David Licauco delivers ‘sin-sere’ laughs in ‘Samahan ng mga Makasalanan’
Samahan ng mga Makasalanan is a rare local film that manages to be funny and thoughtful without overexplaining itself. Directed by Benedict Mique and produced by GMA Pictures with former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, it moves with confidence through themes of morality, faith, and change—without ever taking itself too seriously.
The film follows Reverend Sam (David Licauco), a young deacon assigned to Sto. Kristo, a town riddled with crime and corruption. His mission is to guide the residents toward personal change, not through judgment, but through a sense of community. The result is a group called Samahan ng mga Makasalanan—a space where self-confessed sinners get the chance to turn their lives around, one small act at a time.
The plot may seem outlandish—thieves who turn into delivery riders, gossipers who become newscasters—but the sincerity behind the story keeps it grounded. The satire works because it’s rooted in reality: people make mistakes, but with patience and empathy, they can improve.
Licauco, stepping outside his usual dramatic and romantic roles, shows surprising restraint and timing in a performance that could mark a shift in how audiences view his range. His scenes with veteran actor Joel Torre anchor the film, offering quiet emotional depth that balances the comedic tone. The chemistry between the cast is notable, with standout support from Sanya Lopez, Liezel Lopez, Soliman Cruz, Jun Sabayton, and Chanty Videla.
During its premiere at SM Megamall on April 10, the film drew support from familiar faces, including National Artist Ricky Lee and GMA Pictures EVP Nessa Valdellon. Barbie Forteza, Licauco’s longtime screen partner, showed up to support him—a moment not lost on fans who have followed their work together.
Online reactions have been equally strong. Viewers have described the movie as comforting, even healing. For all its absurd turns, the film makes a point: kindness, humility, and second chances are worth betting on.
Visually, the film leans into its small-town setting without glamorizing it. The tone is casual, sometimes chaotic, but always with intention. The script by Mique and Aya Anunciacion manages to poke fun at religious hypocrisy while still respecting faith as a force for good.
The film leaves behind five ideas: change is always possible, redemption matters, faith has quiet strength, community can guide recovery, and kindness has not disappeared. These aren’t new messages, but the film delivers them in a way that feels timely.
Samahan ng mga Makasalanan opens in cinemas on April 19.