CAGAN: A Documentary Film, an independently produced documentary highlighting the cultural heritage of the Mandaya community in Davao de Oro, bagged two awards at the Rotary Film Festival Manila 2026 during its awarding ceremony on October 10, 2026, at Cinema ’76 Film Society in Quezon City, Metro Manila.

Directed and produced by Davao de Oro State College instructor and The Turret student publication adviser Given Mark B. Inansugan, with DdOSC alumnus and former The Turret editor-in-chief Miles Benedict O. Soriao serving as cinematographer, the documentary received the Pamana Award for Cultural Heritage and the Finalist Award for Creating Lasting Impact Through Filmmaking.

The documentary was among 11 films selected for the festival’s official selection out of 414 entries submitted nationwide, earning a spot in the national film competition.

Set in Sitio Cagan, Barangay Andap, New Bataan, Davao de Oro, the documentary chronicles the traditions, cultural practices, livelihood, and everyday life of the Mandaya community while shedding light on the challenges its members face in preserving their cultural identity amid changing social conditions.

Inansugan stressed that by portraying the Mandaya people’s lived experiences, the documentary highlights the role of filmmaking in documenting Indigenous traditions, preserving cultural narratives, and raising awareness of the challenges facing Indigenous communities.

Meanwhile, DdOSC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay congratulated the filmmakers for their achievement, recognizing their initiative and creative efforts in bringing the stories of Indigenous communities to a national audience.

“This achievement of our faculty member and alumnus is a source of great pride for us and demonstrates how creativity, initiative, and a deep appreciation of our cultural heritage can produce meaningful work beyond the academic setting,” Dr. Matunhay expressed.

Organized by the Rotary Club of Luntiang Maynila Prime, the Rotary Film Festival Manila 2026 is a short film competition that provides a platform for young and emerging Filipino filmmakers to showcase their storytelling talents and creative works.