Former ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11’ housemate JM Ibarra officially makes his lead acting debut in Cinemalaya as he takes on the titular role in the highly anticipated film ‘Child No. 82’, directed by Tim Rone Villanueva.
The film was formally unveiled on April 13, during its official press conference, with JM Ibarra joining a powerhouse cast that includes Vhong Navarro, Rochelle Pangilinan, Kai Montinola, Vance Larena, Irma Adlawan, Iyah Mina, Che Ramos, Donna Cariaga, Dexter Doria, and Zairene Fernandez.
‘Child No. 82’ is a fantasy dramedy that follows 16-year-old Max, a senior high school student believed to be the 82nd child of the late action-fantasy legend Maximo “Boy Kana” Maniego Jr. With his teenage girlfriend pregnant and his future uncertain, Max must reach the icon’s wake before the public viewing ends to confirm his paternity—and secure his birthright.
But getting to the casket won’t be easy, as he faces a legion of die-hard fans and a colorful set of “villains” hoping to say their final goodbyes.
“This is a major milestone for JM, stepping into his first full-length lead role in a Cinemalaya film,” said director Tim Rone Villanueva, who co-wrote the screenplay with Herlyn Alegre.
Villanueva is best known for his short film ‘Santa Nena!’ and is currently working on its follow-up, ‘Santa Isabel!’ set for release in 2026.
Produced by Arvin Belarmino and Johndel Tacata of Outplay Media Production, the film is co-executive produced by Cinemalaya, the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and other partners.
‘Child No. 82’ is set to screen as an official entry in Cinemalaya 2025, marking a fresh, genre-bending addition to this year’s festival lineup.
