Silang, Cavite – Saint Paul Seminary Foundation (SPSF) is set to host a two-part event exploring contemporary continental philosophy, culminating the academic year with insightful presentations and thought-provoking short films. On April 22, 2025, students from Prof. Ben Carlo Atim’s classes will showcase their work in both the “Philosophy Alive Today” (PAT Talk) series and the inaugural “Philokula” film festival.
The day-long event, held in the Tanghalang Timoteo Giaccardo auditorium, will begin with PAT Talk, featuring presentations from the Seminar Course on Contemporary Continental Philosophy. Students will delve into complex philosophical concepts, offering their unique perspectives on thinkers like Heidegger, Foucault, Deleuze, Arendt, Benjamin, and Byung-Chul Han. Topics range from Heidegger’s concept of “positionality” to Byung-Chul Han’s exploration of the “burnout society” and its relevance to contemporary Filipino life. Each presentation will be followed by a Q&A session, fostering engaging discussion and deeper understanding.
The afternoon will shift focus to “Philokula 2025,” a film festival showcasing original short films created by students in the History of Western Philosophy II class. These films bring philosophical ideas to life through contemporary narratives and compelling visuals. The four entries explore diverse themes:
Kalupi: This short film explores the ethical dilemma faced by Miguel, a struggling student who finds a lost wallet. Tempted by poverty and desire, he must choose between his immediate needs and the principles of honesty and integrity. Inspired by Kant’s Categorical Imperative, Kalupi examines the consequences of our choices and the importance of universal moral principles.
Sulyap: In moments of doubt and questioning, a young man embarks on a personal journey inspired by St. Anselm’s Proslogion. Sulyap visually portrays the search for God’s presence in the world, revealing that sometimes, a fleeting glimpse of faith in others can be enough to rediscover the divine within ourselves.
Lagalag: A former seminarian, now a teacher, reflects on his unconventional path to self-discovery. Inspired by René Descartes’ Discourse on the Method, Lagalag explores the importance of questioning inherited beliefs and forging one’s own path to truth. The film celebrates the courage to embrace uncertainty and find meaning in unexpected places.
Digital Ubermensch: In a world obsessed with online validation, Miko strives to become a “Digital Ubermensch,” seeking power and recognition through social media. Inspired by Nietzsche’s concept, the film explores the seductive nature of online fame, the dangers of self-deception, and the ultimate emptiness of a life lived for virtual approval. Digital Ubermensch offers a cautionary tale about the search for identity in the digital age.
This combined PAT Talk and Philokula provides a dynamic platform for SPSF students to demonstrate their understanding of complex philosophical concepts through both academic presentations and creative filmmaking.
The PAT Talk Paper Presentations, initiated in early 2023 by Prof. Atim’s History of Western Philosophy II and Ethics classes, arose from a classroom challenge: to demonstrate the continued relevance of philosophy in contemporary life. By connecting philosophical concepts to modern experiences and sharing them with a wider audience, PAT Talk, and now Philokula, aim to prove that philosophy remains vibrant and “alive.”
All are welcome to attend this free event and experience the power of philosophical inquiry and creativity.