Enrique Gil is closing 2025 with a renewed sense of openness — both in his career and personal life. During the promotional rounds for Manila’s Finest, the actor confirmed that he remains single but is hopeful that love may finally find him in the coming year.
“Wala eh (there is no one). We will see Hopefully maybe 2026. Maybe we’ll see… If it comes, it comes but I am open,” he shared, choosing honesty over evasion when asked about his current relationship status.
While his love life remains a waiting game, Enrique is diving headfirst into one of the most ambitious Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries of 2025. Manila’s Finest places him in the heart of a sprawling action-drama headlined by Piolo Pascual and directed by Cannes-winning filmmaker Raymond Red.
A film rooted in history, elevated by collaboration
Set in the late 1960s, Manila’s Finest follows Capt. Homer Magtibay (Piolo Pascual), a principled officer investigating a wave of brutal killings in Manila’s expanding slum communities. Alongside him is Enrique’s character, 1st Lt. Billy Ojeda, Magtibay’s trusted partner who helps uncover the deeper systemic decay plaguing the city — one tied to gang wars, organized crime, corrupt politicians, and even their own institution.
The film assembles a powerhouse ensemble that includes Ariel Rivera, Romnick Sarmenta, Joey Marquez, Soliman Cruz, Cedrick Juan, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Kiko Estrada, Rico Blanco and Rica Peralejo-Bonifacio in her celebrated big-screen comeback. The cast welcomes a new generation as well, with Ashtine Olviga, Ethan David, Dylan Menor, Paulo Angeles, Inday Fatima and Pearl Gonzales.
On set, younger cast members found themselves learning from industry giants. Ashtine Olviga recalled being in awe of Pascual’s discipline.
“Na-star struck ako kay Sir Piolo… every take papanuorin niya, hindi para makita sarili niya, para i-match continuity (I was star struck by sir Piolo… every take he watches, not so he can see himself but so that he can match the continuity),” she shared.
Cedrick Juan embraced the film’s heavy period setting. “Iba ‘yung pakiramdam ‘yung (it feels different) setting ay pre-martial law. I really had to study about the Philippine Constabulary,” he said.
Enrique’s new chapter: Professionally and personally
Manila’s Finest also marks Enrique’s first project under his multi-picture deal with MQuest Ventures —an opportunity he describes as both transformative and affirming.
“Being part of Manila’s Finest as my first film project under MQuest Ventures is really special. The whole experience… felt like stepping into another time,” he said. Working alongside Piolo Pascual, he added, felt like receiving an early Christmas gift.
“Billy looks up to Capt. Homer like an older brother, and I think that mirrors how I see Piolo in real life. I’ve always dreamed of working with him.”
Piolo, now on his third consecutive MMFF lead role, echoed the passion that binds the film’s ensemble.
“To be part of the MMFF for three years in a row is truly special… everyone was driven by the same passion to create something that feels big, bold and deeply Filipino.”
A cinematic vision brought to life
The film’s character-rich narrative is shaped by celebrated screenwriters Michiko Yamamoto, Moira Lang, and Sherad Anthony Sanchez. For Raymond Red, the project is a melding of strengths.
“What makes Manila’s Finest special is the collaboration… The challenge was to channel all that energy into one cohesive vision, and that’s what makes the film feel so alive,” the director explained.
Following the powerful legacy of MMFF standouts Gomburza and The Kingdom, Manila’s Finest positions itself as a modern Filipino epic — immersive, evocative and emotionally resonant.
As Enrique looks ahead to 2026 with openness in his heart and a landmark film under his belt, he steps into the new year with momentum and maturity — ready for whatever, or whoever, comes next.
Catch Manila’s Finest in cinemas nationwide starting 25 December, as part of the Metro Manila Film Festival.