CAGAYAN DE ORO — Veteran Mindanao journalist and now celebrated filmmaker Editha Caduaya is proving that regional storytellers can captivate a global audience, winning the Outstanding Excellence Award at the Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival on March 15.

Caduaya took home the top honor for her documentary, "Beneath the Badge / Sa Likod ng Tsapa (The Story of Police Colonel Hansel M. Marantan)." The recognition adds to the film’s growing international acclaim, following a Special Mention Award at the Dhaka International Film Festival on Jan. 18.

Police Colonel Hansel Marantan, the subject of the award-winning documentary "Beneath the Badge" by Editha Caduaya.
BEHIND THE UNIFORM. Police Colonel Hansel M. Marantan serves as the central figure of the documentary “Beneath the Badge / Sa Likod ng Tsapa.” Directed by Editha Caduaya, the film examines Marantan’s career. It explores the personal sacrifices within Philippine law enforcement. Photo Courtesy of Mayor Melchor Quitain, Jr.'s Facebook Page

“Beneath the Badge” examines the life of Marantan, a PNP officer. The story traces a career of controversy and redemption. Through interviews and archival footage, the film challenges police work perceptions. It uncovers the personal sacrifices hidden behind the uniform.

Caduaya is a Mindanao journalist with over two decades of experience. She has spent her career covering governance and conflict. This award honors regional women filmmakers and highlights untold stories.

“This documentary was created to show the human side of those who dedicate their lives to public service. Behind every badge is a story of sacrifice, pain, courage, and hope. These awards remind us that these stories deserve to be heard,” Caduaya told The Inquirer.

Seeking to tell deeper stories often overlooked in daily news, Caduaya transitioned into documentary filmmaking.

“There were moments when telling this story was emotionally heavy,” she said, adding that the world needed to see the person behind the uniform.

“a man who endured trials and accusations yet continued to serve his country.”

The Documentaries Without Borders festival celebrates impactful nonfiction films that tackle social realities. Winning this award places Caduaya’s work among distinguished documentaries recognized for their storytelling power and emotional depth.

Screenshot of the Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival winners list featuring "Beneath the Badge" by Editha Caduaya under the Outstanding Excellence category.
WORLD-CLASS LISTING. The official winners’ gallery of the 2026 Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival lists Mindanao-produced “Beneath the Badge” among the recipients of the Outstanding Excellence award. The film, directed by Editha Caduaya, shares the top tier with international entries from the United States, India, and Japan. Supplied photo
Read also: Mindanao film ‘Beneath the Badge’ wins special mention in Dhaka

For the filmmaker, the recognition carries a message far beyond cinema.

“This award is not just for the film. It is for every officer who continues to serve despite hardship, for every family who stands behind them, and for every storyteller who believes that truth and humanity matter,” she said.

With its growing international recognition, “Beneath the Badge” will reach wider audiences through global screenings, bringing Filipino narratives of resilience and redemption to the world.