GMA Network’s groundbreaking animated documentary “58th” adds three major accolades to its growing international trophy haul after winning at the 3rd Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Hollywood, including the Best Picture Documentary Award.
Produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs, “58th” revisits the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre, considered the deadliest attack on journalists in history. Combining animation and archival footage, the film centers on Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, whose remains were never found and whose family continues to seek official recognition of him as the massacre’s 58th victim.
Acclaimed filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa also received the Best Director award, while Reynafe Castillo, Momay’s daughter, was honored with the festival’s special Shining A Light award for her invaluable involvement and dedication to the project.
The film features the late Ricky Davao in his final film performance as Reynaldo Momay, with Glaiza de Castro leading the cast alongside Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez. “58th” was produced by GMA Public Affairs SAVP for Documentaries Johnson Tam and Program Manager Ian Simbulan.
The MIFF victories further strengthen “58th’s” impressive international festival journey. The film was previously recognized at the 2026 Doc Edge Festival in New Zealand and made history as the first GMA-produced film to screen at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), where it was later named among the festival’s Top 10 Audience Choice Films.
“58th” also became the first GMA Network film selected for the 2026 Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, competing under the Contrechamp Feature Films category. It is set to continue its international festival run at the 31st Busan International Film Festival this October.
In the Philippines, “58th” premiered at the 2026 Cinemalaya Film Festival last August and was recently shortlisted as a contender for the country’s official submission to the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards.
