Team DailyPedia
Filipino historical biopic ‘EDJOP,’ which chronicles the life of student activist Edgar Jopson, has been officially selected for the Asian Future competition of the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF), marking a major international milestone for the independently produced film.
Director and co-executive producer Katski Flores, together with lead stars Elijah Canlas and Jodi Sta. Maria, will attend the festival’s opening on October 26, ahead of the film’s international premiere on October 27, 2026.
The selection brings Jopson’s story, set against a pivotal period in Philippine history, to an international audience.
Produced by Open Water Productions and The Mad Goats Inc., in association with Narra by WildSound, EDJOP recently completed its nationwide theatrical run through Warner Bros. Pictures Philippines.
Its inclusion in TIFF’s Asian Future competition signals the beginning of the film’s international festival journey, with its producers now pursuing overseas distribution opportunities.
“Our goal is to bring EDJOP to as many Filipinos as possible, globally, whether through distribution partnerships in other territories or privately organized community screenings,” Flores said.
“We’re open to exploring every avenue that will allow the film to reach its audience.”
The filmmakers hope the Tokyo screenings will help establish partnerships that can make the film accessible to Filipino communities abroad.
Developed over five years, EDJOP was produced independently without financial backing from a major film studio or television network.
The production also received support through the International Film Festival Assistance Program (IFFAP) of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), which helps Filipino films participate in international festivals.
The film follows the life of Edgar Jopson, a prominent Filipino student leader and activist whose political involvement became part of the country’s history during the Martial Law era.
Through its international screenings, the filmmakers aim to introduce his legacy to a wider audience while encouraging renewed interest in Philippine history.
Tokyo Premiere Set for October 27
EDJOP will have its international premiere on October 27, 2026, at 2:40 p.m. at TOHO Cinemas Chanter, Screen 2, as part of the festival’s Asian Future competition.
Tickets will go on sale on October 17 through the Tokyo International Film Festival’s official ticketing channels.
For ticketing details, visit the TIFF ticket information page.
With Elijah Canlas, Jodi Sta. Maria, and Katski Flores representing the production in Tokyo, ‘EDJOP’ continues its journey beyond Philippine cinemas, bringing the life and legacy of Edgar Jopson to the international film community.
