Francis Ho, producer of the upcoming film "1521," has contacted Bea Alonzo's team after their on-set controversy in 2023.

During a roundtable interview at the Viva Office in Pasig City, Francis took full responsibility for their issue.

"I apologize for my limited knowledge and experience as a first-time producer. I made some calls na hindi nakatulong sa kanya, and I take full responsibility for that. I hope she accepts my apology because I didn't intend to do that," Francis said. 

(I apologize for my limited knowledge and experience as a first-time producer. I made some calls that didn't help her, and I take full responsibility for that. I hope she accepts my apology because it wasn't my intention to do that) 

Francis also added that they tried to reach out to Bea's team several times to patch things up. 

"I did reach out to her camp several times, and, sadly, we had to reach this point," he added. 

Francis also clarified that there was no bad blood between him and Bea's manager, Shirley Kuan. 

"By the way, on a personal note. Ms. Shirley is a family friend, hindi ko po siya kaaway. Her family would spend time in America, hang out, and go places. Kaya, I just want everyone to know na hindi ko siya ka-away", Francis said. 

(By the way, on a personal note. Ms. Shirley is a family friend; she is not my enemy. Her family would spend time in America, hang out, and go places. So, I want everyone to know that I am not against her.) 

Although there is still no response from Bea's team, Francis compliments the actress for portraying Diwata. 

"Si Ms. Bea, it has always been a dream to work with her kasi nakita ko yung track record niya magaling naman talaga siya. I mean, like stellar yung performance niya. I admire her; she's a great actress; there are times during the production when I will tell her exactly napakagaling mo," Francis said. 

(I have always dreamed of working with Bea because I saw her track record; she is really good. His performance was stellar. I admire her; she's a great actress; there are times during the production when I will tell her exactly how good you are.)

'1521' in new perspective 

Francis was willing to take a risk by dabbling in the world of film. In writing the story of "1521," he highlighted the beauty of the Philippines and love for freedom. 

"I just wanted to be clear that 1521 is not a historical documentary. It's a historical drama, action, and romance. The battle is historical, but the love story is fictional," he said.

“1521” is a historical drama that tells of a beautiful love story between a native princess and a Spanish translator while highlighting the epic heroism of Datu Lapu-Lapu and his courageous warriors against Magellan and his conquistadors in the historic Battle of Mactan in April 1521. 

Aside from Bea playing Diwata, another film highlight is Hollywood star Danny Trejo, who portrays Magellan. 

According to Francis, Danny resonated with Magellan's character when he wrote the script. 

"Danny read the script, and he resonated with it. Kasi Magellan is a big figure in history, and for him, playing the role was a big honor. Alam niya na hindi siya yung bida, but he really loved it," he said. 

(Danny read the script, and he resonated with it because Magellan is a big figure in history, and for him playing the role was a big honor. He knew that he was not the hero, but he loved it) 

Francis also mentioned that he accompanied Danny from America to the Philippines to ensure everything was safe.

"Ang concern niya lang is yung safety niya, that's why I flew with him from LA to Manila, to make sure that he's comfortable. Pero nagulat kami kasi pagdating namin sa airport kilala siya nung mga tao," he added.

(His only concern is his safety; that's why I flew with him from LA to Manila to make sure he's comfortable. But we were surprised because people knew him when we arrived at the airport.)

Viva Films, the Philippines' leading film production and distribution company, announced that it will distribute the groundbreaking film 1521: The Quest for Love and Freedom. 

Directed by Michael Barder, "1521" will be shown in cinemas nationwide on June 5. The film also features Michael Copon as Lapu-Lapu, Hector David Jr. as Enrique, Vic Romano as Udong, Costas Mandylor as Lorenzo, and more.