Movie director, actor, host, recording artist, and columnist—Direk Romm Burlat wears many hats in the entertainment industry. Having directed over 20 films, both short and full-length, he has made a mark not only in the Philippines but also on the international stage. His impressive career includes more than 200 awards across different fields, with one of his films, Minsa’y Isang Alitaptap, starring Gina Pareño, Teresa Loyzaga, Ron Macapagal, and Diego Loyzaga, becoming a finalist at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
His accolades speak volumes about his impact. He was inducted into the Best Director Hall of Fame in India, has received two Best Actor awards and one Best Director award in Hollywood, and has been honored by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). His success extends to commercial directing, with four award-winning commercials, including his latest for Mr. Moo milk, featuring Miss Universe 1999 first runner-up Miriam Quiambao. Despite all this, Direk Romm’s journey started far from the glitz and glamour of filmmaking.
The early years and career shift
Before entering the entertainment industry, Direk Romm worked as a Region Sales Statistician for Coca-Cola Bottlers Philippines, Inc. He also served as editor-in-chief of its plant newsletter. Later, he became the first Filipino Cruise Director, working with international cruise lines such as Star Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises. “I was able to visit 90 countries through that job,” he shares. He also held a managerial position at Solaire Casino Resort and Hotel before finally pursuing his childhood dream.
“Since I was a kid, I dreamt of being an actor and director, but I only realized this when I was in my 50s. I told myself, it’s better late than never,” he says. Despite the late start, his passion pushed him to excel in the field. “Being a director is not easy. My sleeping time is irregular, and sometimes, shoots take several days. Being in show business, you can’t have a private life—intrigues and bashings come with it. But because I love what I do, I don’t mind all those.”
The challenges of showbiz
Direk Romm admits that one of the biggest struggles in the entertainment industry is financial instability. “Being in show business, you don’t have a permanent job. You are financially good when you have a project, but there’s always worry when there’s no follow-up.”
Rejection was also a hurdle he had to overcome. “When I did my first movie, nobody believed in me. But when I won Best Director on my first attempt, people started recognizing my talent.” Entering the international market was another challenge, with multiple rejections before he finally broke through. Despite these struggles, he remained resilient.
Outside of filmmaking, Direk Romm is deeply involved in humanitarian efforts. Every year on his birthday, he celebrates with the elderly, children with cancer, abandoned children, and autistic kids. “Every Christmas, I do gift-giving with street children. Because of this, I was featured on GMA 7,” he shares. His free time is spent reading, watching movies on Netflix, and analyzing Hollywood films for inspiration. He also enjoys special moments with his pet dog, Perk.
Dreams and future plans
Direk Romm clarifies that he is not an employee but works with producers. His ultimate dream, however, is more personal. “I want my family to unite again. There is a little animosity within the family, and I hope to spearhead the move to bring us all back together.”
For fellow Filipinos facing hardships, Direk Romm offers encouragement. “Just have faith in God. Struggles will come to pass, and you will emerge stronger. Always remember: when the going gets rough, the tough gets going. And there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.”
From working corporate jobs to directing Cannes-recognized films, Direk Romm Burlat’s journey proves that dreams can come true, regardless of when you start pursuing them. His story is an inspiration for those who dare to take risks and believe in their potential, no matter the obstacles they face.
