And So It Begins

Premiered May 12, 2025
Directed by Ramona Diaz

See how the Philippines' tense race for president in 2022 became the nation's fight for its soul.

About the Documentary

And So It Begins follows the Philippines’ turbulent 2022 presidential race, with the son of ousted former dictator Ferdinand Marcos waging a combative social media campaign against his more progressive opponent, incumbent Vice President Leni Robredo. Following it all is independent journalist and Nobel-winner Maria Ressa, with an eye toward the specter of increasing autocracy.

The Filmmakers

Ramona Diaz

Ramona S. Diaz is a Peabody, Gotham, IDA, and EmmyⓇ Award-winning Asian American filmmaker, and a PGA and Independent Spirit award-nominee, known for her compelling character-driven documentaries. Ramona is both a Guggenheim Fellow and a USA Fellow. She was named the inaugural McGurn Family Trust Resident in Film by the American Academy in Rome.

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