Last week, the film “I Remember You” premiered in selected cinemas nationwide and showing till July 15. It is a powerful film that brings to light the unseen sacrifices and quiet strength of microfinance workers — our unsung heroes during the pandemic. Produced by BENTE Productions in association with Road One Pictures, the film celebrates hope, love, and the Filipino spirit of resilience.

Directed and written by veteran storyteller Boboy Yonzon, the film stars acclaimed actor JC Santos as Isagani Tenorio, a microfinance manager whose journey mirrors the lives of thousands of community workers across the country. With the multi-awarded Boy Yñiguez behind the lens, the visual storytelling is as compelling as the narrative, set against the stunning backdrop of Boracay.

Joining JC Santos are seasoned actors Shamaine Buencamino and Soliman Cruz, as well as fresh faces like Valeen Montenegro and Paulo Angeles. But what truly sets the film apart is the inclusion of local talents and staff of microfinance institutions, bringing authenticity and depth to the story. Their raw and heartfelt performances add texture to a film rooted in real-life experiences.

At its core, “I Remember You” is about second chances. From mending a broken relationship, rediscovering one’s dreams, or finding new purpose in life, the film explores the universal desire to begin again.

Set in post-pandemic Boracay, the film tells the story of people rebuilding their lives — emotionally, professionally, and spiritually. It is a story of love rediscovered, of inner strength uncovered, and of lives transformed through kindness and commitment.

Isagani Tenorio, the protagonist, is a composite character inspired by the many microfinance workers who served as frontliners during the most difficult days of Covid-19. These are the people who continued to visit communities, bring support, and offer hope — often while carrying their own burdens in silence.

One such person is Isidro Gabayno, Jr., who served as area manager in Boracay during the pandemic. While helping clients and communities recover, he quietly endured personal grief from the loss of a loved one. Instead of succumbing to despair, he used the pain as fuel to continue serving others. His story — and many others like it — became the emotional backbone of the film.

Boracay is more than just a beautiful location for this film—it is a character in itself. For many Filipinos, it’s a dream destination. For the people behind the film, it’s also a symbol of survival and rebirth.

“Boracay is where we witnessed both our clients and our own staff rise above the pandemic,” shared the producers. “This place holds stories of struggle and triumph. It is where we saw the strength of the human spirit at its finest.”

Choosing Boracay as the film’s main setting also reflects BENTE Productions’ commitment to supporting local tourism and showcasing the beauty of the Philippines in meaningful ways.

One of the most remarkable aspects of “I Remember You” is the decision to cast non-professional actors from across Panay island. After a series of open auditions and intensive training under respected acting coach Rolando Inocencio, the production brought together everyday people: students, drivers, vendors, and microfinance workers to perform on a professional stage.

This bold choice injected a layer of realism that no script alone could achieve. These individuals, many of whom lived through the same challenges depicted in the film, brought genuine emotion and lived experience to their roles. Their presence on screen does not just enrich the film — it empowers them as storytellers in their own right.

Though it contains romantic elements, “I Remember You” is much more than a love story. It is a reflection on purpose, service, and what it means to be part of a community. It reminds viewers that while we often look to heroes in grand gestures, true heroism can be found in the quiet persistence of ordinary people.

JC Santos’ portrayal of Isagani captures this beautifully — his character’s blend of vulnerability and strength resonated deeply with audiences during private screenings. Viewers saw in him the spirit of their neighbors, their friends, and their colleagues — people who may not make the headlines but keep society moving forward.

“I Remember You” will be made available in different streaming apps after its July 9-15 cinema release. An unforgettable cinematic experience, the film invites audiences to laugh, cry, reflect, and remember the stories that brought us here — especially those of resilience and sacrifice during one of the most trying times in recent history.

In a world eager to move forward, “I Remember You” resonates with the feeling of hope, love and renewal in difficult times. It gently asks us to pause, remember, and give thanks to those who helped us through — one second chance at a time.

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“Cinema is a mirror that can change the world.” – Diego Luna