Originally Published on June 26, 2021
Written by Trisha Rodrigueza
The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), in collaboration with the University of Caloocan City (UCC) through Languages and Communication Department Head Ms. Catlleya Yee, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Bernadette Enriquez, and Communication Program Coordinator Mr. Rhyan Malandog, has successfully launched an online theater titled, “Si Juan Tamad, Ang Diyablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto” as part of their campaign in promoting voter’s education through an organized project named “RAK THE VOTE: MOBILIZING THE YOUTH FOR CHANGE”.
The students of the University of Caloocan City participated in the free online streaming of the said theater play.
Moreover, the play “Si Juan Tamad, Ang Diyablo at ang Limang Milyong Boto” is a musical-comedy penned by famous and multi-awarded composer, lyricist, and musical director Vincent A. De Jesus, with extra scenes by Liza Magototo and Anj Heruela.
The story was set on the fictional island of Isla Filiminimon. The narrative follows the timeline of the election process and introduces several prominent figures from Philippine society.
The main character was Juan Tamad, a young first-time voter, who sought to find reasons not to vote and participate in the Filimini elections due to his “laziness” and choice to be “uninvolved.” Juan Tamad is further discouraged by the Diyablo, who served as the play’s narrator.
Following this, UCC students were also invited to join the post-event talk back #UsapTayo, wherein, they discussed the importance of the message that the play narrated, held yesterday, June 25 via Zoom Conference.
The talkback was joined by Ms. Ria Atayde who is one of the founders of We The Youth Vote. Ms. Atayde discussed how their organization was formed as well as its aim to encourage more people, specially the youth, to register and use their right to vote. She also shared the steps on how to register via the iRehistro of the Commission on Elections.
Selected representatives were also able to give their insights regarding the show and shared their opinions about social issues that is prevalent in today’s political climate.
The organizers and participants also encourage other Filipinos who are not registered yet to make their first move in nation-building as the closing of Comelec registration is already near.
TNC of the North 