WEEK 4

The students will watched the movie “Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo
Ngayon” and will write a reflection paper using the following guide
questions:

1. Describe the 19th century Philippines as described in the film.

As depicted in the film "Ganito kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon," the Philippines was a
Spanish colony during the nineteenth century. It chronicles the country's struggles to
define its cultural identity from the Spanish Revolution to the Philippine-American War.
The Philippines as depicted in the film are decent; if you have a relation with the
Spaniards or are a member of a family of Spaniards, you are considered wealthy, as is
becoming a church servant. Filipinos were afraid of the Spaniards' brutality, so some of
them sought refuge in the mountains.
Many that have been convicted or imprisoned are paraded, and some of them are killed.
Horses or "Kalesa" are used for public transportation as well.
Through the eyes of Nicolas "Kulas" Ocampo, a naive Tagalog farmer from the
provinces, and the extraordinary circumstances that led him to find himself. Theatres or
"Theatro," which is an onstage drama, and some singing, such as opera, are used as
forms of entertainment. The prevalent language at the time was Spanish, and some
Tagalogs were difficult to comprehend. Philippines enjoys trading with other countries,
especially in the areas of food and other consumables and materials. During the day,
the food is also Spanish inspired since the bulk of the food is cooked by Spaniards at
that time.
Courting at that time was also very interesting; unlike today, almost no courting takes
place, such as asking permission from the female's parents and doing chores for the
family of the one you are courting; some of these things are still performed today,
although they are very unusual to see nowadays. Schools are built in churches so that
the church can teach the children minimal information and impose discipline on the
pupils.
Because of Spain's long colonization, Filipinos have lost their sense of nationality. The
film shows not only Spaniards but even fellow Filipinos abusing the Filipinos, making the
situation even more tragic. Diding is another intriguing character. She embodies the
image of a driven Filipina who would go to any length to achieve her goals. She is
powerful, in contrast to the Maria Clara image that was popular at the time. During that
time in history, it was very common. "Kung hindi ka matutong lumamon, ikaw ang
lalamunin," she tells Kulas in one scene. She knows how to create "lamon" by taking
advantage of any chance that presents itself.
2. Based on your readings and class discussion, what can you say about the
film’s representation of the 19th century?
According to my reading, the film accurately depicts the situation in the Philippines
during the nineteenth century. Slavery and misuse of authority were also present. Being
against the government is a suicidal act, which is why revolutionary groups are very
cautious about any action they want to take. Being friendly with the priest and the
government, on the other hand, is beneficial because they will be able to assist you in
times of need. They also depicted the practice of killing prisoners and imprisoning
innocent citizens without trial, which was normal at the time because money gave you
little control. They really investigated the quality of life and the original way of life in the
Philippines during the nineteenth century, as well as the way of speaking, which is very
accurate.

3. What is the main question the film seeks to answer? What is your own
reflection based on the film and your understanding?
“Who is a Filipino?” is the main question. It is strange because the other characters,
who consider themselves to be non-Filipino and who I believe refuse to disclose
because they are afraid, turn out to be true Filipinos. One Chinese merchant, whose
name was Lim, helped Kulas, saved him, and eventually gave up his life not only for his
friend but also for the Philippines, and he was completely unaware of it.
My reflection based on the film is It is quick to say, "I'm a Filipino," but it's more difficult
to fully embody the concept. Being Filipino entails more than just physical links to the
country, tradition, or even family; it also entails recognizing ourselves as protectors of
our homeland and fellow citizens. It means being able to fight for what is right for our
country while still preserving the integrity and freedom for which our forefathers fought.
Many of our experiences and behaviors have grown. We, the Filipinos of today, are
simply going with the tide. The sense of being a "Filipino" has all but vanished. Our
society is currently experiencing several issues, like those depicted in the film, since we
choose to buy goods made in other countries over goods made in our own. As a result,
stop being a liability in our society. We must abide by the rules and submit to our
superiors. In addition, the only thing I can do for our country is pray for it. Finally, accept
your roots. One of the most important things I can do for our country is to accept our
culture.