This month, Philippine history is gaining prominence and initiating insightful conversations on politics and social justice through Quezon, the third installment of TBA Studios’ Bayaniverse cinematic universe (which also includes Heneral Luna and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral). Numerous Filipino films and TV shows have consistently paid tribute to our past through the years, and Quezon has taken it a step further with its sharp social commentary and inspiring storytelling.
Photo: TBA Studios/YouTube
In just two weeks, Quezon has achieved box office success and earned multiple achievements in the process. Upon the film’s premiere on October 15, 2025, it quickly became the highest-grossing movie that week across over 300 cinemas in the country.
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TBA Studios’ three-part Bayaniverse has played a great role in the ongoing success of Quezon. Though each film in the franchise was released years apart, they share the same goal of deepening historical and cultural awareness among Filipinos.
There’s no better time than now for us to fully appreciate the Bayaniverse and its profound tributes to Philippine history. In light of Quezon’s premiere last week, Gateway Cineplex 18 is bringing Jerrold Tarog’s critically acclaimed cinematic universe back on the big screen with exclusive screenings of Heneral Luna, Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, and Quezon that you can watch with your family and friends.
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Every conversation we have about the Bayaniverse (and Filipino films, by extension) is already part of history in the making. Here’s why Quezon and the Bayaniverse as a whole are well worth your time, money, and trip to the cinemas:
Three Movies Starring Three Remarkable Leaders
Tarog’s Bayaniverse films don’t follow the linear timeline that most movies with prequels and sequels typically abide by. You don’t need to watch the three movies in a particular order, but it’s crucial to take note of the eras and historical milestones that define each part.
We first learned about the Bayaniverse in 2015 through Heneral Luna, which follows the titular historical figure, General Antonio Luna (John Arcilla), and his unshakable resistance in fighting for the country’s freedom during the Philippine-American War.
Three years later, we learned about the life of “Boy General” Gregorio del Pilar (Paulo Avelino) in Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, where he emerged as one of the youngest soldiers who took part in the monumental Battle of Tirad Pass.
Finally, Quezon showcases the pivotal moments in Manuel Quezon’s life, portrayed by Jericho Rosales, as the incoming second president of the Philippines. The vivid and quick-witted film thoughtfully preserves Philippine history while allowing viewers to reflect on the country’s past through a critical lens.
When History and the Arts Collide
Before the Bayaniverse reached Philippine cinemas, we may have just known about the three films’ protagonists as notable names and faces in our school textbooks. Tarog’s three-part cinematic universe lets us explore these historical figures beyond what is written about them in books and quizzes.
As Antonio Luna, Gregorio del Pilar, and Manuel Quezon come to life on the big screen, we start to understand them as human beings—not just names and faces from centuries ago that we had to memorize for assignments and tests. Their respective films don’t just portray them as leaders, but as husbands, friends, and Filipinos like us who also strive for a hopeful future where good governance prevails.
Besides brushing up on Philippine history, the Bayaniverse also challenges us to determine what constitutes a Filipino hero—especially amid deep-seated corruption and systemic injustice. The Quezon trailer said it best: numerous public figures know how to lead the nation, but only a few have the competence and compassion to serve the Filipino people.
A Newfound Appreciation for Historical Filipino Films
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We don’t know exactly where Filipinos’ historical narratives will end up next. However, the Bayaniverse assures us that the voices and identities of our past are still present as ever today.
The Department of Education (DepEd) even recognizes Quezon as a meaningful learning opportunity for students. In a recent advisory, DepEd considered the film “designed to strengthen historical awareness, civic education, and appreciation of the arts among Filipino learners,” as the movie is also committed to making Philippine history more accessible for future generations.
Moreover, TBA Studios is offering special discounts for students and teachers who will watch Quezon on the big screen. Their tickets will be priced at ₱250 upon presenting their school IDs at their chosen cinemas.
ALSO READ: LOOK: “Heneral Luna” Marks 10th Anniversary With Star-Studded Bayaniverse Photoshoot
Have you already watched all three Bayaniverse films? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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