Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival 2024

Bata Bata ka lang/ Just a Kid

"Bata, Bata Ka Lang" began with one question: how can a simple story spark big realizations? What started as a fun but challenging concept—a short musical film—blossomed into a powerful journey about friendship, hope, and finding your voice.

Created in collaboration with Francis Aben and Jeremi Quetua, this film explores the limitless imagination of children and the strength they find in standing up for what’s right. Told through song and stylized visuals, it reminds us that young people—though often underestimated—have the power to speak out, stand tall, and create real impact.

This is more than one child’s story; it’s a celebration of collective courage, a love letter to friendship, and proof that when kids recognize their rights and their voices, they can move mountains.

Winner of 4 awards in the 2024 Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival in the following categories:

•Best Musical Score - Kid, You're Just A Kid*/ Director Karl Cedrick Marquez

• Best Female Performer-Kid, You're Just A Kid/ Zoey Madison Lim

• Best Male Performer-Kid, You're Just A Kid/ Alexander Lucas Martin

• Best Short Film - Kid, You're Just A Kid

Director Karl Cedrick Marquez Best Short Film at the Las Vegas Filipino Short Film Festival, "Bata Ka Lang" follows a tight-knit group of young students from Barangay Malabanan as they face the heartbreaking news of their beloved school's closure. At the heart of the story is Naya—a spirited, outspoken girl—and her best friend, a kind-hearted gay boy who finds joy in school and deep admiration for his teachers. Together, they rally their classmates to speak up and take action, proving that even the smallest voices can spark powerful change. With crisp storytelling and an upbeat, heartwarming musical score, "Bata Ka Lang" is a moving celebration of friendship,