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McCoy de Leon endured both physical and emotional challenges in his portrayal of Father Rhoel Gallardo in "In Thy Name," a historical drama that brings to life the true story of the Claretian priest's abduction by the Abu Sayyaf in Basilan back in 2000.
McCoy de Leon embraces the role of abducted Claretian priest Father Rhoel Gallardo INSTAGRAM PHOTO/MCCOYDELEON
De Leon's role pushed him to his limits as he was subjected to grueling, high-intensity scenes — including being beaten, kicked and even spat on — all the while embodying the faith of Father Rhoel.
During the talkback after the red carpet screening of the film, de Leon admitted that embodying such a character took a toll on him.
"Actually, [the experience] was truly crazy. But my faith helped me through it. I sought guidance from God and Father Rhoel to help me get through and deliver this film. If you notice, Father Rhoel was always quiet. I portrayed him in a subdued manner because, based on our research, he was a very soft-spoken person. I thought about how to make him appear strong, and the answer was his unwavering faith," de Leon said.
He added that he consciously suppressed his emotions in scenes with fellow captives, only allowing himself to break down in private moments.
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"When I felt like crying, I held it back. I didn't want the other survivors to see me cry. I would only let my emotions out when I was alone. In a way, I felt connected to Father Rhoel — not by blood, but by spirit. It's actually easier to play a villain, but it's harder to portray someone who is truly good," he added.
Veteran actor Mon Confiado, who plays Abu Sabaya, the ruthless spokesperson of the Abu Sayyaf Group, also shared insights into his intense scenes with de Leon. He commended the latter's dedication, especially during a crucial confrontation.
"I'm grateful to our directors for giving us the freedom to execute that scene. It was one long take, just me and McCoy. We only did two takes. I told McCoy, 'I don't know where this is going, but I will kick you, punch you — I don't know how strong — but it might be hard.' And I think I did hit him quite hard. But I admire McCoy's professionalism. I knew he was in pain. From the first kick, he was already on the ground. I was striking his face without holding back. He just took it. That was how we portrayed the complete degradation of Father Rhoel's dignity," Confiado said.
Executive producer and director Ceasar Soriano hopes that "In Thy Name" will inspire Filipinos of the priest's resilience and unwavering faith.
"This film is a love story — God's love story through Father Rhoel Gallardo. I'm sure it will inspire a lot of people. It started as just a small idea, and now, seeing all the actors, the hostages, the military who once rescued Father Rhoel, and the production team bring this to life — it gives us hope. As we celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope, this film delivers that message to all of us," Soriano said.
Co-directed by Rommel Galapia Ruiz, "In Thy Name" also stars John Estrada, Jerome Ponce, JC De Vera, Arron Villaflor, Gold Aceron, Martin Escudero, Pen Medina, Yves Flores, Alex Medina, Ynez Veneracion, Aya Fernandez, Soliman Cruz, Elora Españo, Kat Galang, Ana Abad Santos, Richard Quan, Kenken Nuyad, Cassy Lavarias and JM Soriano.
Produced by GreatCzar Media Productions, "In Thy Name" is now showing in cinemas nationwide.
