First-year Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BACOMM) students from City College of Cagayan de Oro gathered at the City Hall Quadrangle for the “Kalma Dokyu” film viewing, part of the Arts Month celebration on February 27, 2026. For the freshmen, the event was more than just a school activity it was an introduction to the power of storytelling through documentaries.
Sitting together in the open space, the students listened as one speaker led the discussion. Before each film, the speaker explained the background of the documentary and highlighted key points to watch for. These explanations helped the students understand the real-life situations presented in the films.
Five documentaries were shown, each sharing stories of struggle, hope, and everyday life. For BACOMM students, these films offered a chance to see how communication and media connect to real experiences. Unlike regular movies, the documentaries showed real people facing real challenges, giving the students a clear example of how stories can inform and inspire.
After each screening, the facilitator encouraged students to respond to questions and share reflections. One of the BACOMM freshmen, Kissy Morales, shared her thoughts about the films. “The documentaries made me realize that real stories are more powerful than fictional ones because they show the truth about what people are going through,” she said. She added that the experience inspired her to become more mindful in creating content that informs and gives voice to important social issues.
By the end of the afternoon, the first-year BACOMM students had not only watched films but also gained insight into storytelling, social issues, and the role of art in sharing truth.
For the BACOMM freshmen, it was an inspiring experience that emphasized the importance of art, reflection, and purpose in every story told. (CSM/ONP)