Execution

Five years to the day that thirty-two journalists were massacred, we re-created the crime scene through life-size paper-mache sculptures made from newspapers. It was featured on all major Filipino newspapers, and broadcast on primetime television. The message reached 24 million Filipinos – one in four of the population. And the day after the commemoration, the Communications Secretary of the Philippines reversed his previous statement that media killings are “not really that serious," declaring that the government was determined to see justice done.

The Brief

This crime scene recreation commemorating thirty-two massacred journalists was held at a joint press conference of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines and the International Federation of Journalists. The life-size papier-mache sculptures made from newspapers directly talked to all the major Philippine news outlets. This use of targeted media ensured that the message of the installation would reach as many Filipinos as possible.

Creative Execution

Five years to the day that thirty-two journalists were massacred, we re-created the crime scene through life-size papier-mache sculptures made from newspapers. This installation showed the different states that the thirty-two bodies were found in. With newspapers representing the profession that the victims lived and died for. The materials decayed over time, showing how the issue is slowly disappearing from memory. The installation was held at the national monument for heroes during a joint press conference of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines and the International Federation of Journalists. It was viewed by local and international press. Victims’ family members. And journalists who had escaped the massacre.

Describe the creative solution to the brief/objective.

Filipinos don't see why they should care about a case that has dragged on for five years. But public outrage is the only way to get a case moving in the Philippines. We needed them to remember their initial shock at the scale and brutality of the massacre.

Results

Covered by all major Filipino newspapers and broadcast on primetime television, the installation's message reached 24 million Filipinos – one in four of the population. And the day after the commemoration, the Communications Secretary of the Philippines reversed his previous statement that media killings are “not really that serious," declaring that the government was determined to see justice done.