When we think of the Philippines landscape, the first thing that comes to mind is beautiful beaches with white sands and crystal clear water. But there are beautiful mountain areas that inspire love.

The country is a magnet for tourists and those who desire to look for lifetime partners. Because of this, I always thought about a romantic story with cross cultural flare while showcasing the beauty of the Philippines and its culture. In addition, I also wanted the story to highlight another area of the country that possesses under rated beauty with its landscape. I have a special attachment and affiliation with the Cordillera Region of the Philippines. Although I did not grow up in that area, it holds a dear place in my heart. I spent seven years in Baguio City and completed my bachelor’s degree at a premier university there. And there is Banaue, which is also part of the Cordillera Region and is considered as the eighth wonder of the world.

Thus, the film Take Me To Banaue was born, which I co-wrote with a talented writer. The film follows Hank, a gawky American Engineer in his pursuit to meet the perfect girlfriend who he hopes will become his wife. After discovering that Grace (the woman he fell for) is in fact a stunning escort and that she was staying with him so that she could get financial help, Hank has to spend the days and hours grappling with a deal from a businesswoman and listening to his friend’s advice—all as he tries to make it to Banaue…for the woman he loves.

The primary theme of Take Me To Banaue is Justification. The four major characters, Hank, our protagonist; Grace, Hank’s love interest; Jinky, an entrepreneur with a colonial mentally that Americans are superior race; and Jordan, a doctor and Hank’s best friend who is suave, smart and confident, all try to justify their actions and choices in life.

This script was conceptualized and developed taking into account that something personal is also universal. I have an interracial marriage (I am a Filipino married to a Japanese woman). The journey of the Protagonist embodies an authenticity that I believed many people from all walks of life can relate with.

Through the voices of the four main characters in the film, we begin to understand their journey and struggles. We can profoundly see their choices they made which impact their way of living.These characters represent segments of easily identifiable parts of society.

I hope Take Me To Banaue will inspire and transform people in a more cathartic way. And I hope this film can put the Philippines on the proverbial Hollywood map. And, I want everyone to see my homeland as more than a place with gorgeous beaches and delicious cuisine. I want them to go deeper and love it as I love it.