Actor McCoy de Leon steps into a transformative role in his latest project, In Thy Name, where he portrays the martyred priest Fr. Rhoel Gallardo, a Claretian missionary who served in the Basilan community in Mindanao.

On social media, De Leon shared photos of himself in clerical clothing, offering a glimpse into this powerful character.

“Si Fr. Rhoel Gallardo ay isang Claretian priest na naglingkod sa Basilan. Masiyahin na pari si Father — palaging nakangiti at self-spoken,” De Leon wrote in the caption, describing the late priest’s cheerful and gentle nature.

(Fr. Rhoel Gallardo was a Claretian priest who served in Basilan. Father was a cheerful priest — always smiling and self-spoken)

The actor also paid tribute to Fr. Gallardo’s unwavering faith and sacrifices:

“Noong 2000, dinukot siya ng Abu Sayyaf. Sa kabila ng hirap at torture sa pagkakabihag, nanatili siyang matatag sa kanyang pananampalataya. Itinuturing siyang martir ng simbahan dahil sa kanyang sakripisyo at tapang para sa kanyang misyon,” he shared.

(In 2000, he was kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf. Despite enduring hardship and torture in captivity, he remained steadfast in his faith. He is regarded as a martyr of the church for his sacrifice and courage for his mission)

De Leon also posted a teaser for the film, which is inspired by true events.

Joining him in the cast are JC De Vera, Mon Confiado, Jerome Ponce, Yves Flores, and Aya Fernandez. In Thy Name is directed by Ceasar Soriano and Rommel Galapia Ruiz.