Carla Abellana, JM De Guzman, and Cesar Montano topbill timely Sinag Maynila entry ‘Selda Tres’
These past few weeks, Filipinos have been engaging in passionate discussions about systemic corruption and injustice that pervade the government. Last Sunday’s protests waging war against corruption are proof of the people’s hunger for change. These conversations highlight the nation’s urgent need for stories that not only entertain but also educate and inspire on realities. Selda Tres, a new film that echoes these very themes, invites viewers to contemplate the ongoing struggle for fairness and truth.
Selected as one of five finalists at the Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival 2025, Selda Tres also serves as a call for awareness. The festival, running from September 24 to 30 across multiple venues in Metro Manila, showcases Filipino films pushing creative boundaries and addressing pressing social issues.
Led by a stellar cast including Cesar Montano, Carla Abellana, and JM De Guzman, the film is produced by Five 2 Seven Entertainment. It was written by Eric Ramos and directed by GB Sampedro.
Selda Tres tackles the seemingly endless problem of justice and corruption. Its story follows Julius, a law firm messenger who is wrongfully imprisoned due to mistaken identity. While behind bars, he forms a bond with fellow inmates, known as “Tropang Tolongges,” each facing their own hardships. Once Julius is eventually acquitted, he dedicates himself to helping his friends fight to clear their names and confront a corrupt system that continues to oppress them. As the film’s tagline states, “Hustisya? They say it’s only for the wealthy. Sometimes, some get away with it, and justice seems unfairly out of reach. But ultimately, the truth has a way of setting people free. Can ordinary individuals still achieve justice against the odds?”
The film’s logline captures this tale — “A former inmate, now working as a law office messenger, becomes a key part of a legal battle to free his former cellmates, fighting corruption and injustice from within.”
Supporting the lead cast are talented actors including Aaron Villaflor, Kier Legaspi, Victor Neri, and others, portraying characters that embody resilience and hope.
Director GB Sampedro shared his vision, “‘Selda Tres’ is a story that seeks to uncover the search for justice amidst a corrupt environment. It sheds light on the systemic issues plaguing our society while also exploring themes of family, loyalty, and sacrifice.” His filmmaking journey includes Astig, which earned him Best Director at Cinemalaya, and international recognitions in festivals across Rome, Geneva, Osaka, and Barcelona.
During the press conference, the film’s stars Carla Abellana, JM De Guzman, and Cesar Montano spoke passionately about their involvement. Carla, who portrays Atty. Aika, shared her experience, “Hindi biro mag-play ng attorney, ang hirap ng jargons. As soon as maibigay ang script, inaaaral ko na.” Yet beyond the technical challenge, Carla emphasized the importance of the film’s message, “Hindi naman kailangan maging abogado para maka-relate, pero yung yearning to seek justice, lahat tayo meron nun. Injustice happens everyday. Dapat araw-araw nating pinaglalaban kung ano ang tama.”
Describing the project as a “milestone,” Carla expressed her hope that more Filipinos will watch Selda Tres than seek awards. She shared, “That alone is an award already. Pero mas gusto kong mapanood nila ang pelikula kaysa mag-earn ng awards.”
“Sana tuloy-tuloy ang pagboto nang tama,” Carla also expressed her strong support for the younger generation’s activism. “I cling to hope sa younger generations, mas vocal sila ngayon,” she said.
For those eager to catch a glimpse of the film, the trailer is available here:
In a country where the fight for justice is ongoing, Selda Tres is a powerful reminder that even in a flawed system, honesty and perseverance can ignite change — things we badly need these days.
Screening Schedule for ‘Selda Tres’:
September 24 (Wednesday)
- 12:30 PM at SM Fairview
- 8:00 PM at Gateway C17
September 25 (Thursday)
- 12:30 PM at Robinsons Manila
- 3:00 PM at Trinoma
- 5:30 PM at Market Market
- 8:00 PM at SM Mall of Asia
September 26 (Friday)
- 12:30 PM at Gateway C17
- 3:00 PM at Robinsons Antipolo
- 5:30 PM at SM Fairview
- 7:00 PM Gala Screening at Gateway C18
September 27 (Saturday)
- 12:30 PM at Trinoma
- 3:00 PM at SM Mall of Asia
- 8:00 PM at SM Fairview
September 28 (Sunday)
- 12:30 PM at Market Market
- 3:00 PM at Gateway C17
- 5:30 PM at Robinsons Manila
- 8:00 PM at Robinsons Antipolo
September 29 (Monday)
- 5:30 PM at SM Mall of Asia
September 30 (Tuesday)
- 12:30 PM at Gateway C17
- 5:30 PM at Robinsons Antipolo
- 8:00 PM at Trinoma
