Contributor: Sandy Cagurangan
Christmas in the Philippines also marks the time for the annual tradition of Filipinos watching Metro Manila Film Festival entries. As a community, we have a lot of shared experiences. These include our memories with our teachers. This year, Toni Gonzaga and Joey De Leon topbill MMFF entry “My Teacher” which pays tribute to our unsung heroes. Directed by Toni’s husband Paul Soriano, the film also stars Ronnie Alonte, Loisa Andalio, Kakai Bautista, and Carmi Martin.
Produced under Ten17P and TINCAN, the film’s concept was the brainchild of Paul who wanted to honor teachers who go through a lot of challenges during this COVID-19 pandemic. The team also wants to explore how an elderly student who can easily adapt to modern society will deal with his classmates.
“Parang ang ganda sila bigyan ng tribute ngayong Pasko dahil for two years na nagturo sila
from online to face to face, and from back to normal, malaki din ang adjustment na ginawa nila
kaya maganda din na magkaroon tayo ng pelikula na cinecelebrate yung mga magigiting nating
mga guro.” Toni said.
According to Toni, she was grateful and really excited to shoot the film because she will be
working again with the veteran comedian actor Joey De Leon after many years. Toni started out in the
industry as one of the youngest hosts in the noontime show “Eat Bulaga” with main hosts Joey De Leon, Vic Sotto, and others.
This film promises to inspire and impart life-changing lessons. My Teacher opens in theaters nationwide on Christmas day, December 25, 2022.