From Crime Scenes to the Silver Screen: The Many Lives of Roland Sanchez

Manila, Philippines – For over two decades, Roland Sanchez has been at the forefront of law enforcement as a dedicated agent of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). With unwavering commitment, he has spent his career exposing crime and corruption. But beyond his work in the field, Sanchez has also made a name for himself as an award-winning independent filmmaker, using cinema to bring hard-hitting social issues to light.

As a director, Sanchez crafts bold, thought-provoking narratives that challenge the status quo. His groundbreaking works, EJK and Broken Hallelujah, which tackled extrajudicial killings and human trafficking, respectively, were the first Asian films to be screened at the Philippine Consulate Center in New York. His extensive filmography also includes:

• Ikigai – A gripping take on agricultural smuggling.
• Kintsugi – A powerful exposé on corruption in the government.
• The Destruction of Lissy – A real-life account from the PNP Women and Children Protection division.
• Bilibid or Knot – A deep dive into the irregularities inside the National Penitentiary.
• Behind the Masskara – A historical film that uncovers the origins of Bacolod’s Maskara Festival and the sugar crisis in Negros during the Marcos era.
• Despicable Rascals – An edgy thriller about corruption in Philippine politics.
• Luna – A psychological drama based on the true story of a scammer who defrauded people of millions.
• The Life Within – A poetic travelogue shot entirely in Italy, reflecting on life, choices, death, and existential questions.
• Teniente Gimo – A horror film based on the infamous urban legend from Iloilo.

This year, Sanchez is set to produce three more films, including The Games of the Generals, a limited movie series—an explosive, politically charged drama he intends to pitch to Netflix.

"Investigating crime and creating films both reveal hidden realities that need to be confronted."

Beyond law enforcement and filmmaking, Sanchez is a passionate traveler. Having explored much of Europe, the USA, and Asia, his journeys have expanded his worldview, enriching both his storytelling and songwriting. A gifted musician, he has written the theme songs for all his films, seamlessly blending narrative with melody.

Balancing the demands of law enforcement and filmmaking is no easy feat, yet Sanchez finds that both worlds complement each other. “Investigating crime and creating films both reveal hidden realities that need to be confronted,” he explains. His ability to translate real-world injustices into compelling cinematic stories is what sets him apart.

Known for his exceptional writing, Sanchez personally pens all his screenplays, drawing from his investigative expertise. His sharp storytelling skills have also earned him recognition within the NBI, where he has crafted some of the agency’s most compelling investigative reports.

Despite his many accomplishments, Sanchez maintains a low profile. With his striking looks, he is often mistaken for a film actor or model—a perception reinforced by his occasional acting roles in TV series and his own films. His performances, marked by subtlety and depth, mirror the quiet intensity he brings to his real-life profession.

Outside of work, Sanchez is an avid runner, motorcycle enthusiast, and fitness buff. Music remains a cornerstone of his creative life—when not behind the camera or in the field, he can be found strumming his guitar and singing with sharp, tongue-in-cheek humor.

Though his career has been his primary focus, Sanchez admits he still dreams of building a family. “I used to be a player, but now I only date with the intent to marry,” he shares. “If the right woman never comes, then I trust that solitude is God’s plan for me.”

Recently, Sanchez opened a resort south of Manila—a personal retreat where he envisions spending more time in the future. However, he is also drawn to the serene beauty of Switzerland and is contemplating a possible move there.

Roland Sanchez is proof that one man can live multiple lives—law enforcer, filmmaker, writer, actor, musician, traveler, and dreamer. Whether in the field or behind the camera, his mission remains the same: to seek truth and tell stories that matter.