Makati City (July 12) – The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has officially rated the upcoming docu-film Sa Likod Ng Tsapa (Behind the Badge) trailer “G” (General Audience) for theatrical screening.
This means the promotional trailer for the film which chronicles the real-life story of a decorated police officer can be shown in cinemas to all viewers, including children. Under MTRCB guidelines, a “G” rated trailer is approved to play before any movie, regardless of that movie’s own rating.
This development has greatly boosted the morale of the film’s producer and entire cast, who are celebrating the wide accessibility the trailer now enjoys.
A Boost for Regional Filmmakers and Cast
For the all-Davao production team behind Sa Likod Ng Tsapa, the MTRCB’s general-audience approval is a significant vote of confidence.
“We are thrilled with the ‘G’ rating for our trailer, as it allows Col. Marantan’s story to reach audiences of all ages across the country,” said Editha Z. Caduaya, the film’s producer, writer, and director.
“This approval is a huge boost for our team in Davao, it shows that even regional stories like ours can resonate nationally.”
The entire cast and crew composed primarily of talents from Davao City have been energized by the news. It affirms that a film produced outside Metro Manila can achieve nationwide appeal, inspiring other regional filmmakers to bring their stories to the big screen.
About Sa Likod Ng Tsapa (Beneath the Badge)
Produced by POP Moviehouse and Newsline Philippines and written and directed by Editha Z. Caduaya
Sa Likod Ng Tsapa is a docu-drama based on the life of Police Colonel Hansel M. Marantan. Col. Marantan is a bemedalled Philippine National Police officer known for his service and sacrifices he previously headed the PNP’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Metro Manila and now serves as Acting City Director of the Davao City Police Office.
The film brings to life his untold story of betrayal, injustice, and redemption, offering a raw look into the unseen battles and moral dilemmas faced by law enforcers behind the badge.
In dramatizing Col. Marantan’s journey, the movie also reflects broader themes in Philippine politics and the internal struggles within the police force, showcasing the personal sacrifices of those who risk their lives in the line of duty.
The Sa Likod Ng Tsapa trailer’s “G” classification means it can be widely screened in theaters as part of its promotional campaign. Audiences catching movies in cinemas will be able to see the trailer, introducing them to Col. Marantan’s gripping story without restriction.
This momentum comes ahead of the film’s release; Sa Likod Ng Tsapa is slated for a nationwide theatrical premiere on August 13, 2025, with distribution by Solar Entertainment.
Sa Likod Ng Tsapa marks a milestone as the first Davao-produced film to spotlight the journey of an Ilocano-born police officer whose career spanned from Northern Luzon to Mindanao.
The regional nature of the production is a point of pride for the team. “We hope our success paves the way for more stories from the regions to be told,” Caduaya added. “Col. Marantan’s life is a story of resilience and truth, and we’re honored to share it with the entire country.”