UNICEF and BOSES

PRESS RELEASE FROM UNICEF

UNICEF supports Cinemalaya film on child abuse

A moving tale about rebirth and the power of friendship, “Boses,” is the latest cinematic masterpiece by veteran writer-director-producer Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil, of the award-winning film “Mga Pusang Gala.” The Cinemalaya entry supported by UNICEF tells the story of Onyok (Julian Duque), a battered child rescued from an abusive father (Ricky Davao). Onyok is sent to a shelter where he learns how to smile again, forming a bond with a reclusive violinist (Coke Bolipata) through their shared love of music.

Onyok’s story is shared by thousands of abused Filipino children across the country who suffer in silence from various forms of violence. According to the National Statistical Coordination Board, there were 6,933 child abuse cases served by the DSWD in 2007. These children were either neglected, physically or sexually abused or exploited, abandoned or made to work.

By supporting this film, UNICEF calls for a concerted effort to end child abuse and steps up its Children Against Violence campaign. UNICEF is encouraging children to support each other with their “Ate at Kuya” initiative, helping children to speak out and seek help for violence or abuse. These activities and interventions reinforce all children’s right to be protected from violence and abuse, as enshrined in the Convention of the Rights of the Child.

“Boses is a landmark film made in the name of abused children all over the Philippines. It is a story of triumph which illustrates the enduring spirit of a boy, and his amazing capacity to heal, love and forgive despite being a victim of violence and neglect,” UNICEF’s Ani Saguisag said.

Director Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil considers the film extra special because it marries art and advocacy. Most of all, it is a film which she could share with her son. Marfil, who grew up in the world of theater, believes that each child is a precious gem just waiting to be discovered.

“In ‘Boses,’ the battered boy Onyok turns out to be a child prodigy. Very dramatic perhaps, but that happens in real life. Imagine if we can free all those millions of Filipino children from the culture of violence they live with—physical, emotional, spiritual violence—whew, the Philippines would be so rich!” she reveals.

“Boses” is a digital film entry at Cinemalaya 2008. It is sponsored by UNICEF, DSWD and Council for the Welfare of Children (CWC).

About UNICEF
UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.