GMA Public Affairs and GMA Pictures’ animated documentary film “58th” continues its international festival run after being officially selected to screen at the 2026 edition of Doc Edge Festival, New Zealand’s premier documentary festival and an Academy Awards-qualifying event.
The selection marks another major milestone for the film, following its earlier selections at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival and International Film Festival Rotterdam earlier this year.
Recognized globally as one of the leading platforms for documentary storytelling, Doc Edge is accredited by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, with winners in selected categories becoming eligible for Oscar consideration. The Doc Edge Festival showcases the best films from New Zealand and around the world and is committed to selecting high-quality films that demonstrate excellence in storytelling, celebrate diversity, and inspire social change.
“58th” revisits the Maguindanao Massacre, widely regarded as the deadliest attack on journalists in history, honoring the victims while bringing renewed attention to the case of Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, who is still seeking recognition as the 58th victim. The film is directed by award-winning filmmaker Carl Joseph Papa and features a stellar cast led by Glaiza de Castro.
By combining animation with archival footage, “58th” retells this important story for younger and international audiences. The film explores themes of press freedom, fragile democracies, election violence, impunity, and accountability — issues that continue to resonate around the world. Since its world premiere, the film has continued to gain attention from international programmers and audiences for its bold visual language and timely political resonance.
The film’s participation in Annecy, considered the world’s most important animation festival, and Rotterdam, known for championing bold and groundbreaking cinema, helped position “58th” among a new generation of daring international films. Its selection at Doc Edge further widens the film’s reach across major global documentary and animation festivals.
The Doc Edge Festival will take place from June 24 to July 12 in New Zealand. “58th” will be screened in Auckland on June 29 at 8:15pm and on July 2 at 6pm (Auckland time). For more news and updates, visit www.GMANetwork.com.
