The controversial life and career of Colonel Hansel Marantan — now serving as Acting Director of the Police Peace Development Center — will be the focus of the upcoming documentary ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa‘, set to premiere in Philippine cinemas on August 13.
Sa Likod ng Tsapa (Beneath the Badge) is an action-packed docudrama about Police Colonel Hansel Marantan, a battle-scarred police officer accused and imprisoned for an operation gone wrong. He confronts the system that betrayed him as he seeks redemption and justice in a nation torn between loyalty and law.
Written and directed by former journalist Editha Z. Caduaya, the film examines six major and controversial incidents that marked Marantan’s years in service. These include the Valle Verde and Parañaque shootouts, a series of bank robbery cases, and other high-profile operations that drew public attention and divided opinion.
Speaking at the film’s press conference on July 22 in Quezon City, Marantan addressed long-standing criticisms against him. “Well, there’s redemption already kasi the court has spoken. Na-exonerate na po kaming lahat,” he said. “We follow the process of the …judicial system. Sabi ko nga we swallowed the pill of how bitter it was and how bitter it is, we swallowed it. Kaya nagpakulong kami e. 5 years under incarceration. What more do they want? And then the exoneration from the regional trial court speaks for itself.”
“Feeling ko na nilalait ako? So, it’s not a good feeling. It’s a thing that you don’t like it. But do I have a choice? It’s there already. I have to fight it out. But we know that fighting it out you have to do it by peace. A victory is coming in by peace. Kaya nga from 2005 now it’s 2025, it’s 20 years already of fighting. Pero nakuha yung redemption 20 years after,” he added.
Meanwhile, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Nicolas Torre invited the public to watch the film, calling it a powerful look at the challenges and triumphs of police officers in the line of duty. He said it highlights the discipline, excellence, and rigorous training of PNP personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting the Filipino people.
“This movie reflects the discipline, excellence, and relentless commitment of our police officers to safeguard lives and uphold peace and order,” Torre said.
Catch ‘Sa Likod ng Tsapa’ in cinemas nationwide starting August 13, from POP Moviehouse and Newsline Philippines, distributed by Solar Pictures.
TATAK MNL 
Leave a comment