A terrifying new Filipino suspense-thriller is set to hit the big screen as ‘Roots of Contagion’ prepares to deliver a chilling story centered on fear, survival, and public health awareness.
Produced by Pinoyflix Films and directed by Jose “JR” Olinares, the upcoming film explores a mysterious botanical outbreak inside Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba that slowly spreads terror among students and faculty members.
While rooted in suspense and horror, the film also carries a deeper advocacy-driven message about disease prevention, hygiene, sanitation, and emergency preparedness.
The screenplay was written by Prim Lamaroza together with SMPI, crafting a story that mirrors real-world anxieties surrounding biological threats and public health crises.
Leading the cast are Althea Ablan, Kate Yalung, John Arcenas, and Abdul Rahman.
Joining them are veteran stars Valerie Concepcion, Jeffrey Santos, Dindo Arroyo, Lovely Rivero, Sharmaine Suarez, Rob Sy, and Ramon Christopher Gutierrez.
According to the production team, the movie is not just designed to scare audiences but also to encourage awareness regarding health and community safety.
The film reportedly revolves around a dangerous plant species that appears to possess a life of its own, creating chaos and paranoia within the school campus.
Several institutions and organizations are also supporting the project, including Provincial Tourism of Laguna and the Calamba City Risk Reduction Management Office, helping ground the film’s themes in real-life emergency response protocols and preparedness efforts.
The production likewise partnered with Buenas Distribution Ventures Inc. and its NANO PROTECH brand to further strengthen the movie’s advocacy on hygiene and health protection.
Meanwhile, Hands of Our Children Movement Inc. was also named as the project’s beneficiary organization.
With its blend of psychological horror, campus suspense, and socially relevant themes, Roots of Contagion aims to leave audiences both terrified and reflective long after the credits roll.
The film is scheduled for theatrical release on September 30, with its premiere night reportedly set for September 26.
