Elizabeth Oropesa (left) and Daria Ramirez (beside her) in a scene from “ECQ Diary (Bawal Lumabas).” (Photo courtesy of ARLYN DELA CRUZ-BERNAL)
MANILA, Philippines — A story set and completed during the pandemic — aptly titled “ECQ Diary (Bawal Lumabas)” — was selected to join this year’s 17th Cinemalaya Indie Nation Full Feature category.
“ECQ Diary” is a film produced by multi-awarded veteran actress Ms. Elizabeth Oropesa.
Oropesa handpicked Ms. Daria Ramirez, also a multi-awarded veteran actress, to co-star with her. Oropesa plays the character of Susan and Ramirez essays the role of Amalia.
Oropesa — or La Oro as she is known in the industry — says that being the executive producer of the film is her bigger responsibility more than being an actress.
“You take care of your fellow actors, the staff, and the crew. You make sure they have food, proper accommodation among other things,” La Oro says.
“ECQ Diary” is written and directed by veteran journalist and filmmaker Arlyn Dela Cruz-Bernal.
“The director is like a daughter to me. So that part was easy. We help each other,” La Oro shares about her director.
The principal photography was shot in its entirety in Olongapo City in October 2020.
“ECQ Diary” poster (Photo courtesy of ARLYN DELA CRUZ-BERNAL)
La Oro recalls: “When we made this movie it was at the height of the pandemic. We had to comply with all the protocols. We were all together in one place. By God’s grace, no one contracted COVID-19.”
The 17th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival will run coincidentally while Metro Manila will again be under enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).
“The movie tackles a reality that we all face at the time of the pandemic. As an artist, I am proud to be able to produce a movie about the pandemic for future generations to see,” La Oro said.
The 17th Cinemalaya runs from Aug. 6 to Sept. 5.