Filming the Lakbai Diwa Dance Ritwal

A conversation with cinematographer Peggy Peralta

Photos by Erina Alejo

As a professional cinematographer, how was this cultural project different in comparison to corporate projects?

Peggy Peralta: There's a world of difference. Corporate is always tied to selling something. The Lakbai Diwa project is an art project, an expression of my identity as a Filipina-American living and working San Francisco. I didn't feel like I was selling anything, which was refreshing. I was merely exploring, discovering and sharing all of that with my own community. It was a great experience for me as an artist.

Which site—YB Gardens, Streets of Diwata, Ocean Beach—resonated with you most? And why?

PP: Hands down, Ocean Beach because it's also my homebreak as a surfer. But on that particular morning, I wasn't there to catch waves, I was there as Steadipeggy. At one point while flying the camera, I felt so deeply moved that I burst into tears. I think it's because the ritual gave me an opportunity to reflect on my own journey from Manila to San Francisco. I re-discovered who I am. I especially remembered my Mommy who pushed me to come here, to follow my dreams as a filmmaker, to be my full authentic self. Happy and gay here, I'm living the dream. That morning my heart overflowed with love and gratitude. I experienced bliss. I know it will keep me nourished for a long time.

How did this project resonate with you personally as someone in the diaspora?

PP: I'm in the process of de-colonizing my mind. That journey can be dark at times. This project gave me light.