58th

November 23, 2009. The small rural town of Ampatuan, Maguindanao stunned the world and made headlines following the massacre of 58 people traveling in a convoy including 32 journalists. The Maguindanao Massacre stands as one of the most brutal acts of election-related violence and the deadliest attack on journalists in history. Fifty-seven bodies were recovered, but one victim remained unaccounted for: photojournalist Reynaldo “Bebot” Momay, whose body was never found and who remains missing to this day.

Throughout the years, one woman has stood with unwavering courage: Reynafe “Nenen” Castillo, a daughter who continues to fight for truth, justice and the rightful recognition of her father as the massacre’s 58th victim. This film follows Reynafe as she bears witness to her own strength, grief and unrelenting pursuit of justice in the face of profound loss.

Blending animation with archival footage, 58th revisits this pivotal chapter in Philippine history, introducing it to younger generations, those unfamiliar with the events and audiences around the world.

Through her personal journey, the film reveals the human cost of political violence while exploring enduring issues of press freedom, fragile democracies, election-related violence, impunity, justice and accountability—challenges that continue to resonate far beyond the Philippines.