SM digital theaters nationwide are showcasing the latest batch of Cinemalaya films starting with Saan Nagtatago si Happiness? This is SM management's way of showing their all-out support to the new digital film wave and helping the public develop a deeper appreciation for "out-of-the-box" movies.

On March 14, the public will be able to watch yet another Cinemalaya gem, Batad: sa Paang Palay, which is directed by Benji Garcia and Vic Acedillo, Jr. This 91-minute digital film won the Special Jury Prize, best screenplay (Vic Acedillo Jr.), best actor (Alchris Galura), and best production design (Aped Santos and Noel Navarro), during the 2006 Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival.

This 2006 Cinemalayaentry is about a 14-year old Ifugao (meaning "People of the Earth") boy from Batad who is forced to sell produce in the Banawe market to augment his family's income. Meanwhile, his father pursues the philanthropic mission of repairing the rice terraces of adjoining Ifugao villages.

Exposed to Western modernization in Banawe, the boy becomes obsessed in owning a pair of trekking boots that he does not really need. In pursuit of his dream, he takes on all odd jobs imaginable and, ultimately, becomes a tour guide. During one of his tours, he barters his guide fee for a pair of shoes. But upon possessing the long-desired shoes, he attempts to leave his Ifugao roots and chase big city dreams.

Batad: sa Paang Palay will be screened at the following SM digital theaters starting March 14, 2007: SM Mall of Asia, SM Manila, SM San Lazaro, SM Centerpoint, SM Megamall, SM Fairview, SM North Edsa, SM Southmall, SM Clark, SM Pampanga, SM Cebu, and SM Davao.