A lot of our cinematic history has been lost to time and neglect, but a restored film by a renowned national artist is making a comeback. Former Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) chair Liza Diño-Seguerra announced on Aug. 29 that Gerardo de León’s “The Moises Padilla Story” has been digitally restored in 4K and will open this year’s Film Industry Month celebration.
“The Moises Padilla Story” is a biopic about a mayoral candidate who was tortured and murdered by a political rival in 1951. Starring Leopoldo Salcedo, the 1961 film deals with themes of power, greed, and violence—all which are still relevant to this day.
De León was awarded the title of National Artist for Cinema in 1982, a year after his passing. He was the creative mind behind classic ’50s and ’60s films like “Daigdig ng Mga Api,” “Noli Me Tangere,” “El Filibusterismo,” and “Sisa.”
Many other films still need restoration after years of neglect, but this is a sign our local film industry is heading in the right direction.