RIGHTS (A compilation of human rights themed short films and public service advertisements)

RIGHTS is a pioneering compilation of independently produced and human rights themed short films/public service advertisements (PSAs). Initiated originally by artists involved with Southern Tagalog Exposure and the Free Jonas Burgos Movement, RIGHTS exposes the incessant human rights hostilities in the Philippines. It is an open and continuing call for filmmakers to participate in the growing movement to defend and uphold human rights. However, timely of its launching on September 21 last year, blatant state censorship rendered RIGHTS non-exhibition atIndie Sine following MTRCBs X rating to some of the PSAs.

Filmmakers decried MTRCB's X-rating on RIGHTS as a form of violation of freedom of expression, validating their opinion on the human rights situation in the Philippines. Yet despite the censorship, organizers and filmmakers were determined to continue to reproduce and distribute copies for the benefit of the people's right to know and reach out further to the broad mass of people. For almost a year following the systematic state intervention, the struggle of RIGHTS independent filmmakers for a free and relevant disposal of their craft continues. The repression of freedom of expression and worsening human rights situation only gives them more reason to produce more films and actively participate in the struggle for justice and peace. Thus, as an offshoot to last years unyielding and remarkable production, comes RIGHTS 2.

Some 15 relatively new set of artists and artists collective from the independent film movement will display their artistic prowess and social relevance.