Unapologetic grit and sacrifice become a necessity in the world of ‘SalvageLand’ – directed by Lino S. Cayetano and written by Shugo Praico and JC Pacala. The likes of Richard Gomez, Elijah Canlas, Mon Confiado, Cindy Miranda, McCoy De Leon, and Angela Morena graced the big screen of Shangri-La Plaza, EDSA Cinema on the evening of November 18, 2025. Southville’s very own COMMA students were invited to the exclusive screening, experiencing firsthand what it means to tell stories through sacrifice.

In cinemas nationwide on November 26, 2025, ‘SalvageLand’ is honest in its neo-western take on a lawless, corruption-ridden frontier that mirrors the country’s harsh, inescapable reality. Following veteran police officer Ernesto Morales and his rookie son, Jules Morales, the film is Cayetano’s expression of blurring the lines between what is ideally safe and morally correct in modern-day elitist society.

The talkback session, organized by LunchBox PH, Rein Entertainment, and VIVA Films, enabled its cast to speak candidly on both the creative process and, as Richard Gomez puts it, the “cabinet of experiences and emotions” actors must hone in on. Films are, undoubtedly, meant to be felt, and one takeaway meant to resonate with audiences is that ‘SalvageLand’ was made to evoke a myriad of emotions further heightened by recent events within the country.

By: Kristelle Villanueva