Who owns the land? Who owns the sea? These questions weigh heavily on the communities of Bantayan Island and its surrounding islets in northern Cebu, Philippines, where fisherfolk have lived along the coast for generations. Tourism promised economic security, but for many residents it has led to the loss of land, livelihoods and ancestral ties to the sea. Inequality has widened, thousands of families have been relocated to high-density housing, and many communities now depend on working for resort owners.

Martha Atienza is a Dutch-Filipino video artist who lives in Bantayan Island. Her project GoofLand is a collaborative initiative that unites artists, farmers, government, and local communities in Bantayan to address social and environmental challenges. On 27 June 2022, GoodLand launched Bantayan’s first Fisherfolks Day, celebrating the resilience and determination of local fisherfolk.

Atienza’s atmospheric video Adlaw sa mga mananagat (Fisherfolks day) captures some of the many decorated fishing boats that paraded in the rain. The event honoured the community’s deep connection to the sea while fostering discussions on marine conservation, fisherfolk rights and sustainable fishing practices. For the artist, remembrance is an act of resistance.

Adlaw sa mga mananagat (Fisherfolks day) was commissioned for the 17th Istanbul Biennial 2022 and has been adapted to suit the unique format screen in the Art Gallery’s Naala Badu atrium.