February 2024 has been a month of remarkable achievements and recognition for “GomBurZa”, the compelling historical film produced by JesCom Films and MQuest Ventures of MediaQuest, in cooperation with CMB Film Services. Since emerging as the most-awarded entry at the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), JesCom’s gift to the Philippine Church and the entire nation continues to captivate audiences and inspire hearts well into the new year.
Hollywood Debut at Manila International Film Festival (MIFF)
From January 29 to February 2, “GomBurZa” graced the Hollywood stage at the inaugural Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), held at the prestigious TCL Chinese Theaters and the Directors Guild of America (DGA) on Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles. MMFF Best Actor Cedrick Juan and co-star Enchong Dee, along with MMFF Best Director Pepe Diokno and MMFF Best Cinematography recipient Carlo Canlas Mendoza represented the film at the festival’s events and screenings.
Mirroring its success at the 2023 MMFF, “GomBurZa” was again named “Second Best Picture” while Carlo Mendoza received the award for “Best Cinematography.” The film also claimed the “Audience Award,” a testament to its universal themes of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice resonating with Filipinos across the globe.
In a Facebook post, Cedrick Juan expressed his excitement, noting the significance of participating in the MIFF: “Elated to be part of the first Manila International Film Festival in Hollywood. Meeting our Filipino community in LA was such a momentous event for our local filmmakers. We are all hoping to broaden our reach on the world stage to showcase our talents and stories not just in the Philippines.”
Platinum National Media Awards
Back home, “GomBurZa” continued to shine, this time at the 2024 Platinum National Media Awards held on February 15th at the Trinity University of Asia. The film, recognized as the “Culturally Relevant Movie of the Year,” also secured “Best Film Actor” for Cedrick Juan’s powerful portrayal of Padre Jose Burgos.
Established in 2015, the Platinum Stallion National Media Awards aims to recognize individuals and institutions that inspire the Trinity University of Asia community for their notable contributions to the media industry.
Producers Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin (JesCom Creative Director) and Ernestine Tamana (JesCom Production Manager) received the awards on behalf of “GomBurZa.” Since its debut at the 2023 MMFF, and after a heartfelt public campaign to expand its screening, “GomBurZa” has consistently resonated with audiences, reigniting genuine interest in the heroic tale of the martyred priests Mariano Gomes, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora—who were unjustly executed in 1872.
Commemorating Heroism: Free Screening at the Metropolitan Theater
On the solemn occasion of the 152nd anniversary of the execution of Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, a free screening of “GomBurZa” took place on February 17th at the Metropolitan Theater.
Part of the “Kasaysayan sa Met” series, the event was organized in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and Local Historical Committees Network. The public screening was followed by an insightful Talkback Session, moderated by journalist Jervis Manahan, that featured Cedrick Juan, director Pepe Diokno, screenwriter Rody Vera, producers Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin and Ernestine Tamana, costume designer Steve Salvador, and sound designer Albert Michael Idioma. Historian Xiao Chua was also available to answer questions during the discussion, providing a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the heroic trio’s legacy.
Global Expansion: US and UAE Theatrical Run
As February bids farewell, “GomBurZa” gears up for another significant milestone. Starting February 23rd, the film is set to begin its theatrical run in US cinemas, followed by United Arab Emirates cinemas beginning February 29th- aiming to keep the flame of patriotism alive in the hearts of Filipinos across borders.
With each successful step, “GomBurZa” indeed continues to inspire, educate, and ignite the spirit of nationalism within every Filipino, both at home and on the global stage.
For more news and updates on “GomBurZa”, follow the film’s official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/GomBurZaFilm
