Maaram - “Mientras Diyan Ako”
(“As Long as I am Here”)
How is it that this Aglipayan priest in the town of Patnongon assumes the role of the culture bearer of the taltal, a religious play that dramatizes the life, passion, and death of Jesus Christ? Father Jonathan Sevegan tackles his role as the scriptwriter and director of the taltal, a tradition he has introduced in every parish assignment since he was ordained priest.
And since he is about to leave Patnongon in June 2023, he now reflects on how he was able to sustain this tradition and how his parish church has become a welcoming home for the youth who comprise the cast of the taltal. Mientras diyan ako, “as long as I am here,” is a promise he utters - a promise to keep alive the tradition of the taltal, and a promise to provide a nurturing presence to the children who navigate very difficult life circumstances but can still muster the time and devotion to be part of this annual theatrical production.
Direction and script: Maria Jovita Zarate
Additional material: Ron Stephen R. Reyes & Mary Joy H. Ramos
Editing: Ron Stephen R. Reyes, Sernne John P. Dominia, and Norman Jasm Cuala
Videography: Ron Stephen R. Reyes, Louie Miguel de Leon, John Rodriguez, Tonzie Escaño Gay
30 апр 2023
