About
Gregory Manalo is a Filipino-American filmmaker, strategic storyteller, and cultural practitioner based in the San Francisco Bay Area.
His work explores the intersection of culture, movement, and purpose-driven work, documenting the people and communities shaping a more thoughtful and connected world.
With a background in documentary storytelling and video journalism, Gregory has spent more than a decade producing films, interviews, and editorial content that help audiences understand the human stories behind ideas, organizations, and cultural traditions.
Early Influences
Gregory was born and raised in Oakland, California, where his early interests in skateboarding, martial arts, and film shaped the way he sees the world.
Growing up in the Bay Area’s diverse cultural landscape introduced him to communities built around discipline, creativity, and shared identity. These environments would later become central themes in his storytelling.
Inspired by filmmakers and performers like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, Gregory became fascinated with the idea that movement, culture, and storytelling could intersect to create powerful narratives about identity and community.
Storytelling & Media
Gregory studied motion pictures and television at the Academy of Art University, where he focused on cinematography, editing, and documentary storytelling.
He later spent several years working in technology journalism, producing interviews and editorial video content with founders, executives, and innovators at companies including TechCrunch, where he worked as a video producer and storyteller covering emerging technology and entrepreneurship.
This experience helped shape his approach to storytelling — combining journalistic curiosity, cinematic craft, and strategic communication.
Current Work
Today, Gregory works as a filmmaker and creative strategist through Manalo Pictures, a boutique video production studio focused on mission-driven brands and organizations.
His projects often explore the human side of culture, craft, and entrepreneurship, helping audiences connect with the values and stories behind meaningful work.
In addition to commercial storytelling, Gregory continues to document and participate in the cultural communities that influence his work.
Cultural Practice
Gregory practices Filipino martial arts, dance, and other cultural traditions that emphasize discipline, creativity, and connection.
He is the founder of The Rooted School, a platform dedicated to preserving and teaching Filipino martial arts through structured training and cultural education.
He also supports and documents cultural communities through projects such as Timba SF, which celebrates Cuban salsa dance culture and the vibrant social dance ecosystem of San Francisco.
Philosophy
Gregory believes storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for building understanding and trust.
His work focuses on capturing the moments where movement, culture, and purpose intersect — whether documenting a founder’s vision, a community gathering, or the traditions that shape how people live and connect with one another.
Through film, he aims to create stories that are thoughtful, visually engaging, and grounded in authenticity.
Connect
If you're interested in collaborating, working together, or simply connecting, feel free to reach out.