Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan: A Powerful Story Every Family Will Relate To

A timely play that sheds light on the realities of OFW life and the families they leave behind 

In Filipino homes, the term “hero” isn’t just reserved for those in uniform—it’s often given to a parent, a sibling, or a relative working abroad. Our Overseas Filipino Workers carry not just the weight of financial responsibility, but also the emotional toll of distance, sacrifice, and longing.

These are the very truths that Dulaang UP brings to life in Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan, a moving production written and directed by Arlo Deguzman.

The story follows Bulan, portrayed by Sandino Martin, a writer working in the Middle East who confronts the realities faced by many OFWs. Inspired by real-life stories, the play feels deeply personal—especially for families who have experienced separation in the name of providing a better life.

With its final run happening on March 27 to 29 at the IBG-KAL Theater, here are five reasons why this production hits close to home:

1. When You Want to Rest, But Can’t

One of the most heartbreaking moments in the play is one of the most familiar.

When Bulan expresses his desire to come home for good—to rest, to write, to simply pause—he is met with resistance. His mother, thinking of their financial struggles, asks the question many breadwinners have heard before: “Paano kami?”

It’s a painful reality. For many Filipino families, rest feels like a luxury. And for children who become providers, the pressure to keep going often outweighs the need to take care of themselves.

Photo by Sophia Cabuhoy courtesy of Dulaang UP

2. Family Conflicts Don’t End at Home

Beyond the immediate household, the play also touches on tensions within extended families—particularly conflicts over land and inheritance.

It’s a scenario many Filipinos understand all too well. These disagreements, while sometimes resolved on the surface, can leave emotional scars that ripple across generations.

For parents watching with their children, it’s a chance to reflect on how these conflicts shape family dynamics—and how communication and empathy can help break the cycle.

3. The Comfort of Childhood and Grandparents

Amid the heaviness, the play offers tender moments—especially through Bulan’s memories of his grandmother.

Through creative storytelling and puppetry, we see glimpses of a simpler childhood: one filled with guidance, warmth, and unconditional love.

It’s a gentle reminder for families today: while we’re busy building futures, the small, quiet moments—especially those spent with grandparents—are the ones our children will carry with them the longest.

Photo by Loreta Arroyo courtesy of Dulaang UP

4. Choosing Yourself Without Guilt

In one turning point, Bulan’s sister makes a life-changing decision: to stop sending money home and start building a future for herself.

It’s a difficult truth to sit with. In a culture that values sacrifice, choosing oneself can feel like abandonment.

But the play reframes this conversation. Supporting family is important—but so is setting boundaries, planning for your own future, and recognizing that self-care isn’t selfish. It’s necessary.

Photo courtesy of Dulaang UP

5. Mental Health Matters—Even If We Don’t Talk About It

Perhaps one of the most important themes the play tackles is something often left unspoken: mental health.

Loneliness, burnout, and emotional exhaustion are realities for many OFWs. In the play, Bulan reaches a breaking point—overwhelmed not just by his circumstances, but by the expectations placed on him.

For families, this serves as a crucial reminder: checking in goes beyond asking “kumusta ka?” It means truly listening, creating safe spaces, and acknowledging that strength also means asking for help.

Photo courtesy of Dulaang UP

Watch It While You Can

For families looking for a meaningful cultural experience before Holy Week, Ang Kaliitan ng Kasalukuyan is more than just a play—it’s a story one can relate to and should talk about.

It’s a story that reflects the sacrifices made by so many Filipino families and a reminder that behind every remittance is a person longing for home.

Catch the final performances from March 27 to 29 at UP Diliman. It’s a chance not just to support student theater, but to sit with a story that mirrors our own—and perhaps, understand each other a little better because of it.

Tickets are available via https://bit.ly/AngKaliitanNgKasalukuyan2026

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