'Song of the Fireflies' captures essence of being Filipino, resonates with global audience

Beyond being a Filipino musical film, "Song of the Fireflies" resonates with a global audience as it explores the universal themes of resilience, hope and the power of dreams.

- CHARMIE JOY PAGULONG

This was how producer Girlie Rodis, director King Palisoc and the cast described the movie at a recent media conference.

According to the media release, the "Song of the Fireflies" is a tribute to the extraordinary journey of the Loboc Children's Choir, which started in the 1980s in the quiet riverside town of Loboc, Bohol. Composed of children as young as nine to 13 years old, the choir had to rise above poverty, limited resources and natural calamities—all in pursuit of a single dream: to let their voices be heard beyond the walls of their classroom.

Their dreams burned brightly, fanned by the steadfast guidance of their teacher, Ma'am Alma Taldo (portrayed by Morissette), and the unwavering support of Equet Butalid (Rachel Alejandro), a cultural advocate of Bohol who believed deeply in their talent.

The choir's dedication and talent earned them the Gawad CCP Para sa Sining, the highest award given by the Cultural Center of the Philippines. They also brought home recognition from the European Folk-songs Festival in Barcelona, Spain twice (in 1993 and 1995) and clinched the coveted Gold Medal in the children's choir category in 2001.

The film garnered major awards at the 2025 Manila International Film Festival in Los Angeles (LA), such as the Audience Award for Best Picture, Best Actress (Morissette), Best Supporting Actress (Rachel), Best Supporting Actor (Noel Comia Jr.) and a Special Award. It also won the Platinum Remi Award at the WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival. It will be mounting its homecoming premiere in cinemas nationwide starting June 25.