GMA’s animated docu '58th' makes historic world premiere at 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam

An animated documentary from GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures,58th, has been selected for its world premiere at the 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), marking a historic first for GMA Network on the prestigious global stage.

The film revisits the Maguindanao Massacre, one of the most harrowing episodes in Philippine history, and centers on the story of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, widely regarded as the massacre’s 58th victim. Through its narrative, 58th confronts the enduring issue of impunity and underscores the dangers of collective amnesia.

“This film is an act of resistance,” Nessa Valdellon, head of GMA Public Affairs and executive vice president of GMA Pictures, said. “We have been developing 58th for more than a decade to remind Filipinos that forgetting allows injustice to persist. Bringing this story to international audiences is an important step as we prepare for its local release.”

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa, 58th marks his second appearance at IFFR. Papa previously premiered Iti Mapukpukaw (The Missing) at the festival in 2024, which later became the Philippines’ official submission to the Academy Awards for Best International Feature.

“Premiering at IFFR is a great honor,” Papa said. “Our goal with 58th is to amplify voices that were silenced and to stand with those still seeking justice. We are grateful that Rotterdam is the first platform to help us carry that mission forward.”

The film blends animation with archival footage to retell the tragedy for younger audiences who may be unfamiliar with the events, ensuring that the victims’ stories continue to resonate. 

58th also carries emotional weight as the final film appearance of the late Ricky Davao, who portrays Momay. The cast includes Glaiza De Castro, Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez. The project is creatively produced by Johnson Tam, assistant vice president for documentaries at GMA Public Affairs, with Ian Simbulan serving as program manager.

The selection of 58th underscores GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures’ commitment to socially relevant storytelling that reaches beyond national borders.

Founded in 1972, the International Film Festival Rotterdam is renowned for showcasing bold and innovative cinema. The 2026 edition will run from 29 January to 8 February in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.