Another milestone in the Philippine cinema and animation industry is about to happen as “Dayo sa Mundo ng Elementalia” opens on December 25, along with seven other films competing in the 34th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
“Dayo” is a heartwarming story about conquering one’s fears and succeeding over adversity. Eleven-year-old Bubuy (voiced by Nash Aguas) sets out on a journey with his newfound friend Anna (voiced by Katrina “Hopia” Legaspi), a teen manananggal, to save his abducted grandparents in the land of Elementalia. “Dayo” is a film that invites viewers into a world of flora, fauna, and mythical creatures from Philippine mythology.
At the press conference for “Dayo” held at the Discovery Suite, Ortigas, last December 4, Cutting Edge proudly presented world-acclaimed singer and thespian Lea Salonga, who sang the movie’s theme song “Lipad,” along with the other creative team members behind “Dayo sa Mundo ng Elementalia.”
Lea has been the singing voice behind animated films such as Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and Mulan in Mulan, but this is the first time she is singing for a Filipino animated production. She couldn’t help but share how happy and excited she is to be a part of “Dayo.”
“[Dayo is] something that’s incredibly exciting to be a part of… I’m glad to be singing the theme song called ‘Lipad,'” Lea said during the press conference.
Another Salonga is also behind the remarkable musical score of the film. Gerard Salonga, along with his 35-piece Filharmonika orchestra, added more life and energy to the animated film. Gerard also shared how proud he is to be part of such a significant Filipino animation project.
“I’m very proud to be a part of this project because it was really done to a scale that would only be dreamed about up until now,” said Gerard.
He also added that Filipinos should fully support projects like this to uplift the spirit of Filipino animators.
“I think it deserves every Filipino’s full support because this is a chance to create a culture, just like the Japanese and their anime culture. We have an opportunity because of the talented animators here to create a uniquely Filipino art form. I think that’s way more fulfilling as artists rather than being sourced by other countries to do their work for them. As artists, I feel it’s imperative to support Filipino original creativity.”
When Lea was asked how “Dayo” differs from the previous animated films she’s done, she quickly responded that in “Dayo,” she doesn’t have to portray a character but just be herself and sing the theme song “Lipad.”
“The song is incredibly inspirational and has a deeper meaning. The fact that it’s an all-Filipino endeavor, it says that the Filipino can sing, fly, soar, and aim for the sky, not minding the obstacles in the way. It’s something that will hopefully inspire more Filipino artists to say, ‘I believe I can do this,'” Lea explained about why the song “Lipad” is special to her.
“If ‘Dayo’ becomes a success, and I truly believe it will, then hopefully it will make others say, ‘This is an all-Filipino endeavor. It’s beautiful, well-made, well-put together, and well-produced. We can do the same.’ And hopefully, as a collective endeavor, it will inspire Filipino artists to say, ‘Yes, I can, and I can aim for the sky,’” enthused the Broadway star with optimism and full conviction.
Robert Quilao, Dayo’s director, admitted that while the 1.3 million-dollar flick may not be perfect, it’s already a great start.
“To a trained eye, you may see some hiccups in the film, but I think it’s a very good start, and we’re committed to doing more of this in the next few years. Hopefully, the public will receive it well,” said Quilao.
With a rich culture and many unique stories to tell, the team behind Dayo is optimistic that it can break into the international scene. In fact, they are already receiving inquiries from countries such as Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, and other parts of South America about showing Dayo there.
Employing over 500 animators from various parts of the Philippines, including Naga, Dumaguete, and Baguio, Executive Producer and Musical Director Jessie Lasaten said that making an animated film is hard but fun and rewarding.
The star-studded production features the voices of Michael V (Narsi), Noel Trinidad (Lolo Meong), Nova Villa (Lola Nita), Johnny Delgado (Carpio), Peque Gallaga (Nano), Laurice Guillen (Diwata/Bruha), and Gabe Mercado (Jo).
Before hitting cinemas on Christmas Day, Dayo will have a premiere night on December 19 at SM Megamall. For more information, visit the official movie website at www.dayomovie.com.
