In the mountains of central Mindano, Phillipines, just below the cloud line, lies the community of Bendum. Considered insignificant by the lowlanders for centuries, the area has become exposed through relentless logging, much of it illegal. The indigenous tribal community here has struggled for decades against deforestation, attempting to regain control over their ancestral lands. Unlike many similar tales, the people of Bendum have been successful, through strong leadership and the desire to stand together. They have become a political force, with the knowledge that their ancient wisdom is beneficial, even necessary, to the sustainability of the land. In this documentary, we learn about their homeland and the effects of deforestation on it and their culture; we see their daily life; and we learn the history of their incredible struggle. Directed by Anthony Collins, Canada, 2001, 29 min.

Cosponsored with the Department of Anthropology, and the Southeast Asia Program.