“Couples’ romantic date and proposal ended up fragmented, a family reunion of nine became painfully disconnected and a hopeful relationship of friendship gets partially separated.”

Tekalangwanminit is a play that revolved in three component narratives combined in one plot. It encompassed a tripartite anecdote of painful experiences of human life and relationship reflecting its situation in society. The story commenced an anniversary date of a young couple in the meadow inhabited by large lizards and frogs. The vibrant couple compassionately recalled their past’s rendezvous which resulted to a painful break up when a surprise marriage proposal was introduced. Julia, played by Therese de Guzman, was done waiting for her ring and already planned to break their relationship in the course of their romantic meeting. Even though how eager and sincere to save their relationship his boyfriend may appear, the young woman had made up her mind to end their relation and to continue her life without his boyfriend’s presence. The heart breaking narrative of the couple subsequently unfolded a broken family whose members were independently living from their parents and siblings, an aftermath of the parents’ decision who dedicatedly put themselves into work to earn money rather than providing love and care for their offspring. The last chapter of the play was about the story of a long time friendship that continues to exist despite of the different path and career they have chosen. Kristal, the woman who decided to stay with him until the end of Paolo’s life, colorfully and emotionally reminisce her experiences before Paolo died from cancer. It’s an emotional chapter that depicted a longtime relationship that even death cannot fully separate because of the strong bond of friendship and love.

The screenplay was indeed an awe-inspiring and meaningful piece. It was a mixture of a humorous and creative speech that portrayed real life experiences within a couple and family relationship. Every scene was alive and heart-warming but became monotonous when it reaches its middle. The actors have clearly portrayed their roles with conviction and compassion producing an amusing plot and composition. However, the elongated speech has failed to sustain effectively their audience’s attention.

Written By: Beatrice Angela Hermano

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