Renowned Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz is once again bringing Philippine cinema to the global stage. His latest work, Magellan, has been officially chosen as the Philippines’ entry to the 98th Academy Awards. The Film Academy of the Philippines announced the selection during the Philippine Film Industry Month 2025 celebration spearheaded by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). The film will represent the country in the Best International Feature Film category, one of the most competitive and closely watched awards in the Oscars.
Global Acclaim and Strong Support
Magellan has already earned international recognition, premiering earlier this year at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received a five-minute standing ovation. To bolster its Oscar campaign, the FDCP confirmed that Diaz’s team will be awarded a ?1 million grant through its Oscars Assistance Program, a fund dedicated to supporting Filipino films vying for recognition on the world stage.
The film features an international and local ensemble cast led by acclaimed Mexican actor Gael García Bernal as Ferdinand Magellan and veteran Filipino actor Ronnie Lazaro as Raja Humabon. Joining them are Dario Bernal, Angela Ramos, Amado Arjay Babon, Mario Huerta Castro, Ivo Arroja, Tomas Alves, Bong Cabrera, Hazel Orencio, Sasa Cabalquinto, and Rafa Siguion-Reyna.
Diaz Continues Legacy of Critically Acclaimed Cinema
Lav Diaz, known for his lengthy, thought-provoking films such as Norte, the End of History and Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis, has long been recognized as one of the Philippines’ most influential auteurs. His works often explore historical and social struggles, making Magellan a fitting addition to his body of work.
The film was selected over several strong contenders, including Green Bones, Hello, Love, Again, Food Delivery, Sunshine, Song of the Fireflies, and Some Nights I Feel Like Walking. With its critical acclaim and international support, Magellan is poised to bring renewed attention to Philippine cinema at the Oscars.
