Penekula began her acting career in the late 2000s, working predominantly with independent production outfits based in Davao City and Cagayan de Oro. Unlike many actors who migrate to Manila for broader exposure, she chose to remain in the regions, contributing to films that tell authentic stories of Mindanaoan and Visayan life—often in local languages like Bisaya and Hiligaynon.
– A neo-realist film about farmers displaced by a large-scale mining operation. Penekula co-produced this film in addition to acting. It was screened at the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival and received a special citation for its ensemble acting. myrna castillo penekula movies