Ynang-Bayan: To be a Woman is to Live at a Time of War

A documentary film, which focuses on the subject of women’s movement in the Philippines. Myth and legend overlap with history and politics as the women’s struggle is laid to bear in the individual stories and achievements of those featured in the film. The fragmented mosaic of voices and scenes allow for a plurality of views and opinions to account for the multifaceted and complex nature of Filipinas. From poetry to dance, politics to poetry – women chart their own lives in the auspicious event of change happening with the ascent of a woman to the country’s pinnacle of power.

Directed by Nick Deocampo, Ynang-Bayan: To be a Woman is to Live at a Time of War leans on a strong ensemble — Upeng Fernandez, Edna Vida, Sylvia Garde — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1991.