Why Does Jun Robles Lana Favor a Three-Name Credit?

Filmmaker Jun Robles Lana has recently elaborated on his preference for being credited under three names instead of the conventional two, highlighting the personal significance of his full name and its connection to his family. In a statement responding to a misreported credit in a publication about his upcoming film "Sisa," he explained that using "Robles"—his mother's maiden name—honours her role in his life and career. This choice reflects a broader conversation about identity and representation in the film industry, especially in light of his new project, which aims to elevate the experiences of marginalized women.

Last updated: 28 January 2026 (BST)

What’s happening now

Jun Robles Lana's comments come amidst anticipation for his new film "Sisa," which is set to restore veteran actress Hilda Koronel to the big screen after a 14-year hiatus. The film is steeped in historical context, focusing on themes of identity and resilience during a tumultuous period in Philippine history—the Philippine-American War. Lana's insistence on using his full name is a part of his artistic identity, which he feels is crucial in a time where personal identity is increasingly respected and understood. His film is not just a comeback for Koronel but also a platform to explore and challenge traditional gender roles through compelling storytelling.

Key takeaways

• Jun Robles Lana prefers to be credited with his full name to honour his mother.
• His upcoming film "Sisa" addresses themes of resilience and identity during the Philippine-American War.
• The film marks Hilda Koronel's return to the cinema after 14 years.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to Jun Robles Lana’s current focus and identity has evolved over the years. Here’s a brief timeline of key events:

• 2012: Jun Robles Lana consciously chooses to use his full name professionally.
• 2026, January 28: Lana responds to a miscredit on social media, reaffirming his identity and the significance of his full name.
• 2026: "Sisa" is set for release, showcasing significant themes and marking Koronel's return.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

In his latest statement, Lana has highlighted the importance of his full name, "Jun Robles Lana," as an integral part of his artistic identity. This comes as his film "Sisa" is generating buzz ahead of its release, with an emphasis on the stories of marginalized women during the historical backdrop of the Philippine-American War.

What was already established

Previously, Lana's career has been marked by a series of critically acclaimed films, including "Die Beautiful" and "About Us But Not About Us." His works often explore complex social issues and feature strong female characters, paving the way for deeper conversations around representation in cinema.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Film enthusiasts in the UK can expect to see increased representation of diverse narratives in international cinema, particularly through works like "Sisa." The themes of resilience and identity resonate not only within the context of Filipino history but also reflect broader global issues surrounding gender and representation.

Businesses and jobs

The film industry in the UK, alongside international markets, may witness a shift towards more inclusive storytelling as filmmakers like Lana challenge traditional narratives. This could lead to greater opportunities for diverse talent both in front of and behind the camera.

Policy and regulation

As more films highlight social issues and marginalised voices, there may be increased calls for support and funding for diverse storytelling within the UK film industry. This aligns with ongoing discussions about representation and inclusion in media and could influence future policy decisions.

Numbers that matter

• 14 years: Duration since Hilda Koronel last appeared in a film, marking her significant return.
• 1902: The historical setting of "Sisa," highlighting a pivotal time in Philippine history.
• 5: The number of notable films directed by Jun Robles Lana that have gained attention in film festivals, showcasing his impact on the industry.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Philippine-American War: A conflict that lasted from 1899 to 1902 between the United States and Filipino revolutionaries.
• Marginalized women: Women who are excluded from mainstream social, economic, and political life due to various factors such as race, class, or gender identity.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As "Sisa" approaches its release date, audiences can look forward to promotional events and discussions around the film’s themes. Fans of Lana and Koronel will likely engage with the film's marketing efforts, leading to increased visibility for its messages.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the film's release, anticipate reviews and critical discussions that may influence public perception of gender roles and representation in cinema. This could spark a broader interest in similar narratives within the film industry.

Signals to watch

• Box office performance of "Sisa" and its reception by critics.
• Discussions and analyses of the film in media outlets.
• Emerging trends in films focusing on marginalized voices and historical narratives.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support films that showcase diverse narratives and perspectives.
• Engage in discussions around identity and representation in media.
• Follow filmmakers like Jun Robles Lana for insights into their creative processes.

Don’t

• Dismiss the importance of representation in storytelling.
• Assume that historical narratives do not resonate with contemporary audiences.

Checklist

• Explore films directed by Jun Robles Lana to understand his style and themes.
• Research the historical context of "Sisa" for a deeper appreciation of its narrative.
• Stay informed about discussions surrounding gender roles in cinema.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While "Sisa" aims to highlight significant themes, there may be differing opinions on its portrayal of historical events and characters. Additionally, the reception of the film could vary widely, influenced by cultural contexts and individual perspectives. As the film industry evolves, the challenge remains to balance artistic expression with historical accuracy and social sensitivity.

Bottom line

Jun Robles Lana's commitment to his full name reflects a broader cultural shift towards respecting individual identity in the arts. As his film "Sisa" prepares for release, it stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to challenge norms and elevate underrepresented voices, promising to resonate with audiences both in the Philippines and globally.

FAQs

Why does Jun Robles Lana use his full name?

Jun Robles Lana prefers to use his full name to honour his mother, whose maiden name is "Robles." This choice reflects his personal connection to his identity and family.

What is the significance of the film "Sisa"?

"Sisa" is significant as it explores themes of resilience and identity during the Philippine-American War, focusing on the experiences of marginalized women.

When is "Sisa" set to be released?

The film "Sisa" is set to be released soon, with specific details about the release date expected to be announced shortly.