| Alega Gang: Public Enemy No.1 of Cebu | |
| Director: | Pepe Marcos |
| Starring: | Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. |
| Music: | Nonoy Tan |
| Cinematography: | Rey de Leon |
| Studio: | RNB Films |
| Country: | Philippines |
| Language: | Filipino |
Alega Gang: Public Enemy No.1 of Cebu is a 1988 action crime film co-edited and directed by Pepe Marcos and written by Jose N. Carreon. It stars Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. in the lead role. Set in Cebu, it tells an account of the life of Ulysses "Boboy" Alega (Revilla), and his descent into crime. Originally released on June 23, 1988, it was re-released on April 2, 1994, with Padilla receiving equal billing with Revilla.[1]
Critic Lav Diaz gave a positive review of the film, commending its clear characterization of the main character in comparison to other films involving outlaws.
In 1985, jeepney driver Ulysses "Boboy" Alega loses his vehicle just as he needed money to pay his rent and buy medications for his child.[1] After he accidentally shoots and kills a person during a fight, Boboy is then imprisoned and tortured by the police.[1] With his release from prison, Boboy eventually joins a group involved in arms smuggling, and after some time its members come to consider him as their leader.[1]
Alega Gang was released in the Philippines on June 23, 1988.[1] On April 2, 1994, the film was re-released by Moviestars Production, with Padilla receiving equal billing with Revilla.[2]
The film was box office hit in the Philippines,[3] especially in Cebu City, where according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer, there was an alleged incident of people breaking a box office window while demanding tickets.[4] [5]
Lav Diaz, writing for Manila Standard, gave a favorable review of Alega Gang, commending its clear illustration of the main character as a victim of society, unlike many other films featuring "police characters".[1] Though he commented that Ulysses' final dying shout was "corny", he concluded that the film is a good addition to the list of intense Filipino action films.[1]