Micah Joyce Saliganan-Guillermo is a dual-degree candidate at Simmons University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a concentration in Journalism with minors in Public Health and Public Policy
After founding Lex Education Philippines in 2021, she was admitted to Simmons University as a Gilbert and Marcia Kotzen Scholar, a full-ride merit scholarship, an Honors Program scholar, and is now a member of the Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society. Guillermo now works as an Administrative Assistant at School the World, Communications Intern at OpenSky Community Services, and Equity Research Intern and Fellow with the Simmons University Undergraduate Admissions Office. She is also a Contributing Writer for The Simmons Voice and a Senior Editor for CommTracks.
Panday is a short documentary set in Gonzaga, Cagayan, Philippines, that tells the story of a fading yet enduring tradition of Filipino blacksmithing. At the center of the film is Warlito Saliganan, a magpapanday who has dedicated nearly 40 years to the craft, a skill he inherited from his stepfather, Monico Saliganan. Through the rhythm of hammer against steel and the quiet persistence of daily labor, the film captures not only the making of tools but the forging of legacy, identity, and cultural memory. As modernization reshapes rural life, Panday reflects on the importance of preserving traditions passed from one generation to the next. The documentary is produced and written by Micah Joyce Saliganan Guillermo
Sights Unseen is a short documentary that follows two soulmates as they explore the scenic wonders of Gonzaga, Philippines. Celebrating the town’s natural beauty, from its seas and mountains to its rivers, the film tells a tender story of romance set against these breathtaking landscapes. Inspired by the question, “Can the eyes still appreciate beauty if they can no longer see?” the documentary reflects on perception, love, and the essence of experiencing the world around us. Micah Guillermo directed and wrote the film in collaboration with Kim Asuncion, employing a poetic and evocative approach to honor Gonzaga’s stunning natural sites and rich tourist attractions. Sights Unseen was submitted as an official entry to the Dokyu Turismo Film Festival, organized by the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, in recognition of its contribution to promoting local culture and tourism through cinematic storytelling.
AYAT or Love is a short documentary by Royal Studio Production that explores the lives and culture of the Aetas, an indigenous community in Gonzaga, Philippines. Through intimate storytelling, the film highlights their traditions, resilience, and deep connection to their homeland, portraying love not merely as an emotion but as a sense of home and belonging. Micah Guillermo directed and wrote the documentary in collaboration with Kim Asuncion, capturing both the challenges and rewards of immersive fieldwork while showcasing the richness of the Aetas’ daily life. The film advocates for the recognition and preservation of their stories within the broader history of Gonzaga. AYAT was awarded 1st place at the Dokyu Turismo Film Festival, organized by the Department of Tourism of the Philippines in 2021, honoring its contribution to promoting local culture and heritage through documentary filmmaking.
Alkansya is a heartfelt story exploring faith, sacrifice, and love, centered on the deep bond between its characters: two granddaughters and their grandmother. The narrative follows these characters as they navigate challenges, cultural traditions, and the hardships faced by families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Through their acts of giving and care, the story emphasizes the enduring strength of family ties and the sacrifices made out of love. Micah Guillermo contributed to the project as the scriptwriter and producer, and also performed as one of the granddaughter characters, bringing the story to life both behind and in front of the camera. This Christmas cultural special was recognized for its compelling storytelling and emotional resonance, earning 1st place at the Fun Fiesta sa Pilipinas 2021, the 9th National Performing Arts Festival, which celebrates the richness of Filipino culture and the power of familial love.
No Room Near Campus: Simmons Students Struggle With High Rent in Fenway is a 1:30-minute video journalism package produced and written by Micah Guillermo for COMM 322: Video Journalism at Simmons University. The segment explores the challenges Simmons University students face finding affordable housing near campus, highlighting rising rent prices in Fenway and the impact on student life.