Jericho Rosales eyes Ishmael Bernal biopic after ‘Quezon’ win

Fresh off The Eddys Best Actor award, Jericho begins research for potential Bernal film written by National Artist Ricky Lee.

While Jericho Rosales continues to earn acting accolades for his portrayal in “Quezon,” the actor revealed he is already preparing for a potential new biographical project—this time on the life of late National Artist for Film and Broadcast Ishmael Bernal.

Jericho shared that he has been offered the role of the acclaimed filmmaker in an upcoming biopic, with a screenplay by fellow National Artist Ricky Lee.

Speaking to entertainment media on Sunday night following his Best Actor win for “Quezon” at the 2026 “The Eddys,” the actor said the project has yet to be finalized but admitted he already feels the weight of the role.

“Yes, I started researching already. One of my good friends is an apprentice of (filmmaker-producer) Ruel Bayani, and my writer friend Diego messaged me and said, ‘He’s one of my heroes. I can give you all the information.’ My friends are all excited and are already giving me materials to study,” he said.

“Well, there was an offer, yes, and my manager is fixing the details. Hindi ko alam kung mag-a-announce sila biglaan, but yes, it was offered to me. Safe to say na ngayon, the fact is that it was offered to me, pero wala pa kaming final dates, wala pa kaming final na nilatag. But I’m nervous,” he added.

Rosales described the opportunity to portray Bernal as both exciting and daunting, given the director’s immense contribution to Philippine cinema.

“I’m nervous. It’s another biopic and, for me, he’s a hero of Philippine cinema. I really hope that I will have the time and support para mag-prepare sa pelikula,” he said.

Even before the project moves forward, the actor said he has begun researching Bernal’s life and legacy with the help of friends in the film industry.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest filmmakers in Philippine cinema, Bernal directed more than 50 films, including classics such as “Himala,” “Manila by Night,” “Relasyon,” and “Broken Marriage.” 

Bernal’s body of work is known for its bold social commentary, complex female characters, and unflinching portrayals of urban life.

“Good things are happening, you know. Marami na rin akong ups and downs,” Jericho added.

Beyond the potential career milestone, Rosales also opened up about personal challenges, particularly involving his brother, Jeremiah, and their mother, who is battling Alzheimer’s disease.

“Life is like that. Ganyan naman ang buhay, dadaan at dadaan. I’m okay. We’re okay. My family is strong. We love each other, and ganyan lang naman ang buhay,” he said.

Despite these challenges, the actor expressed gratitude for the support of his girlfriend, Janine Gutierrez, whom he considers one of his strongest pillars.

“Of course, katabi ko palagi in the most difficult times. Not only because magkasama kami sa trabaho, but we spend a lot of time together with important things and not-so-important things. I’m super lucky. I say this all the time: I’m so lucky to have her in my life.”

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