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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures documentary film '58th' to hold world premiere at 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam

GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures documentary film '58th' to hold world premiere at 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam

Published Dec 20, 2025 11:48 am
GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures’ animated documentary film “58th” has been officially selected to make its World Premiere at the 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR).
“58th” honors the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre - one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history - and brings to light the story of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, the 58th victim of the massacre.
The selection of “58th” marks the first time a GMA Network film has been chosen for screening at IFFR, a milestone that reflects the growing global recognition of Filipino storytelling.
“Impunity in the Philippines persists because we keep allowing it to happen. Producing ‘58th,’ which we have been planning for over a decade, is an act of resistance. It’s a reminder to our countrymen that forgetting is dangerous,” says Nessa Valdellon, GMA Public Affairs’ head and GMA Pictures executive vice president. “We are currently submitting it to international festivals to share this important story with the world while we plan its local release. I cannot wait for the Filipino audience to see it.”
“58th” is directed by award-winning filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa. This is Papa’s second appearance at IFFR following Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing), which premiered at the festival in 2024 and was the Philippines’ official entry to the 2023 Academy Awards for Best International Feature.
“We are honored to premiere ‘58th’ at the IFFR, one of the biggest film festivals in the world,” says Papa. “Our core mission for this film is twofold: to give voice to those who have been silenced and to stand in solidarity with those who are still fighting for justice. And we are thankful that IFFR is our first avenue to pursue our mission.”
The Rotterdam premiere represents a significant achievement for GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures, reinforcing their commitment to producing socially relevant films that resonate both locally and globally.
Combining animation with archival footage, “58th” retells the tragedy for a new generation—many of whom may be unfamiliar with the events—ensuring that the victims’ stories and their continued pursuit of justice are not forgotten.
“58th” also holds special significance as the final film of the late Ricky Davao, who portrayed Reynaldo Momay.
Glaiza De Castro leads the cast with Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez. The film is creatively produced by Public Affairs AVP for Documentaries, Johnson Tam, with Program Manager Ian Simbulan.
Founded in 1972, the International Film Festival Rotterdam is known for championing bold and innovative cinema from around the world. This year, the festival will take place from Jan. 29 to Feb. 8, 2026, in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. (Robert Requintina)
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