Production finally begins for the upcoming period film, GomBurZa, as its cast, crew, benefactors and partners gathered together for a send-off event at the Manila Cathedral, Thursday afternoon, February 16.
At the celebratory luncheon held at the Intramuros basilica’s Pope Francis Hall, Jesuit Communications (JesCom) introduced the guests in attendance to the stars of GomBurZa. Mr. Dante Rivero will play the role of Padre Mariano Gomez, while Cedrick Juan will portray Padre José Burgos. Enchong Dee will act as Padre Jacinto Zamora.
Meanwhile, joining the trio in his special participation as Padre Pédro Pelaez, is matinee idol Piolo Pascual.
Other actors joining GomBurZa’s roster of talents include Epi Quizon, Jaime Fabregas, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Khalil Ramos, Elijah Canlas, Neil Ryan Sese, Paolo O’Hara, Tommy Alejandrino, Gerry Kaimo, Dylan Tay Talon, Jomari Angeles, and Bon Lentejas.
Joining Director Pepe Diokno in representing GomBurZa’s production team were Executive Producer Fr. Roseller Atilano, SJ, Producers Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin and Ernestine Tamana, as well as Cinematographer Carlo Canlas Mendoza.
Before kicking off GomBurZa’s filming season, Fr. Atilano also presided over the send-off mass, where he reminded the cast and crew of the great significance of the three heroic priests’ sacrifice.
“I believe faith in God moved them to offer their lives for the country. Faith can be a source of courage for the nation,” expressed JesCom’s Associate Director in his homily.
“Our love for God, faith in God, is expressed in our love for his people and our nation.
Their act of sacrifice for the nation opened the eyes of marginalized Filipinos, like the young Jose Rizal, which then ignited the revolution.”
Photos courtesy of Manila Cathedral
GomBurZa’s send-off celebration comes a day before the 151st death anniversary of Filipino secular priests Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos and Jacinto Zamora. The three were executed by garrote on the 17th of February 1872, after being falsely accused of committing crimes against the Spanish government.
Set for release in late 2023, GomBurZa is JesCom’s second major motion picture following 2016’s internationally-acclaimed Ignacio de Loyola.
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