GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures’ animated documentary film “58th” has been officially selected for its World Premiere at the 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR). The film pays tribute to the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre, one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history, and tells the story of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, the massacre’s 58th victim.
The selection marks a historic first for GMA Network, becoming its first film to be screened at IFFR and underscoring the growing international recognition of Filipino storytelling.
“Impunity in the Philippines persists because we allow it to happen. Producing ‘58th,’ which we have been developing for over a decade, is an act of resistance and a reminder that forgetting is dangerous,” said Nessa Valdellon, head of GMA Public Affairs and executive vice president of GMA Pictures. “We are submitting the film to international festivals as we prepare for its local release, and I look forward to sharing it with Filipino audiences.”
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa, “58th” marks his second appearance at IFFR, following Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing), which premiered at the festival in 2024 and served as the Philippines’ official entry to the 2023 Academy Awards for Best International Feature.
“We are honored to premiere ‘58th’ at IFFR,” said Papa. “Our mission is to give voice to those who have been silenced and to stand in solidarity with those still fighting for justice. We are grateful that IFFR is the first platform to carry this message.”
The Rotterdam premiere is a significant milestone for GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures, reinforcing their commitment to producing socially relevant films that resonate with both local and global audiences.
Blending animation with archival footage, “58th” reintroduces the tragedy to a new generation, ensuring that the victims’ stories and their quest for justice are not forgotten. The film also marks the final screen appearance of the late Ricky Davao, who portrayed Reynaldo Momay. The cast is led by Glaiza De Castro, alongside Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez. The film is creatively produced by Johnson Tam, Public Affairs AVP for Documentaries, with Program Manager Ian Simbulan.
Founded in 1972, the International Film Festival Rotterdam is renowned for championing bold and innovative cinema worldwide. The 2026 edition will run from January 29 to February 8 in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
