Jericho Rosales has been tapped by TBA Studios to portray former President Manuel L. Quezon in an upcoming historical film titled Quezon. The project will chart the life of the Filipino lawyer and soldier who led the Commonwealth from 1935 to 1944, offering audiences a closer look at a figure whose legacy continues to spark debate.
Directed and co-written by Jerrold Tarog—whose previous works include Heneral Luna and Goyo: The Boy General—the film is scheduled to begin shooting in March 2025, with plans for a domestic and international release later that year. As part of TBA Studios’ ongoing series centered on Philippine history, the film joins the studio’s celebrated “Bayaniverse” lineup.
Joining Rosales is a cast featuring actors from Tarog’s earlier productions. Mon Confiado returns to portray Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon’s rival, while Benjamin Alves plays a younger version of the president. The film also includes Karylle Yuzon as Quezon’s wife, Aurora; Romnick Sarmenta as Sergio Osmeña; JC Santos as Manuel Roxas; and Cris Villanueva as an older version of the fictional character Joven Hernando.
During a recent interview, Rosales remarked, “I feel so honored to be with this team. Coming to a script like this which is so potent and so entertaining, I feel so lucky and happy. Here, you will see Quezon as a person. He’s not written as a hero. He is cunning, he is charming, he is intelligent. Quezon is such an interesting character to play; there are so many things I can put into the role to build Quezon as a character. That adds to the pressure, but at the same time I am very excited.” His comments reflect the depth he intends to bring to a character known for his complexity.
Daphne Chiu, President and COO of TBA Studios, added, “We are honored to welcome Jericho Rosales as he leads the cast of Quezon. Jericho’s unbelievable screen presence has made him one of our best actors today, and we’re all looking forward to working with him and seeing how his artistry can give life to one of the country’s most charismatic yet divisive political figures.” The film carries support from the National Historical Commission for Culture and the Arts and the Film Development Council of the Philippines, ensuring that the historical narrative is both respectful and engaging.
As anticipation builds online—with fans expressing excitement over Rosales’ return to a major local film project—the production is seen as a significant moment for Philippine cinema. Industry observers await further casting news and production updates, keeping a keen eye on how this film will contribute to the conversation about the nation’s storied past.
