A LOVE child is an offspring born in the absence of marriage of parents. The couple can live together openly, with their child, who’s not illegitimate, though. But the mom needs to stick to her last name and cannot officially use the name of her partner.

The romantic-comedy, ‘Love Child,’ is the title of the latest film of Regal Entertainment jointly produced with Southern Lantern Studios. It is an entry to this year’s Cinemalaya Film Festival, now ongoing until August 11.

At the helm of ‘Love Child’ is Jonathan Jurilla, who makes his directorial debut in the film based on his personal experience.

“My son was diagnosed with autism when he was two years old,” Jonathan disclosed. “He is now 16. We lived with that.”

Set in the town of Silay in Negros Occidental, ‘Love Child’ follows the story of a young couple, Ayla and Paolo, who fell in love when they were still in college. The protagonists are portrayed by Jane Oineza and RK Bagatsing, who are paired anew on the big screen.

The reel and real-life couple first teamed up in 2020 in director Joy Aquino’s romance-drama, ‘Us Again.’

They cannot be thankful enough that they are paired again this time in ‘Love Child,’ that navigates the challenge of raising an autistic son, Kali (John Tyron Ramos) in an increasingly unforgiving world that will test their love and resilience.

The characters and events have been changed for a more dramatic and artistic retelling of the narrative, with different circumstances, struggles and daily experiences.

“To my surprise, when the first trailer was released, I discovered that the experiences resonated with many other parents who have a child with autism, highlighting the common and relatable nature of our shared journey,” said director Jonathan.

Relating to his son, Oyen, as well as his family struggles, direk Jonathan said that experts usually advise parents to devote more time to their child, be more patient and loving.

“We love our son, Oyen and we are committed to supporting him as he grows,” said direk Jonathan. “But we also have other responsibilities and needs. Yen has a sister who also needs our love and attention.

“As working parents, we cannot devote out time to raising our son alone. We need to provide for the family which includes earning money for essentials like food and shelter. Additionally, we have personal goals and aspirations.”

Direk Jonathan further recalled how their lives, careers and daily routines have changed and impacted significantly after his son was diagnosed with autism.

The filmmaker dedicates “Love Child” to Oyen and to all the families who share the same challenges and experience.

“May this film serve as our voice, shedding light on our journey, struggles and offering a deeper understanding of life with autism,” director Jonathan added.

Meanwhile, Jane and RK dedicate the film to Regal matriarch Lily Monteverde, whose contribution to the showbiz world, TV and film could not be equaled.

In more than five decades, Mother Lily, as she was fondly called gave the big break to top caliber actors, directors and scriptwriters.

The first film that Regal produced was “Kayod sa Araw, Kayod sa Gabi,” directed by Luciano “Chaning” Carlos (1976). The comedy flick starred Elizabeth Oropesa, Gina Pareño and Orestes Ojeda.

The memorable films of Regal through the years that romped away with awards were Manila By Night, Relasyon and Broken Marriage of director Ishmael Bernal, Sister Stella L of Mike de Leon and Scorpio Nights of Peque Gallaga.

Mother Lily was also behind the Shake, Rattle and Roll and Mano Po franchises that became box office hits.

Her Regal babies included Alma Moreno, Dina Bonnevie, Snooky Serna, Gabby Concepcion, William and Albert Martinez.

Maricel Soriano was only 16 when she started with Regal, where she did more than a hundred films. She is now 59, but she still stays with Regal.

“Hindi ako nawawala sa Regal,” Maricel said. “Whenever Mother or Roselle needs me, nandyan ako. Gano’n ako katagal sa Regal. I’m very blessed. I will never say no to Mother.

“Everytime I see her, I always say to her, ‘I love you very much. Everytime you need me, I’m just here. I will never say no to you.”