GMA Network’s acclaimed animated documentary “58th” continues its impressive international festival run after taking home three major awards at the 3rd Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) in Hollywood, including Best Picture in the Documentary category.
Produced by GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs, “58th” revisits the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre, regarded as the deadliest attack on journalists in history. Through a powerful combination of animation and archival footage, the film tells the story of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, whose remains were never recovered and whose family continues to seek official recognition of him as the massacre’s 58th victim.
Adding to the film’s victories, acclaimed filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa 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 contribution and dedication to the project.
“58th” also marks the final film performance of the late Ricky Davao, who portrayed Reynaldo Momay. The film stars Glaiza de Castro, alongside Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez.
The film was produced by GMA Public Affairs SAVP for Documentaries Johnson Tam and Program Manager Ian Simbulan.
The latest MIFF recognition adds to the growing list of international achievements for “58th.” The film was previously recognized at the 2026 Doc Edge Festival in New Zealand and made its world premiere at the 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), becoming the first GMA-produced film to screen at the prestigious festival. It was subsequently named among IFFR’s Top 10 Audience Choice Films.
“58th” also made history as the first GMA Network film selected for the 2026 Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, where it competed under the Contrechamp Feature Films category. Its international journey continues with a scheduled screening at the 31st Busan International Film Festival this October.
In the Philippines, the animated documentary premiered at the 2026 Cinemalaya Film Festival last August.
The film was also recently shortlisted as a contender for the Philippines’ official submission to the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards, further cementing its growing recognition on the global stage.
