Laguna student-artists bring hidden mental health struggles to the stage

Rosa Artes’ student-artists tackle bullying, trauma and the “masks” people wear in an original psychological drama in Santa Rosa City.

The battles people fight behind closed doors will take center stage in Santa Rosa City, Laguna, as a community theater group composed mainly of student-artists tackles mental health, bullying and trauma in an original psychological drama.

Rosa Artes is set to stage “SILID 13” on September 26 and 27, 2026, at Gabaldon Hall of Santa Rosa Elementary School Central 2.

At the center of the story is Lihim, a 19-year-old student struggling to understand his emotions while confronting different sides of himself.

His journey explores the “masks” people wear to conceal pain and trauma, as well as the personal battles that can remain invisible even to those around them.

Through Lihim and the other characters, “SILID 13” hopes to encourage conversations about mental health and emphasize that emotional well-being deserves attention rather than silence.

The production comes as theater continues to gain renewed interest in the Philippines. While much of the industry remains concentrated in Metro Manila, community-based groups are helping bring original productions closer to audiences outside the capital while creating opportunities for local performers.

For Rosa Artes, “SILID 13” marks its first step toward building that kind of theater community in Santa Rosa.

The play is written and directed by longtime theater artist Joanne Beato-Caringal, with Rein Martin Ramos serving as assistant and technical director and John Francis Alinsod handling musical direction.

Performances are scheduled at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on September 26 and 27 at Gabaldon Hall, Santa Rosa Elementary School Central 2, Santa Rosa City, Laguna.

Tickets are priced at ₱200. Reservations and inquiries may be made through Rosa Artes at 0977-628-1036.

Updates are also available through the group’s official Facebook page.

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