Proud and beyond excited — this is how actor McCoy de Leon described his emotions as he walked the red carpet at the premiere of his new Viva Films movie, In Thy Name.

De Leon portrays Fr. Rhoel Gallardo, a Claretian missionary who dedicated his life to serving the Basilan community in Mindanao and was martyred for his faith.

"Napaka-espesyal po nitong pelikulang ito kasi parang mayroong puwersa na gusto naming ituloy ito at maging engrande. Hindi ito simpleng pelikula. Nangangarap kami na ito ay maging iconic na film at tumatak lalo na sa mga Pilipino dahil si Father Rhoel ay inilalakad na maging beatified at maging santo — ang pangalawang santo ng Pilipinas," he said in an interview with the press during the premiere night.

("This film is very special because it feels like there is a force pushing us to continue and make it grand. This is not just any ordinary movie. We dream for it to become an iconic film that will leave a lasting impact, especially on Filipinos, because Fr. Rhoel is in the process of being beatified and could become the second saint of the Philippines.")

De Leon believes the timing of the film's release is significant, as the Catholic Church begins the Lenten season. The movie conveys the powerful message of Fr. Gallardo’s unwavering faith and sacrifices.

"Siyempre, napakasarap sa pakiramdam na bahagi ako nito at ako ang mukha noon. Kaya ibinigay ko ang buong puso at kaluluwa ko sa pelikulang ito para maihatid ang tamang mensahe. Hindi ko masasabing magugustuhan ninyo, pero sana tumatak ito sa inyo at maka-touch sa inyong faith ngayon," he expressed.

("Of course, it feels incredibly fulfilling to be part of this film and to portray such a meaningful role. That’s why I gave my whole heart and soul to this project, just to deliver the right message. I can’t say whether people will like it, but I hope it leaves an impact and touches their faith.")

For De Leon, this movie serves as a way to introduce Fr. Gallardo’s story not just to Filipinos but to the world.

"Totoo, kasi sabi ko nga, based on true stories talaga si Father Rhoel, na hindi pa kilala ng lahat. Ito 'yung paraan para maipakilala natin siya hindi lang sa Pilipinas kundi sa buong mundo," he said.

("It’s true — this is really based on true events. Fr. Rhoel is not yet widely known, and this is our way of introducing him, not just to the Philippines but to the whole world.")

Joining De Leon 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.

In Thy Name opens in cinemas this 5 March 2025.