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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Movies and TV devider MOVIEGOER: Alden is Jose Rizal, Gerald is Emilio Jacinto

MOVIEGOER: Alden is Jose Rizal, Gerald is Emilio Jacinto

Published Jul 24, 2026 07:58 am  |  Updated Jul 24, 2026 04:47 pm
Alden Richards and Gerald Santos (Facebook)
Alden Richards and Gerald Santos (Facebook)
International theater actor Gerald Santos can’t be more than thankful enough for the shower of blessings his first major film project has been receiving from everywhere.
Take for instance the growing star power in casting that his producers have assembled. Aside from a number of big, reliable names in the ensemble cast, production recently enlisted the special participation of Alden Richards in the role of Dr. Jose Rizal.
Gerald takes on the titular role of National Hero Emilio Jacinto in "Liwanag at Dilim (Heneral Emilio Jacinto)," the maiden offering of Prinstar Film Productions.
The film signals the directorial debut of Antonino Rommel Ramilo, Gerald’s longtime manager, who also wrote its screenplay. It is also in celebration of Gerald’s 20th anniversary in entertainment.
Santos is supported by a powerful ensemble that includes Sid Lucero, Angel Aquino, Mercedes Cabral, Aljur Abrenica, Aicelle Santos, Ima Castro, Isay Alvarez, Robert Seña, Nikko Natividad, Alexa Miro, Jayson Gainza, Alex Medina, John Achaval, among others.
While the name Emilio Jacinto figures in textbooks and some mentions in history, little is known about this man, who’s considered the Brains of the Katipunan. Ramilo says Jacinto, one of the youngest generals of the Katipunan, authored the "Kartilya ng Katipunan," the moral compass and code of conduct of the Katipuneros. Despite his youth, he served as a highly trusted advisor to Andres Bonifacio.
Jacinto wrote under the pseudonyms Pingkian and Dimasilaw.
Ramilo sets the film on the last few weeks of Jacinto’s life in Majayjay, Laguna as he struggled against malaria, a communicable disease that could threaten lives then. He was nursed by his wife, Catalina de Jesus, until his death at the tender age of 23. The film’s principal photography, using locations in Tanauan, Batangas and nearby Laguna, is expected to wrap this week.
Ramilo says "Liwanag..." is a tribute to Emilio Jacinto, an almost forgotten hero who was ahead of his time.
“He was a revolutionary figure who stood firm on his principles and patriotism.”
Ramilo is a medical doctor-turned- creative. Prior, he has directed a good number of concerts and events featuring Gerald.

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