One Meralco Foundation partners with JesCom to produce Jesuit founder’s biopic
SHOT in scenic Spain and featuring talented Spanish actors, it’s easy to mistake “Ignacio de Loyola” as a European flick, but it’s proudly Pinoymade, the first Filipino full-length movie to be shown at the Vatican. This film about a Spanish warrior, produced by Jesuit Communications (JesCom) and copresented by One Meralco Foundation (OMF) and the Jesuit Conference of Asia, follows the life of soldier, sinner, and eventual saint Ignatius of Loyola, who turned away from violence and debauchery to fully embrace the mission of obeying and serving God. Ignatius founded the Society of Jesus (members are known as Jesuits) in 1534 and dedicated the rest of his life for others. “Ignacio de Loyola’s” screenplay was written by director Paolo Dy, JesCom head Fr. Emmanuel “Nono” Alfon- so, SJ, and JesCom creative director Pauline Mangilog-Saltarin. The core production crew are all Pinoys.
“Meralco is proud to stand behind this epic film that brings St. Ignatius of Loyola closer to the younger generation, and one that highlights the talent and capabilities of Filipino filmmakers,” said OMF president Jeffrey Tarayao. “As copresentor of ‘Ignacio de Loyola,’ OMF’s vision is aligned with Ignatian values, specifically of being men and women for others.”
OMF chair Manny V. Pangilinan, vice-chair Oscar S. Reyes, and trustee Alfredo S. Panlilio are all from the Jesuit-run Ateneo de Manila University and are steeped in the order’s tradition of service to humanity.
The “Ignacio de Loyola” divine epic opens in Philippine theaters today. For more information about the film, check out www.ignaciomovie.com, facebook.com/ignaciomovie and follow @ignaciomovie on Twitter and Instagram.