06/10/2025
๐๐๐ฃ๐ฎ ๐๐๐ก๐๐จ, ๐๐ง๐๐ข๐๐ฃ๐๐ค๐ช๐จ ๐๐ง๐๐ช๐ข๐ฅ๐๐จ
By: Julianna Denise N. Narvaja
A choir of chatters and laughter greets the air while students gather in front of the entrance. Lines of pupils occupy both sides while a few are scattered around the area, some leaning against the white walls, others fidgeting with the grainy surface of their tickets. Their gazes stray in different directions, eyes filled with curiosity and excitement. Josephinians, along with learners from neighboring private schools, come together to witness the movie of this yearโs annual film showing!
What was to be a rainy September 23 turned into an even more meaningful morning on October 6, 2025, when St. Joseph school joined other private institutions such as Crest Christian School, South Lakes Integrated School, Scuola Dei Bambini di Sta. Teresita Montessori Inc, and Maranatha Christian Academy for a special screening of 'Mga Munting Tala' in Cinema 4 at SM San Pablo.
The show had been postponed due to Typhoon Nando (international name Ragasa), but the delay only strengthened the anticipation among the Josephian community. When the big day finally arrived, the energy was amazing, students buzzing with excitement, teachers guiding them inside, and the faint scent of popcorn mixing with the thrill of shared experience.
'Mga Munting Tala' weaves a heartwarming tale of hope, dreams, and resilience that lives in the heart of five kids in the midst of poverty, despair, and hopelessness. The story begins with the familiar Filipino streets scenery, and follows a little girl named Hana who excels in academics yet spends most of her time teaching kids from her barangay, stemming from her passion to become a teacher, accompanied by her friends Noah, who dreams of serving the church, Sarah who seeks to becoming a singer, Mary who wants to see her and her brothers' parents again, and her little brother, David, who desires being with Hana and helping his famiy.
The five fight for their goals despite their unfortunate environment, opposition from peers, and bullying. Overcoming lots of ups and downs together, they share deep and loving bond for one another as a result of their undying light and never-ending support. After lots of perserverance, dilligence, and kindness, they resolved issues, finished their battles, and took a big leap towards their dreams.
For Josephians, 'Mga Munting Tala' was more than just a movie, it was a mirror reflecting the values the institution upholds. The storyโs emphasis on education, perserverance, and dedication resonated deeply with them.
โThe film โ'Mga Munting Talaโ inspired students to value education and perseverance despite lifeโs challenges. It also taught the importance of compassion, hope, and believing in oneโs dreams,โ stated Sir Crispin Faylon, advisor of Grade 8 Daffodil and a respected teacher at SJS.
โFor me, the movie 'Mga Munting Tala' shows that even if something looks small or simple, it can spark a big dream in someoneโs heart. It teaches students that if you dream about something, you must also do something, through hope, kindness, and perseverance, to make it real,โ shared Miss Maria Hannah Manalo, advisor of Grade 7 Fern and another esteemed teacher at St. Joseph School.
โI felt very touched and my heart softened when I watched the movie. Witnessing the impact of the movie, I got encouraged to do well too, not only inside but outside my house,โ expressed Louise Mhertle Dychanco, a hardworking 8th grader from SJS.
The evening in Cinema 4 became a celebration of community and shared inspiration. The laughter that once filled the hallways before the screening and the 'yieeee!!' during the subtly romatic scenes were replaced with quiet reflection as the lights dimmed and the five children's story unfolded. When the credits rolled, applause echoed, a collective appreciation for a story that reminded everyone of the power of small beginnings and steadfast hope.
Even after leaving the theater, Josephian carried home more than just memories. In the end, Mga Munting Tala did more than entertain, it rekindled the Josephian spirit. It showed that no dream is too distant, no hardship too heavy, when oneโs heart is guided by faith and compassion.
Like the filmโs tiny stars, each Josephian holds a light, humble yet radiant enough to brighten the world around them. And as the light of the screen faded on that memorable morning, one truth remained clear: in every small act of kindness and perseverance, tiny tales become tremendous triumphs.
Photo:
Mamus Talent House Since 2009. (n.d.). [Photograph of performers shared on Facebook post]. Facebook. https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1297169805745692&id=100063580553948&mibextid=CDWPTG