Pepe Diokno (director)

Pepe Diokno is a Filipino film director, producer, and screenwriter known for his socially conscious and critically acclaimed films. Born on August 13, 1987, he is part of a prominent Filipino family with a history of public service and activism. His grandfather was Senator Jose W. Diokno, a human rights lawyer and political figure during the Marcos regime.

Diokno's directorial debut, Engkwentro (2009), won the Lion of the Future Award at the Venice Film Festival and marked him as a promising voice in Philippine cinema. The film explores the dark realities of extrajudicial killings in the Philippines through the story of two young gang members.

He followed Engkwentro with Above the Clouds (2014), a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the Cordillera mountains. This film was also critically well-received and further solidified Diokno's reputation for sensitive and nuanced storytelling.

In 2024, Diokno directed GomBurZa, a historical drama focusing on the lives and martyrdom of Filipino priests Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora. The film received widespread acclaim and several awards, highlighting the historical significance and impact of the priests' execution on the Philippine Revolution.

Diokno's films often tackle complex social and political issues, utilizing compelling narratives and realistic portrayals to engage audiences. He is also an advocate for independent cinema and actively involved in promoting Filipino films both locally and internationally.