'Quezon' film outfit TBA Studios releases statement following Manuel L. Quezon's grandson's clapback of the movie

TBA Studios, the film production company behind "Quezon," has released a statement Friday following the incident at a screening and Q&A talk back involving a descendant of the former Filipino president.

"While we respect and understand his sentiments, we wish to reiterate that the film is grounded in verified historical accounts, including President Quezon’s own autobiography and other reputable sources," it said on social media.

The film outfit admitted that "the film includes fictional elements for thematic purposes" but that facts presented in the movie are "are easily verifiable through public records, online research, or library resources." 

 "To support further learning, the production has released a Study Guide and Companion Book with a comprehensive list of the books and references used in the film’s research," it added.

TBA Studios also took the opportunity to invite the public to watch "Quezon" and "form their own opinions and join the ongoing conversation about the film, our history, and how it continues to resonate today."

"We hope that 'Quezon' can continue to inspire meaningful dialogue, reflection, and a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past," it said.

At the Q&A portion of a screening, Manuel L. Quezon’s grandson, Ricky Quezon Avanceña, slammed the “Quezon” director Jerrold Tarog and its cast.

“What you have opened, Mr. Tarrog, is a Pandora’s Box," Avanceña said.

“Hindi n'yo alam ang ginawa n'yo. Dahil kayo, gusto n'yo kumita ng pera, gusto n'yo sumikat, sinalaula ninyo ang alaala ng isang pamilyang nagbuwis ng buhay,” Avanceña added.

In the now-viral video, Avanceña was seen throwing the mic before walking out.

He later took to social media to recount the confrontation, and said, “I'm not saying don't watch the movie, hayaan na natin kumita ‘yung mga bayarang p-ta na ‘yun sila. Watch it, and then join me in a social media defense mga Quezon followers.”

“Nobody said he was a hero, so labas sya sa kabaduyan ng 'Bayaniverse,'” he added. “He was a President, and the best ever most incorruptible.”

The last installment of the “Bayaniverse” trilogy, “Quezon” follows the life of Manuel L. Quezon, a lawyer and a soldier who became the President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines from 1935 to 1944. It is currently showing in 400 theaters nationwide.

— LA, GMA Integrated News