EdukSine, the first and only Filipino indie movie streaming platform, goes live
The very first and only streaming platform for Filipino independent movies is now live.
EdukSine, funded by the Department of Science and Technology, just had its grand launching at the University of the Philippines Diliman Film Insitute's Cine Adarna last Aug. 13.
It aims to bridge the gap between indie filmmakers and their markets (including schools and government offices) and serve as a new and unconventional platform to promote Filipino culture and arts through independent films.
Karen Jane Salutan, who helmed the project, said that the platform aims to provide contextual and transformative film content to audiences as well as meaningful engagements. Salutan also wants to provide sustainable support to independent Filipino film producers, directors, actors, and film marketers.
"If we want to make the younger generation reflect deeper, to have critical thinking, if we want to make the Philippines a great nation—then it means we need to support independent films," EdukSine said on its website.
"Good Films can teach them to vote for the right people, to empower women, and children to be morally upright and responsible Filipino citizens."
Hector Gloria, executive director of EdukSine Philippines, during the website's launching said film is a powerful tool for education through storytelling.
"Once a story is told, it stays with you. Let’s keep telling our stories," Gloria said.
To date, the website accepts registration for organization-based accounts, which allows for block screening. Individual screenings will open in October.
The streaming platform currently has 48 indie movies to choose from, including El Presidente, the biopic of Emilio Aguinaldo; Respeto, which is about a Martial Law poet and an aspiring rapper; and Liway, a true story about a Martial Law political prisoner mother.
A ticket costs P100 per head, which may be settled via EdukSine credits or offline cash payment bank deposit. Other platforms like Maya, GCash, as well as major credit cards, will be accepted soon.
There are three types of screenings that EdukSine offers:
- Online Block Screening, in which the audience may exclusively watch movies on EdukSine for three to five days anywhere they are.
- Face-to-Face Block Screenings, in which viewing takes place at once's office or auditorium. One's organization must provide EdukSine transportation and hotel accommodation (outside Metro Manila) to safely deliver the film. It must also provide visual and audio equipment, as EdukSine will only bring the film copy and the laptop for viewing.
- Hybrid Block Screenings, which is a combination of online and face-to-face block screenings.
EdukSine said it may also invite the director, producer, or actors of a chosen film to give a short talk and answer questions from the audience for an additional fee.
You may browse the website through this link.