Ang Babae sa Septic Tank is not shortlisted in the Best Foreign Language category of the 84th Academy Awards.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has already chosen the nine films that have a chance to win the coveted Oscar trophy.
The nine chosen films are: Bullhead (Belgium), Monsieur Lazhar (Canada), Super Clasico (Denmark), Pina (Germany), A Separation (Iran)...
Footnote (Israel), Omar Killed Me (Morocco), In Darkness (Poland), and Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale (Taiwan).
The list will further be trimmed to five entries, which will be revealed on January 24.
Even if the Philippines' entry was not able to make the cut at the Oscars, the lead star of Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank, Eugene Domingo, points out that their independently-produced film was able to generate positive feedback among AMPAS members.
In an exclusive interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) via Facebook earlier today, January 19, Eugene said: "Yes we did not get the Oscar nomination slot.
"But the reactions of the members who have [seen] it have always been positive and Atty. Joji [Alonso, producer of the film] and I were able to enjoy a field trip in the AMPAS building.
"It was a treat when we went to Los Angeles. Unforgettable!"
What lessons did she learn while campaigning for Ang Babae sa Septic Tank in the United States?
"Gawa lang ng gawa.
"Everybody should be inspired and should be encouraged to explore.
"The Oscars is a very big dream, but it's just one of the big dreams for Philippine cinema.
"We can all start from within. We can all improve our own while exposing ourselves to other culture.
"Never stop dreaming."
