Wellington Hosts "Liway" Film Screening to Remember Philippine Martial Law Victims and Discuss Ongoing Relevance

A free film screening of "Liway" will be held in Wellington, New Zealand, and online on September 20, 2026, commemorating victims of Philippine Martial Law and fostering discussion on its enduring impact on Filipino communities globally. The event aims to educate and facilitate dialogue on human rights and historical remembrance.

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Filipinos and allies in New Zealand and worldwide are invited to a special film screening of "Liway" on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 1pm to 5pm NZST. Hosted at Trades Hall in Wellington, with an accessible online stream, this free event aims to foster remembrance and discussion surrounding the Philippine Martial Law era.

The featured film, "Liway," is an award-winning local production from director Kip Oebanda, drawing from his personal experience. The narrative centres on a mother, Day, who uses storytelling to protect her young son from the harsh realities of their makeshift prison during Martial Law, emphasizing themes of familial love and women empowerment, as noted by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Institute for Labor Studies. The film garnered the Special Jury Commendation and the Audience Choice Award at the 14th Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

Beyond the screening, the event serves as a platform to remember victims of human rights violations during Martial Law and to engage in a "National Situationer and Group Discussion." Organizers plan to explore how this historical period continues to affect Filipino communities both in the Philippines and abroad, and its connections to broader issues, including those relevant to Aotearoa/New Zealand. An "Open Door Policy" will be in place, allowing attendees to leave at any time due to the potentially sensitive nature of the topics discussed.

The film screening is offered free of charge, with attendees encouraged to provide koha (donations) to support the venue, snacks, and various Philippine organizations. The event is a collaborative effort by Gabriela, Anakbayan, and APS, welcoming all individuals eager to learn, listen, or contribute to the conversation. Those unable to attend can still show support by spreading the word or making direct donations.

The organizers have emphasized that human rights violations and extrajudicial killings remain ongoing in the Philippines, linking the historical context of Martial Law to contemporary concerns under the current administration, underscoring the event's relevance beyond historical remembrance.