Jesuit Communications’ (JesCom) second major motion picture, GomBurZa, added to its growing list of accolades by claiming seven prestigious awards at the 26th Gawad PASADO (Pampelikulang Samahan ng mga Dalubguro) Awards, held on October 12, 2024, at the Philippine Christian University campus. The awards, conferred by educators from various institutions nationwide, honor Filipino films that contribute to teaching valuable lessons in social sciences, language, arts, and humanities.
GomBurZa, a historical epic produced by JesCom Films in partnership with MQuest Ventures of MediaQuest and CMB Film Services, won the top prize, PinakaPASADOng Pelikula ng Taon (Best Film), along with six other major awards: PinakaPASADOng Direktor (Best Director) for Pepe Diokno, PinakaPASADOng Aktor (Best Actor) for Cedrick Juan, PinakaPASADOng Katuwang na Aktor (Best Supporting Actor) for Enchong Dee, PinakaPASADOng Disenyong Pamproduksyon (Best Production Design) for Ericson Navarro, PinakaPASADOng Sinematograpiya (Best Cinematography) for Carlo Canlas Mendoza, and PinakaPASADOng Tunog (Best Sound) for Albert Michael Idioma, Emilio Bien Sparks, and Jannina Minglanilla.
These prestigious awards reflect GomBurZa’s lasting impact, not only as an artistic achievement but as a powerful educational tool that highlights the enduring legacy of the three martyred priests—Fr. Mariano Gomez, Fr. José Burgos, and Fr. Jacinto Zamora—whose execution in 1872 catalyzed the Filipino struggle for independence.
A Tribute to Excellence
The 26th Gawad PASADO Awards was also a heartfelt occasion, reuniting the film’s lead actors, Cedrick Juan (Fr. José Burgos), Enchong Dee (Fr. Jacinto Zamora), and Filipino screen icon Mr. Dante Rivero (Fr. Mariano Gomez). Rivero, who portrayed the senior Fr. Gomez, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his outstanding contributions to Philippine cinema.
“Maraming salamat sa lahat ng dalubguro ng Gawad PASADO,” expressed Cedrick Juan on social media. “Napakalaking bagay na ang pagkilalang ito ay mula sa mga guro, mga bayani ng ating panahon na tumutulong humubog sa kabataan,” emphasizing GomBurZa’s goal to preserve and teach the legacy of the three priests who fought for equality, comparing their role to that of today’s educators.
A Cultural Triumph
GomBurZa, dubbed the “Biggest Historical Film of the New Decade,” is a crucial cultural offering that counters historical revisionism while highlighting the Church’s role in shaping the Philippine nation. As JesCom’s second major film, it has already made waves in the Philippine film industry, previously winning five titles at the 40th Luna Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Diokno.
The film’s producer and JesCom’s Creative Director, Ms. Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin, also expressed her gratitude to PASADO via Facebook, saying, “Lumalagablab na pasasalamat po para sa mga pagkilalang ito! Nakakataba ng puso!” She lauded the recognition from the country’s educators, further affirming GomBurZa’s role in sparking meaningful conversations about history and patriotism.
A Continuing Legacy
As the awards season draws to a close, GomBurZa’s success at the 26th Gawad Pasado solidifies its place as one of the most celebrated Filipino films in recent history. Available for streaming on Netflix, the film continues to inspire audiences worldwide with its themes of courage, sacrifice, and national pride. By reminding Filipinos of the significant contributions of Fr. Gomez, Burgos, and Zamora, GomBurZa ensures that their legacy remains a guiding light for generations to come.
This victory marks another milestone for JesCom Films and the mission of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus’ media arm, to produce meaningful content that educates, inspires, and uplifts the Filipino spirit.
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