Have you ever watched a short documentary that made you pause and really think about life in your own community? That’s the magic of storytelling—especially when it comes from the fresh perspectives of young people. This year, DepEd Memorandum 081 s. 2025 invites schools and communities to join the much-anticipated DokyuBata Video Documentary Contest 2025, and the theme couldn’t be more inspiring: “KILOMETER 0: Mga Lokal na Kuwento para sa Pandaigdigang Adhikain at Pagbabago.”
What Is DokyuBata 2025?
DokyuBata is an annual video documentary competition organized by the National Council for Children’s Television (NCCT). Since its launch in 2017, it has become a platform for Filipino youth and adults to share authentic, thought-provoking stories through film.
Here’s why it’s so special:
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It gives students, educators, and even professionals a chance to create meaningful documentaries.
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It highlights child-friendly content that reflects real issues in communities.
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It connects local experiences to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In short, DokyuBata isn’t just about filmmaking—it’s about using the power of media to spark dialogue and positive change.
The 2025 Theme: Kilometer 0
The theme this year, “Kilometer 0: Mga Lokal na Kuwento para sa Pandaigdigang Adhikain at Pagbabago,” focuses on starting change from home. Think of Kilometer 0 as a symbolic starting point, reminding us that global progress begins with local stories.
The documentaries will revolve around the five SDG pillars:
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People – No poverty, zero hunger, good health, and quality education.
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Planet – Clean water, climate action, life on land, and life below water.
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Prosperity – Decent work, sustainable cities, clean energy, and innovation.
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Peace – Justice, equality, and strong institutions.
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Partnership – Collaborations that drive collective progress.
This theme pushes young filmmakers to bridge local truths with global aspirations.
Who Can Join DokyuBata 2025?
The competition is open to everyone—from children to adults. Entries can be individual or team efforts, with up to 10 members per team.
The divisions are:
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Children Division (12–17 years old): Up to 5 minutes.
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Young Adult Division (18–23 years old): 8–10 minutes.
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Adult Division (24 years old and above): 13–15 minutes.
Quick facts:
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No registration fee is required.
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Entries must be original, fact-based, and child-friendly.
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Deadline for submission: September 12, 2025.
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Awards ceremony: November 21, 2025.
Exciting Prizes Await
What makes this contest even more exciting is the recognition and opportunities for the winners.
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Major Awards: Best Documentary winners can take home up to ₱50,000 plus a trophy and certificate.
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Minor Awards: Categories like Best Story, Best Direction, Most Child-Friendly Documentary, and Audience Choice will also be recognized.
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Special Awards: The Gawad Ramon “Bong” Osorio honors filmmakers who continue to create impact beyond the screen.
Another cool perk? Award-winning entries will be featured on NCCT’s broadcast partners and online platforms—giving young filmmakers a national (and possibly global) audience.
Why DokyuBata Matters
What makes DokyuBata different from other contests is its mission. It’s not just about technical skills—it’s about ethics, truth, and values. Judges will look for how well the stories reflect Filipino values such as pagiging maagap, mahusay, mapagkakatiwalaan, and naninindigan.
This ensures that every documentary is not just well-made but also heartfelt, meaningful, and socially responsible.
Personal Insight
I love how DokyuBata highlights the power of local stories. Sometimes we think the biggest changes happen in faraway places, but really, transformation starts in our own barangays, schools, and homes. Watching these documentaries always makes me realize how creative and insightful Filipino youth truly are.
Ready to Tell Your Story?
The DokyuBata Video Documentary Contest 2025 is more than just a competition—it’s a call for young and passionate storytellers to put their lens on real issues that matter. From the smallest village to the busiest city, every story has the power to inspire action.
So, what local story would you tell if given the chance? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear them!