)

  • Aotearoa Philippines Solidarity (FB | IG)

  • BAYAN Aotearoa New Zealand (FB | IG)

  • Gabriela Aotearoa NZ (FB | IG)

  • Migrante Aotearoa New Zealand (FB | IG)

  We stand in solidarity with indigenous peoples in Aotearoa/NZ (Toitū Te Tiriti), the Philippines, and across the world facing injustice.