By Mariela Angella Oladive
The inspiring advocacy film “When the World Met Miss Probinsyana” premiered in the Visayas region with a series of events held at various locations from August 3 to 4.
The premiere featured a mall tour, meet-and-greet sessions with lead actress Rhian Ramos, and exclusive red carpet screenings at Robinsons Place Pavia in Iloilo, Ayala Capitol Mall in Bacolod, The Shops at Atria in Iloilo, and SM City Cebu.
Director JP Ninalga expressed deep gratitude for the warm reception and acknowledged the challenges local filmmakers face in competing with Hollywood productions.
“Thank you very much for the warm welcome. We are challenged as local filmmakers to show the film to a wider audience. Your support has been very helpful,” Ninalga shared during a press conference.
Ninalga emphasized the film’s mission to give a voice to the voiceless and address overlooked social issues.
“We would like to be the voice for the voiceless. There are many issues that we don’t look into and sometimes take for granted. As a filmmaker, this is our humble contribution to empower the voiceless,” she expressed.
“When the World Met Miss Probinsyana” tells the story of Marge, a determined woman from the province who ventures into the competitive arena of the BPO industry, a world dominated by men.
Marge emerges as a beacon of innovation and empowerment, returning to her roots with a mission to uplift her community by establishing her own BPO business amidst the skepticism of traditional norms.
Alongside her supportive partner Wil, Marge navigates the complexities of entrepreneurship and personal growth, striving to balance her aspirations with the realities of societal expectations.
Marjorie Aviso, the inspiration behind the film, shared her thoughts on the significance of her story.
“I have always asked myself if my story is even worth telling, for I know many more life stories deserve to be told. But this film is a testament that you do not have to be great to make a difference in this world.”
Aviso’s journey of advocacy and empowerment was a central theme, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of women in rural areas.
She described the film as a layered drama that included entertainment, information, and advocacy to empower and inspire women, particularly in rural areas.
Aviso stressed the importance of focusing on rural development and bringing opportunities to communities without the need to rely on major investors.
“Let’s not center everything in the metros. We can plant the seeds by empowering local resources,” she expressed.
The film also advocates for mental health awareness.
“We know that when people watch it, they themselves will become promoters. The most important thing is changing and touching lives,” Aviso added.
Rhian Ramos, who stars in the film portraying Marge, spoke about how she resonated with her role.
“I definitely can say that I’m also an empowered woman because I make a lot of choices for myself no matter how people assume I should be.”
Lance Raymundo, a cast member, emphasized the film’s relevance.
“The project is relevant and can help the viewers. This is a project close to my heart because I am associated with people who have experienced such turmoil. It truly shows what women go through,” he stressed.
“When the World Met Miss Probinsyana” continues its tour, with upcoming screenings and events planned across the country. For more information and updates, follow missprobinsyana.com and the film’s social media channels.
