For Police Brigadier General Hansel Marantan, continuing to fight his case was tied to clearing his name.
“Do I have a choice? I had to vindicate myself, not for me but for my children,” he said when asked what keeps him going.
Marantan shared this during a press conference in Laguna on April 12, held for the launch of the music video of the self-titled theme song of ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa: The Story of Col. Hansel Marantan’, which continues to gain international accolades and attention from global audiences.
Docu’s international recognitions
The event forms part of the continuing rollout of the documentary, which has been recognized both in the Philippines and internationally since its release on August 13, 2025.
Directed by Mindanao-based journalist Editha Z. Caduaya, the film received the Outstanding Excellence Award at the Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival, announced on March 15, 2026. It was also given a Special Mention at the Dhaka International Film Festival in January 2026.
Exploring the story “beneath the badge”
The documentary, with the English title ‘Beneath the Badge’, focuses on Marantan’s life beyond his role as a police officer, including the controversies, pressures, and motivations that shaped his decisions.
Among the key events revisited is the 2013 Atimonan incident in Quezon, where a joint police and military operation led to the deaths of 13 men at a checkpoint along Maharlika Highway.
The incident drew national attention after differing accounts emerged. While it was initially described as an armed encounter, subsequent investigations resulted in multiple murder charges against the officers involved.
In a decision dated June 23, 2025, a Manila court cleared Marantan and 11 others, ruling that they acted in response to an actual and imminent threat and that the force used was justified.
Marantan reiterated during the press conference that stepping back was never an option. “Hindi ako pwedeng magkuwento na loser ako. That’s not me,” he said. (I can’t pose myself as a loser.)
He added that remaining silent would have meant allowing his version of events to remain untold.
“If I will keep my silence, then the truth will be buried forever… baka nakakulong pa kaming lahat ngayon.” (We might still be in jail now.)
Also featured in the documentary are Stefanio Rabino, Christopher Saladero, and Nicolas Torre III, who are also serving in the police force.
With the release of its theme song’s music video, the documentary continues to expand its reach. The song was composed and produced by Caduaya and performed by Jerry Angga Mantawi.
Watch the MV of ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa’ below.
CinemaBravo 
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