Over the past decade, a cinematic tapestry of epic historical narrative has left a spellbinding connection with a majority of Filipino audiences. As the curtains rise on the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival, anticipation rises for a new historical masterpiece destined to rekindle the flames in the hearts of its audiences — ‘GOMBURZA.’
Dubbed as the biggest historical film of the new decade, ‘GOMBURZA’ is set to reawaken the Filipinos’ burning passion for national justice, equality, truth, and independence as it presents a cinematic presentation of the fateful lives and martyrdom of the three Catholic priests – Fr. Mariano Gomes, Fr. Jose Burgos, and Fr. Jacinto Zamora (GOMBURZA).
Produced by JesCom Films, the producer of the award-winning film ‘Ignacio De Loyola’ (2016), and MQuest Ventures of MediaQuest, in cooperation with CMB Film Services, the newest feature film about the consequential story of ‘GOMBURZA’ sheds light on a crucial chapter in Philippine history — emphasizing the significant roles the three martyred priests played during the Spanish colonial period. This epic film is a journey through time, offering a fresh perspective on a critical period in Philippine history.
‘GOMBURZA’ presents the noble vision of internationally acclaimed director Pepe Diokno, together with renowned thespians Mr. Dante Rivero, Cedrick Juan, and Enchong Dee who play the titular roles, respectively. Together, they bring these historical figures to life with authenticity and a wholehearted desire for truth and national enlightenment.
The story revolves around the time when Padre Pedro Peláez (played by Piolo Pascual) began and led the secularization movement. Through this movement, the priests inspired the educated middle class as well as the liberal intellectuals and students, including the brother of Jose Rizal, Paciano Mercado (portrayed by Elijah Canlas). The advocacy for the Filipinization of the Church continued despite the execution of Gomes, Burgos, and Zamora as their death never silenced the enlightened.
The GOMBURZA execution in 1872 was the inspiration of Jose Rizal in writing his novel ‘El Filibusterismo,’ and also sparked the Philippine Revolution that was led by Andres Bonifacio and the Katipunan. National Artist for Literature Nick Joaquín even said, “If there is a date we can designate as the beginning of a nationalist consciousness, it is February 17, 1872.”
This historical drama, aside from three lead actors, brings together a powerhouse cast with outstanding actors and actresses who will make their mark in their special roles: Pascual, Canlas, Khalil Ramos, Ketchup Eusebio, Epy Quizon, Jaime Fabregas, Tommy Alejandrino, Neil Sese, Arnold Reyes, Nanding Josef, Paolo O’Hara, Sue Prado, Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, Sheenly Gener, Elora Españo, and more. The film is also the second collaboration of Diokno with multi-awarded cinematographer Carlo Canlas Mendoza.
Biopics such as ‘Heneral Luna,’ ‘Goyo,’ and ‘Quezon’s Game’ have artfully etched their stories into the cultural consciousness of their viewers which inspired a profound sense of patriotism and nationalism. This 2023, “GOMBURZA” aims to give the three martyred priests the proper admiration and recognition they rightfully deserve.
