A recent Q&A session for the third movie of the Bayaniverse trilogy 'Quezon', took a dramatic turn when former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon's gransdon, Ricky Quezon-Avancena, confronted director Jerrold Tarog and lead star Jericho Rosales.
The confrontation happened on Thursday, October 23, in Makati City at a special screening. The session became tense when Avancena held the microphone to challenge the director's portrayal of his grandfather.
He questioned whether the film was intended as a political satire, to which Tarog affirmed.
"Ang tanong: Was it a political satire?" asked Avancena.
"Yes," Tarog confirmed.
Avancena later concluded that Tarog was only “joking” with the film's portrayal: "So nagbibiro ka lang pala," to which the director immediately clarified: "No, the topic is serious."
Avancena then expressed his disapproval, calling the film "a joke." Tarog insisted that it was for the viewers to conclude if it is satire or not. "We will leave that to the audience to decide... if it's something that they would want to process.”
The director’s explanation was then cut by Avancena pointing out the production's intention, accusing the filmmakers of disrespecting his grandfather's legacy.
"Sinalaula niyo ang alaala ng aking lolo," he pointed out.
Avancena then turned into the audience saying: "Wag nating pagpapaniwalaan, joke pala ito. It's a joke, it's satire."
READ: TBA Studios shares why Jericho Rosales landed the lead role in ‘Quezon’ instead of TJ Trinidad
Jericho could not help but to intervene, attempting to redirect the conversation and allow other audience members to ask questions. However, Avancena persisted, demanding more time to voice his objections.
"Teka lang, Echo, hindi pa ako tapos e," Avancena persisted.
"With all due respect, sir. I understand your feelings but this is a Q&A for everyone. We are giving everyone a chance because everyone – " Jericho explained.
"Hey dude, listen to this, you were jumping around – No listen to me!" Avancena interrupted the actor.
"We're gonna listen to you but there is a space and time – " Jericho attempted to explain before he was cut off again.
"Uy Jericho wag mo 'kong ganyanin ah. Umupo ka, patapusin mo ako. One minute I'm done," Avancena insisted.
The production team tried to ease the tension and asked other audience members for their questions. At the same time, Avancena further claimed that the film "opened Pandora's Box" and criticized the production for tarnishing Quezon's memory.
READ: 'Quezon' review: Jericho Rosales embodies flawed, fiery leader
Jericho once again tried to intervene, but Avancena shut him down, wanting to end his stance with the remaining time. Before ending his statement, Avancena claimed that the filmmakers and the cast members defamed their family for commercial gain.
"Hindi niyo alam ang ginawa niyo. Dahil kayo, gusto niyong kumita ng pera. Gusto niyong sumikat. Sinalaula ninyo ang alaala ng isang pamilyang nagbuwis ng buhay... Mahiya kayo!"
Avancena concluded his criticism with foul words directed at the production team, saying that he is channeling his lolo. He then walked away, dropping the microphone on the floor.
Later, on social media, Avancena clarified that he was not urging people to avoid the film but called on the public to watch it and join him in defending his grandfather's honor online. He emphasized that former President Manuel L. Quezon was not just a hero but "the best ever most incorruptible" president.
Reacting to the viral video posted online, he wrote in another post: "The makers of Quezon, writers, producers, actors and Director Tarugo [Tarog] can dish it out, but cannot take it. They peddle lies and filth but do not have the artistic and moral integrity to stand by their work, claiming it was political satire, which roughly translates into 'joke lang'. And then they wouldn't let me interact?"
As of this writing, the filmmakers and cast of Quezon have not yet shared their sentiments with the public in relation to the heated argument posted online.
READ: 'Quezon' film holds red carpet premiere
Quezon, produced by TBA Studios, delves into the life of the second Philippine president, highlighting the rivalries he navigated during his rise to power. The film premiered in Philippine theaters on October 15, 2025, and has sparked discussions about historical representation and the responsibilities of filmmakers in portraying national figures.
—By Alyana Cabuhat De Guzman