Joross Gamboa tackles corruption and poverty in ‘Wantawsan’

Joross Gamboa delivers a subtle yet powerful social commentary on poverty in Puregold CinePanalo film.

Actor Joross Gamboa once again proves his versatility as he takes on a challenging and unconventional role in the 2026 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival entry “Wantawsan.”

Directed by Joseph Abello, Wantawsan is a full-length comedy-drama that follows a poor father who receives cash from a newly elected mayor he supported. When he attempts to buy food for his son’s birthday, he embarks on a humorous journey that ultimately puts his values and beliefs to the test.

Speaking with radar Entertainment, Joross opened up about the challenges of portraying his character, particularly the physical transformation required for the role.

“Lahat naman ng role challenging, depende naman ‘yan kung paano mo titimplahin. Ang mahirap lang sa kaniya ay makeup, kasi ilang oras rin kasi sa pagkulay pa lang ng buhok at pagkulay ng katawan, matagal na. Bukod doon, lahat ng scene namin kinuhanan tanghaling tapat,” he said.

Beyond its comedic elements, the film also touches on social and political realities, particularly the experiences of ordinary Filipinos and the consequences of blindly supporting corrupt politicians.

For Joross, confronting these realities should not be something people fear.

“Bakit naman nakakatakot ang katotohanan? ‘Yon naman kasi ang reality and realization ito para sa mga tao,” he said. “Kumbaga, ‘yong mga bulag na supporters ng mga corrupt na politicians, ito ‘yong journey nila para doon sa realizations nila. Subtle, pero deep inside magkakaroon ito ng impact sa kanila,” Joross added.

The actor also emphasized that “Wantawsan” does not rely on an overly direct approach in delivering its message. Instead, its storytelling allows the audience to reflect on the realities portrayed in the film.

“Hindi ito ‘yong direct, nonchalant ang atake dito and subtle ang storytelling dito, pero sumasalamin ’to sa buhay ng mga tao, lalo na ng mga mahihirap, kung ano ang pinagdaraanan nila,” he said.

In spite of the possibility of receiving an acting nomination for his performance, Joross remains focused on the story rather than the recognition.

“Never akong nag-expect, and ever since before. Mas higit sa akin ang istorya. It doesn’t matter kung mag-support ako, mag-lead ako. So all glory to God, and lahat ’to naka-base sa istorya,” he said.

“Wantawsan” is among the official entries in the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026, an annual festival dedicated to showcasing original Filipino stories while providing a platform for emerging filmmakers.

The film is set to premiere as part of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, which runs from September 23 to October 4.

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