Sinag Maynila entry 'Selda Tres' tackles corruption
Published Sep 23, 2025 08:31 am
Director and cast of 'Selda Tres' (from left): GB Sampedro, Cesar Montano, Carla Abellana, and JM De Guzman
Award-winning actors JM de Guzman, Carla Abellana, and Cesar Montano unite for the first time in Selda Tres. This action-drama film dares to confront the country’s justice system through the lens of fighting institutional corruption.
Directed by GB Sampedro, "Selda Tres" is one of five official entries to the Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival 2025, which runs from September 24 to 30 across select SM and Robinsons cinemas in Metro Manila. The film, produced by Five 2 Seven Entertainment, was written by Eric Ramos and executive produced by Sampedro and Alex Rodriguez.
At the heart of "Selda Tres" is Julius, portrayed by JM de Guzman - a humble messenger at a law firm who finds himself wrongfully imprisoned. During his time behind bars, he forms unexpected bonds with fellow detainees and emerges transformed by their shared struggle. They call themselves "Tropang Tolongges." Upon release, Julius dedicates himself to clearing their names and helping them find justice.
“I’ve had my own personal experiences that allow me to relate to Julius’ story of redemption and second chances,” JM shared during the film’s press conference.
Carla Abellana plays Atty. Aika Alta, a young, idealistic lawyer who becomes Julius’ ally, and eventually his love interest. “Atty. Aika believes in fighting for what is right and just,” said Carla. “You don’t need to be a lawyer to relate to her. As long as you’ve ever fought for your rights, you’ll understand her conviction.”
Meanwhile, Cesar Montano takes on the role of Lando, Julius’ estranged half-brother who becomes instrumental in uncovering the truth. “Lando carries guilt for not being there for his brother,” Montano explained. “But once he learns what happened, he becomes determined to help clear Julius’ name.”
The comebacking Cesar said he's happy with the casting. "Itong mga kasama ko magagaling. Sabi ko nga, sana makasama ko pa uli sila in the near future. Sa Selda Kuwatro naman," he quipped.
(My workmates are all good. As I told them, I hope that we can work again in the future. This time for Cell No. 4).
Cesar shared how personal the film’s themes are to him: “My father was a lawyer. I grew up listening to cases and legal matters. My role is to support Lando in his case."
According to director GB , the story of Selda Tres is "about the search forjustice in a world tainted by injustice.” He emphasized that although the film was not written with current events in mind, it coincidentally resonates with the present-day clamor for accountability and truth in the Philippines.
Director GB Sampedro
He agreed that "what’s happening now in our country makes the film more timely, “but he clarified that it wasn’t intentional."
Known for his versatility across film, TV, and advertising, GB is no stranger to tackling social themes. From "Astig" to "Separados" and "Love is Love", his body of work reflects a desire to provoke thought and spark dialogue.
“I want to portray the truth in whatever I do. That’s always been my standard - whether it’s a commercial, a corporate video, or a feature film,” he stressed.
Rounding out the cast are veteran performers Perla Bautista, Victor Neri, Aaron Villaflor, Jeffrey Tam, Kier Legaspi, Tanjo Villoso, and Johnny Revilla,to name Johnny Revilla, to name a few others. The director revealed thatthe ensemble was carefully selected, with several actors being long-time collaborators.
“I’ve worked with many of them in previous projects. They bring depth, professionalism, and experience,” he said. “Even Carla - this is our first film together, and I was very impressed.”
The chemistry among the cast was also evident off-camera. JM shared how honored he felt working with Carla and Cesar, both of whom have earned acclaim in film and television. “I was starstruck,” he laughed. “But they were so kind and collaborative.”
Carla, who has gained praise for her outspoken advocacy work, reflected on the film’s relevance and the responsibility artists carry. “Justice is something we should fight for every day, not just when it becomes trendy. I may not always be on the frontlines, but I use my voice whenever I can,” said the actress who has been christened by netizens as the "patron saint of accountability."
"Ako naman ay ipaglalaban ko po kung ano yung tama. Kung merong injustice man or makabuluhan na dapat pong ipaglaban, gagamitin ko ang aking boses atsaka pangalan. May opportunity ako, na pinapakinggan ako. So I try my best na gamitin ito sa tama," she remarked. (As for me, I will fight for what is right. If there is any injustice or meaningful cause that is worth fighting, I will use my voice and name. I am fortunate that people listen to me. So I try my best to use that for good.)
Cesar echoed this sentiment, stressing the power of meaningful storytelling: “We don’t just act for entertainment. We have a duty to inspire and inform. If we can touch even one person, then the film has done its job.”
For those interested in catching "Selda Tres," here's the film's screening schedule:
Sept. 24, 12:30 p.m. at SM Fairview and 8 p.m., Gateway C17; Sept. 25, 12:30 p.m. at Robinsons Manila, 3 p.m., Trinoma, 5:30 p.m., Market Market and 8 p.m., SM Mall of Asia; Sept. 26, 12:30 p.m. at Gateway C17, 3 p.m., Robinsons Antipolo, 5:30 p.m., SM Fairview and 7 p.m., Gateway C18 (gala screening); Sept. 27, 12:30 p.m. at Trinoma, 3 p.m., SM Mall of Asia and 8 p.m., SM Fairview; Sept. 28, 12:30 p.m. at Market Market, 3 p.m., Gateway C17, 5:30 p.m., Robinsons Manila and 8 p.m., Robinsons Antipolo; Sept. 29, 5:30 p.m. at SM Mall of Asia; and Sept. 30, 12:30 p.m. at Gateway C17, 5:30 p.m., Robinsons Antipolo and 8 p.m., Trinoma.