Faith, Courage, and Legacy: Seeds of Peace Revisits Fr. Gallardo’s Life and Martyrdom
Published on April 2, 2026
By: Veronique Nazareno
During the height of conflict in Basilan, Father Rhoel Gallardo, CMF dedicated himself to the community through selfless love and sacrifices. Twenty-five years later, his story stands as proof that forgiveness is the true form of peace.
Set for its premiere this May, the Philippine documentary brings to screen the remarkable life of Fr. Gallardo, the Claretian missionary whose unwavering devotion to peace and community left an indelible mark on generations.
The film revisits the story of Fr. Gallardo. who was kidnapped in Basilan in 2000 and remained steadfast in his faith and mission until the end.
Leading the film is Zaijian Jaranilla (May Bukas Pa, The Silent Noise), taking on the role of Fr. Rhoel. He is joined by Ping Medina (Jose Rizal), Barbara Miguel (Nuwebe, Munting Heredera), Elora Españo (Her Locket, Tandem).
Directed by Rommel Galapia Ruiz, the documentary reflects the filmmaker’s long-standing commitment to socially resonant storytelling. With a background in both narrative cinema and documentary work, Ruiz approaches the project not merely as a chronicle of martyrdom, but as what he describes as an invitation “to become sowers of peace in our own time.”
"This documentary is my tribute to Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF, a Claretian missionary whose life embodied quiet strength and unwavering faith. As a member of the Claretian Missionaries, Fr. Rhoel lived his vocation not for recognition, but for service. His mission was rooted in compassion, dialogue, and a sincere desire to build bridges in communities wounded by division."
His works have won and been exhibited at various film festivals, including University of the Philippines Piling Obrang Bidyo, Cinemalaya Shorts, Gawad CCP, Cinema Rehiyon, Salamindanaw, and Precious Hearts Romances Presents.
Among his notable works are Andap (2013), Sinadya Kong Kalimutan Para Maulit ang Lahat (2016), Buhangin (2015), Natutulog Nating Kapon (2018), and Journey to Love (2018).
In 2025, he marked a milestone in his career with the release of his first feature film, In Thy Name, produced by Greatzar Media Production and Viva Films, which was screened in cinemas nationwide.
What makes Seeds of Peace especially compelling is the depth of collaboration behind it. The project is produced in close partnership with the Gallardo family and the Claretian Missionaries, ensuring that the documentary goes beyond public memory to reveal the deeply personal dimensions of Fr. Rhoel’s life as a son, a brother, and a missionary whose quiet courage became his greatest testimony.
As shared by Ruiz, "this film is not only about remembering a martyr. It is about rediscovering what it means to live with purpose. In a world where noise often overpowers truth, Fr. Rhoel’s life speaks softly yet powerfully: that real peace begins within, and from there, it transforms communities."
Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel Gallardo, CMF will premiere in Manila this May.
Executive produced by the Claretian Missionaries and Gallardo Family, with RSVP Film Studios, Tents by ECS, BBD Studio Lab.
For inquiries: seedsofpeacemovie@gmail.com
Photos courtesy of the production.