Zaijian Jaranilla hopes ‘Seeds of Peace’ remains in MMFF line-up

MANILA — Actor Zaijian Jaranilla on Saturday expressed his hope that the film “Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF” will keep its place in the lineup of the 2026 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

Questions about the film’s eligibility surfaced online following reports that the meta documentary had already premiered earlier this year.

“Nakakapang-hinayang. Sana kung mabigyan naman ng pagkakataon, sana mag-push through parin. Pero sa ganoon pong usapin,  labas na po ako,” said Jaranilla during the premiere of “Guryon” in Quezon City.

“Sa producer na po usapan na ‘yun,” he added. “Pero sana po, ma-consider pa rin.”

Jaranilla explained he believes the festival would provide a valuable platform to share the film’s message with a wider audience.

“Malaking bagay po ‘yun … para mabahagi [ang] kwento ni Fr. Rhoel, sa family ni Fr. Rhoel,” he said. “Sana, suportahan ng simbahan natin at ng mga Pilipino.”

The Kapamilya actor admitted he was surprised but nevertheless thrilled when their meta documentary was announced as part of the 52nd MMFF.

“Hindi ko inakala papasok siya dahil meta documentary siya. Nagulat ko tinangap siya ng MMFF,” he said.

Jaranilla also addressed questions about his rumored relationship with actress Gela Atayde.

The pair had featured on Atayde’s TikTok post dressed as Meredith Grey and Derek Shepherd from “Grey’s Anatomy” for a Halloween event, set to the viral song “Na Para Bang.” 

“Para sa akin, wala naman thing na hard launch. Hindi mo kasi ma control masasabi ng ibang tao, bahala kayo kung ano,” said Jaranilla.