Nagulat ang Lahat! Pinagbuhusan ng Galit ni Apo ni Manuel L. Quezon si Jericho Rosales at Jerrold Tarog sa Screening ng ‘Quezon’—Ano ba Talaga ang Nangyari sa Likod ng Eksena na Ikinagulantang ng mga Manonood.

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The screening of the historical biopic Quezon took an unexpected turn when Ricky Avanceña, grandson of former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon, publicly confronted the film’s lead actor Jericho Rosales and director Jerrold Tarog. The incident occurred during a post-screening Q&A session held at a cinema in Makati on October 22, 2025.

A Heated Exchange

According to reports, Avanceña took the microphone during the discussion and questioned Director Tarog about the film’s intent. When Tarog confirmed that the film was intended as a political satire, Avanceña expressed his displeasure, calling the portrayal of his grandfather a “joke.” He accused the filmmakers of mocking Quezon’s legacy and producing the movie for profit and fame.

Rosales, who portrays President Quezon in the film, attempted to defuse the situation by reminding Avanceña to respect the time allotted for other audience members. However, Avanceña insisted on finishing his statement, accusing the filmmakers of disrespecting his family’s legacy.

Public Reaction

The confrontation quickly gained attention on social media, with many expressing support for Avanceña’s defense of his grandfather’s legacy. Others, however, questioned the appropriateness of his outburst during a public event. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about the balance between artistic interpretation and historical accuracy in film.

Filmmakers Respond

In response to the criticism, TBA Studios, the production company behind Quezon, issued a statement defending the film’s historical foundation. The studio emphasized that while the film includes fictional elements for dramatic purposes, it is grounded in verified historical accounts, including President Quezon’s own autobiography and other reputable sources. They added that a companion book and study guide were produced to provide context and further information.

Director Jerrold Tarog explained that the film was meant as a public conversation rather than a condemnation, aiming to present a nuanced portrayal of Quezon’s life and leadership. Actor Jericho Rosales echoed this sentiment, stating that he sought to portray Quezon as a complex individual, acknowledging both his achievements and flaws.

Legacy and Controversy

The incident has raised important questions about the role of descendants in shaping the narrative of historical figures and the responsibilities of filmmakers in portraying such figures. While some view the film as a valuable contribution to understanding Philippine history, others feel that it oversimplifies or misrepresents the complexities of President Quezon’s life and leadership.

As the debate continues, Quezon remains a significant work that challenges audiences to reflect on the complexities of historical figures and the ways in which their legacies are portrayed in media.