How Umbag Began
Umbag started as a passion project with a unique origin story. Written by director and screenwriter John Ad Castillo, the film was initially conceived with one of boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s sons in mind for the lead role. However, the story took a new direction when producer Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner saw the potential for her daughter, Marie Flows, to take on a key role.
Marie, an artist by profession, had been struggling emotionally and mentally during the Covid-19 pandemic. Witnessing her daughter’s challenges, Rosemarie believed that this film could be both a creative outlet and a healing journey for Marie. This personal connection gave Umbag a deeper layer of authenticity and emotional resonance, setting the stage for a story that is both intimate and universally relatable.
Filmed in the Philippines
Adding to its authenticity, Umbag was shot on location in the Philippines, immersing viewers in the vibrant landscapes and cultural nuances that are integral to the story. From the bustling boxing gym to the serene yet dramatic settings of provincial life, the film beautifully captures the essence of the Philippines, providing a rich backdrop that enhances the narrative’s emotional depth.
International Recognition & Festival Highlights
Umbag made its world premiere at the Golden State Film Festival on February 19, 2025, at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, where it was honored with the Best Action Feature Film award. This recognition marked a powerful debut for the cast and crew and solidified the film’s place in the independent film circuit.
Building on this momentum, Umbag was officially selected for the 2025 Indie Vegas Film Festival, where it will screen on April 26. The film is also set to participate in the 127th Philippine Independence Day Parade in New York City on June 1, further showcasing Filipino storytelling on a cultural stage.
These selections reflect Umbag’s growing impact and global relevance, especially within the Filipino diaspora and independent film communities.
About the Film
Umbag is a poignant story about two estranged sisters, Daniela and Janice, who are forced to confront their shared past and deep-seated differences after years of separation. Set against the backdrop of a boxing gym, the film explores themes of family, resilience, and forgiveness.
Raised in different parts of the world, Daniela becomes a skilled boxer under the guidance of their uncle Isaac, while Janice, who grew up in the US, struggles with feelings of alienation and a yearning for connection. When tragedy strikes, their already strained relationship is pushed to the breaking point, culminating in a climactic boxing match that forces them to reevaluate what truly matters.
Why It Matters
Umbag is more than just a film—it’s a reflection of the Filipino spirit. The story delves into universal experiences of family dynamics, sibling rivalry, and the pursuit of redemption, making it deeply relatable to audiences from all walks of life. For the Filipino community, the film’s cultural and emotional depth resonates strongly, portraying the values of love, forgiveness, and resilience that are at the heart of Filipino identity.
The decision to film in the Philippines adds another layer of cultural richness to the story, offering global audiences an authentic glimpse into the country’s beauty and the vibrancy of its people. It also underscores the importance of creating narratives that are grounded in their origins, giving the film an undeniable sense of place and purpose.
A Celebration of Talent and Resilience
For Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner and her daughter Marie Flows, Umbag represents more than a film—it is a healing process, a labor of love, and a celebration of resilience. With a passionate cast and production team, Umbag brings together real-life struggles, emotional authenticity, and raw storytelling into one unforgettable cinematic journey.
About Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner
Central Coast, CA – Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner is a name synonymous with success in real estate and finance, community service, and now, film production. As the Owner and CEO of MD International Marketing Group, Inc., a full-service real estate and finance company serving California’s Central Coast, Rosemarie has spent over 20 years helping individuals and families achieve their homeownership dreams. Her contributions to the industry have earned her national and international recognition, including being acknowledged as a Pinnacle Professional Member Inner Circle of Excellence for her outstanding achievements.
Beyond her real estate expertise, Rosemarie is an award-winning community leader. In 2024, she was honored with the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award for her dedication to community service and was recognized as a TOFA (The Outstanding Filipino Awards) awardee, solidifying her influence within the Filipino-American community. She has also been featured in the Marquis Who’s Who list as a Subject of Biographical Record, a distinction that highlights her professional excellence and contributions to society.
She currently serves as President of the Aurora Inter-Organizational Alliance USA (AIOA-USA), a coalition of Filipino-Americans from the province of Aurora united in promoting cultural heritage, leadership, and community development. Through this role, she continues to foster unity, representation, and empowerment within the broader Fil-Am community.
Rosemarie’s impact extends beyond real estate and nonprofit work. She is also a host for American Dream TV, a nationally recognized and Emmy-nominated show highlighting real estate and lifestyle stories across the country. Her role on the show allows her to bring visibility to the Central Coast’s vibrant real estate market while sharing the inspiring stories of people and businesses in the region.
She was previously the owner of Angels’ Residence, a residential care facility for the elderly, where she provided compassionate care for senior citizens. From 2009 to 2017, she served as an Ambassador for the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce, actively fostering economic growth and community engagement. Her longstanding involvement with the Filipino American Association further highlights her commitment to cultural advocacy and outreach.
Rosemarie’s dynamic career path has led her into the world of entertainment, where she seamlessly blends business acumen with artistic vision. Her passion for the arts spans across international beauty pageants, music video production, and film. As a producer, she is deeply involved in projects that tell compelling stories, reflecting her dedication to showcasing diverse narratives.
Most recently, she took on the role of producer for Umbag, a feature film that has garnered international attention. Umbag was officially selected for the Golden State Film Festival and screened at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood on February 19, 2025, where it was awarded Best Action Feature Film. This milestone marks a significant achievement in her journey as a film producer, highlighting her ability to bring impactful, culturally rooted stories to the screen.
With a strong foundation in business, a heart for service, and an eye for creativity, Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner continues to make waves in multiple industries. Her future aspirations include expanding her creative projects in film and music production while further growing her real estate ventures. Whether in business, philanthropy, or the arts, her unwavering dedication and visionary leadership remain an inspiration to many.
For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Rosemarie Dumadara Koerner
+1 (805) 478-4784
https://www.facebook.com/rosemarie.dumadara
Umbag Social Media Pages:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/umbagfilm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umbagfilm/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UmbagFilm Official Trailer: https://youtu.be/7sR_ZCRQXLU
