Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok Featured in UN Women’s 12th Film Week in Jordan

The Philippine Embassy in Jordan, headed by His Excellency Ambassador Wilfredo C. Santos, participated in UN Women in Jordan's 12th Film Week by screening "Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok" on 19 April 2024, at the Rainbow Theatre in Amman. The Embassy’s participation in this event was made possible in collaboration with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) under their Philippine Embassies Assistance Program (PEAP).

The film "Ang Babae sa Likod ng Mambabatok” (The Woman Behind the Tattoo Artist) is a film that tells the inspiring story of Apo Wang Od, a 106-year-old woman known as the ‘Last Traditional Tattoo Artist of Kalinga.’ The film showcases her journey as a talented tattoo artist that is about artistry, empowerment, and breaking barriers, and how she challenges societal norms and defies stereotypes. By highlighting her resilience, creativity, and determination, the film aims to celebrate her unique voice and the strength it takes to pursue her passion in a male-dominated industry.

Beyond the art itself, Wang Od’s memories share authentic Kalinga culture in a remote mountain village animated by traditional dancing, songs and feasts. In her community, Apo Wang Od is a heroic culture bearer revered for her grip on a fading tradition. She has gained global recognition for her intricate line of work, which has been featured in international news and lifestyle publications, solidifying her status and placing her firmly in the spotlight as an icon of tattoo art. In February 2024, Apo Wang Od received the Presidential Lingkod-Bayan (civil servant) award in Malacañang Palace, in recognition of her impact and influence on Filipino culture and craft.

In her remarks after the screening, Consul Angeli A. Payumo encouraged the audience to take inspiration from the film to reflect on what kind of impression or ‘tattoo’ they wish to leave on the lives of the people around them. Like Wang Od, Consul Payumo further challenged them to embody the same values and principles of taking the Filipino culture to global heights.

The screening was an excellent opportunity to promote Philippine culture and the country’s progressive stance on women empowerment through the medium of film and cinema, as part of the Embassy’s 2024 programs for public and cultural diplomacy and Gender and Development (GAD). It was attended by Embassy and Migrant Workers Office (MWO) officers and staff, along with their families, the diplomatic community, and Filipino community members in Jordan. END