GMA's '58th' breaks barriers at Rotterdam Film Festival

Kapuso actress Glaiza de Castro has shared her excitement after attending the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) in the Netherlands, where the GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures documentary film "58th" premiered last January.

- ROBERT REQUINTINA

The movie "58th" revisits the Maguindanao Massacre through the story of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, recognized as its 58th victim.

Directed by Carl Joseph Papa, 58th stars Glaiza as Reynafe Castillo, Momay's daughter, whose story reflects the family's enduring grief and pursuit of justice following the tragedy.

Blending animation with archival footage, "58th" retells the tragedy for a new generation, ensuring the victims’ stories are not forgotten. The film is also the final project of the late Ricky Davao, who portrayed Reynaldo Momay. The supporting cast includes Mikoy Morales, Marco Masa, Zyren Dela Cruz, and Biboy Ramirez.

While in the Netherlands, Glaiza was accompanied by Nessa Valdellon, Senior Vice President of GMA Public Affairs and Executive Vice President of GMA Pictures, and director Carl Joseph Papa.

The selection of "58th" marks the first time a GMA Network film has been chosen for screening at IFFR, highlighting the growing global recognition of Filipino storytelling. Founded in 1972, IFFR is one of the leading international film festivals, deepening appreciation for film in all its forms. It also actively supports emerging and adventurous talent through initiatives such as CineMart, the Hubert Bals Fund, Rotterdam Lab, and other professional programs. "58th" screens as part of IFFR’s official selection, alongside a diverse lineup of socially relevant films in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

The 2026 edition of IFFR also featured other Filipino films, including “Quezon,” “Moonglow,” “First Light,” "I Grew an Inch When My Father Died,” “Noodles,” "Our Love Was Instant and Forever,” and “Daughters of the Sea.”