Mindanao-based filmmaker and former journalist Editha Z. Caduaya did not expect her documentary ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa: The Story of Col. Hansel Marantan’ to gain recognition on the international stage.
The film recently won the Outstanding Excellence Award at the Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival, announced on March 15, 2026. It also received a Special Mention Award at the Dhaka International Film Festival in January 2026—marking a significant milestone for the independently produced documentary.
The film centers on the life of Police Brigadier General Hansel M. Marantan, offering a deeper look into the man behind the badge. It explores his experiences, including controversies, challenges, and personal motivations that shaped his career in law enforcement.
According to Caduaya, the film’s impact extended beyond the Philippines, resonating strongly with international audiences.
“Nung sa Dhaka, parang naiyak ako, kasi hindi ko in-expect na pulis pala ‘yung nakanood… ‘You know what? It happens to us.’ So, nakaka-relate sila sa journey ng Filipino police officers,” she shared.
She added that similar reactions were observed during screenings in South Africa.
“So meaning, the acts and the scenes which they went through, are also experienced by other police officers in other countries. So, there’s no monopoly of injustice, there’s no monopoly of pain and sacrifices of the police officers. It’s a universal thing,” she said.
Despite tackling sensitive issues such as corruption and systemic challenges, Caduaya clarified that the production did not receive threats.
“’Yung mga involved na cases, sumagot naman sila… in the spirit of fair and balanced reporting, we were able to present all the evidence. Walang naging threat so far,” she said.
For Marantan, who is set to retire in 90 days, the documentary serves as a legacy piece for fellow officers and the public.
“Do I have a choice?” he said when asked why he continues to fight amid controversies.
“I have to vindicate myself, not for me but for my children… And because it is the right thing to do. I have to uncover it, expose the true side of it, because if I keep silent, ‘yung truth, hindi na ‘yan lalabas,” he added.
The documentary also features fellow police officers Stefanio Rabino, Christopher Saladero, and Nicolas Torre III.
Following its international success, the film’s official theme song and music video—also titled ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa’—were launched on April 11 at Camp Vicente Lim in Laguna and are now available on digital platforms such as Spotify and YouTube.
Despite the recognition, Marantan said he has no plans for a sequel, admitting that acting without a script was challenging. Instead, he intends to focus on a quieter life with his family after retirement.
