Contributed by Sandy Cagurangan
Broken homes can leave deep emotional scars that often shape a person’s life, yet many in the Philippines remain unaware of the grave impact these family problems have on individuals growing up. When the foundation of a stable family is fractured, children frequently carry unseen burdens — struggling with pain and identity while trying to find their place in a world that may overlook their silent suffering. Despite the prevalence of such experiences, the emotional toll of broken homes is rarely acknowledged openly, making stories like “Aking Mga Anak” all the more vital in shedding light on these hidden wounds.
The emotional indie film “Aking Mga Anak” had its premiere last August 4 at SM Megamall, leaving many teary-eyed and moved by its raw, real take on what it’s like growing up in a broken home.
Directed by Jun Miguel and produced by DreamGo Productions, the film is distributed by Viva and officially hits theaters nationwide on September 3.
The movie follows several kids from different families, all dealing with the pain of a home that’s no longer whole. Their stories show how each one of them tries to cope whether by fighting back, running away, or simply trying to survive. It’s a deeply honest take on how children carry the weight of family issues, often in silence.
The film introduces Jace Fierre in one of the lead roles, alongside a talented mix of rising stars from the indie scene Hiro Magalona, Patani Dano, Alejandra Cortez, Natasha Ledesma, Madisen Go, Candice Ayesha, Ralph Dela Paz, Andrea Go, Sarah Javier, Juharra Asayo, and Cecille Bravo.
Cecille Bravo’s performance stood out among the new actors as she played the role of a tough landlady caught in the middle of one family’s chaos. She’s not just an outsider, she’s a mother too, and her role shows how people outside the immediate family also get pulled into the emotional mess.
At the premiere, Cecille got real about seeing herself on the big screen for the first time. “Hindi naman talaga ako artista, medyo mahirap rin yung role at ngayon sabihin ko po talaga sa inyo na kabado ako. Hindi ko malaman kung excited ako, natutuwa ako, o gusto ko nang maiyak. At ito na, this is it. Dito titingnan niyo na ang acting ko, sasabihin niyo na talaga if I did a good job, and hopefully I did. I tried my best talaga.” Her honesty hit home, showing just how much heart she put into the role, despite not coming from a traditional acting background.
Cecille Bravo
“Aking Mga Anak” goes beyond just being another family drama. It’s a powerful reminder of how many children silently suffer through family struggles, and how love, pain, and hope can still survive in the middle of it all.
The film opens in cinemas on September 3, 2025.
