Ayat
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.