Lovi Poe, Gina Pareño star as Gregoria de Jesus in 'Lakambini'

MANILA, Philippines, October 30 ------ After more than a century of being relegated to the footnotes of history, the legendary revolutionary heroine Gregoria de Jesus is finally front and center in her own film. This crucial historical correction, the meta-docu-fiction "Lakambini: Gregoria de Jesus," is set for release on November 5 nationwide ahead of its inclusion in the upcoming QCinema International Film Festival.

Revered as the Lakambini of the Katipunan, Oriang is among the three heroes honored this year by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), alongside Emilio Jacinto and Gregorio del Pilar. The film stars Lovi Poe, Elora Españo, and Gina Pareño as Oriang, Rocco Nacino as Andres Bonifacio, and the special participation of Spanky Manikan and Paulo Avelino as Oriang's second husband Julio Nakpil. "Lakambini: Gregoria De Jesus" blends her-story, interviews, anecdotes from descendants and historians, the voices of artists, and an unfinished biographical film narrative first shot in 2015 into a bold new cinematic format.

It reclaims Oriang's identity as a patriot, warrior, and woman leader (the literal translation of "Lakambini"), highlighting her indispensable role as the custodian of the Katipunan's secrets and weapons. The narrative showcases her perseverance in confronting not only the Spanish colonizers but also betrayal and political intrigue from her own countrymen.

Producer Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil describes Oriang's life as a testament to resilience, enduring political betrayal, and immense personal struggle. "Her unfinished quest for justice mirrors our own decade-long battle to bring this story to the screen. By weaving the two narratives, the film demonstrates that the struggles of the past are the inspiration for the present," she added. "Lakambini affirms that Filipino women are not just companions to heroes; they are revolutionaries themselves, limitless and unyielding."

Based on the Palanca Award-winning script by Palanca Hall of Fame awardee Rody Vera, the film is brought to life by award-winning filmmaker Jeffrey Jeturian and emerging creative director Arjanmar Rebeta, the latter calling the movie a "cultural reawakening." "We wanted to answer why her voice was silenced for so long. Oriang was a warrior whose courage didn't fit the mold history set for women," said Rebeta. "By bringing her words — her poetry, her letters, and her 'Ten Pieces of Advice to the Youth' — to life, we are challenging every Filipino to see that true heroism is boundless."

The film's release is supported by the NHCP and is poised to be an essential educational and cultural event, challenging the status quo and finally giving the Mother of the Revolution her rightful place in the national story.

Source: philstar.com