Twenty-six years after his death, the story of martyred Claretian priest Fr. Rhoel Gallardo is being retold through the voices of survivors, collaborators and those who knew him best.
A new documentary film, “Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel Gallardo,” revisits his 2000 abduction by the Abu Sayyaf terror group in Basilan, his months of captivity and his killing after he refused to renounce his faith.
The two-hour film was screened May 3 in Quezon City on the anniversary of his death.
Claretian missionaries, family members and collaborators attended the community screening, which organizers described as both remembrance and renewal of mission.
For the Claretian congregation, Gallardo’s life has become central to its understanding of service in conflict-affected areas in southern Philippines.
“We believe he was formed for this gift of martyrdom,” said Fr. Amado Tumbaga, provincial superior of the Claretians in the Philippines.
He said Gallardo’s witness continues to shape missionary work in Mindanao. The documentary, he added, underscores not only the priest’s suffering but also the resilience of communities in Basilan who endured violence and displacement alongside him.
“People think violence weakens faith, but in this case, it deepened it,” he said. “That is the irony. Amid suffering, faith, service, and commitment grew stronger.”
The film features testimonies from survivors of the kidnapping, family members, peace advocates, military personnel and even former Abu Sayyaf members. Together, they describe Gallardo as a shepherd who continued his ministry despite torture and isolation.
Actor Zaijan Jaranilla, who portrayed Gallardo, said the role required him to listen closely to survivors and carry their memories into his performance.
“I spoke with the survivors to understand his courage,” Jaranilla said. “In portraying him, I simply embraced who he was.”
For Gallardo’s family, the documentary reinforces a message they have carried for decades.
“Faith, hope and forgiveness; that forgiveness brought us peace,” said Jessie Gallardo, the priest’s brother, during the screening.
The Claretian order hopes the film will support Gallardo’s cause for sainthood while encouraging reflection on faith, reconciliation and peace-building.
Rather than a commercial release, the film is intended for community screenings in parishes, schools and institutions to promote dialogue on faith, suffering and reconciliation.
