Hon. Marcos Mamay, Vice Mayor of Nunungan, is set to expand his filmmaking ventures with an exciting new project: the upcoming Mangyan movie, directed by Neal “Buboy” Tan and starring actor Ejay Falcon.

This collaboration under Mamay Productions aims to highlight Filipino talent while promoting meaningful stories that inspire, educate, and entertain.

“Collaborating with Ejay Falcon on Mangyan allows us to highlight Filipino talent while promoting stories that inspire, educate, and entertain,” Mayor Mamay said.

“This project represents the heart of Mamay Productions — empowering artists and sharing meaningful Filipino stories with the world.”

Mamay, who has built a career defined by peacebuilding, community development, and cultural advocacy, first rose to national attention through the biographical film "Mamay: A Journey to Greatness."

Born into poverty, he grew up selling secondhand clothes in Cagayan de Oro to fund his education. Surrounded by the cycle of rido (clan conflict) that has long haunted Maranao communities, he chose a different path — one of learning, service, and reconciliation.

As mayor of Nunungan for three terms, Mamay spearheaded infrastructure development, expanded access to education, and brokered peace in long-standing clan disputes.

Locals often credit him with achieving in a few years what previous administrations had failed to deliver in decades. Today, he continues this work as Vice Mayor, National Vice President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines, and President of the LMP Lanao del Norte Chapter.

At the heart of his leadership is a commitment to peacebuilding. Mamay has mediated family conflicts, fostered dialogue between Muslim and Christian communities, and positioned Nunungan as a beacon of reconciliation in Mindanao.

During the pandemic, Mamay also ventured into film production, founding Mamay Productions. He aimed to provide opportunities for artists who had lost their work, support the struggling showbiz industry, and encourage both moviegoers and producers to invest in quality Filipino films once again.

His inspiring journey is captured in "Mamay: A Journey to Greatness," directed by Neal “Buboy” Tan. The film portrays his rise from hardship to leadership, with Mamay himself serving as Assistant Director to ensure an authentic depiction of Maranao culture and traditions.

The film became a standout at the 73rd FAMAS Awards, winning five major awards — including Best Supporting Actor for Jeric Raval, as well as Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, and Best Musical Score. Its theme song, Hamon, composed by Vehnee Saturno and performed by Gerald Santos, earned the Best Original Song trophy.

The movie also received nominations for Best Picture, Best Actress (Ara Mina), Best Director (Neal “Buboy” Tan), Best Screenplay (Neal “Buboy” Tan), and Best Sound.

Aside from these major wins, Vice Mayor Mamay also received two special recognitions: Film Producer of the Year for Mamay Productions and a Presidential Award for his outstanding contribution to cinema and culture.

The film has since been endorsed by the Department of Education and the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos for nationwide screenings in schools.

"Mamay: A Journey to Greatness" is a star-studded film, headlined by Teejay Marquez as the young Mamay, together with Polo Ravales, Ali Forbes, Victor Neri, Julio Diaz, Sabrina M, Devon Seron, Ron Angeles, Jethro Ramirez, Alvin Fortuna, Dennis Coronel, Shiela Delgado, Baby F. Go, Via Veloso, Katrina Paula, Toni Co, Tonz Are, EJ Malik, Dan Mabano, and many more.

Aside from filmmaking, Mamay produces concerts and coffee table books. His upcoming ventures under Mamay Productions include movies such as OFW, One Life to Live, and Babae sa Salamin, with the Mangyan film featuring Ejay Falcon marking a significant addition to his mission of empowering artists and promoting meaningful Filipino stories.

Beyond politics, Mamay is also a cultural advocate. As Adviser to the Actors Guild of the Philippines, he champions opportunities for Filipino celebrities — especially Mindanao-based artists — believing that culture and cinema are powerful tools for education, peace, and unity.

For Mamay, true leadership is rooted in service. Whether through governance or film, he continues to champion peace, education, and cultural pride — values he hopes will inspire the next generation of Filipino leaders. (Robert Requintina)