- During World War II, De Leon--who was living in Manila--was "selected" by the Japanese occupation authorities to direct several propaganda films aimed at the Filipino population to show them the "benefits" of the Japanese invasion and takeover of their country. After the war ended De Leon and several of his staff were arrested by the new Philippine government, imprisoned and charged with collaboration with the enemy--an offense punishable by death. At their trial, however, many former guerrillas testified in De Leon's behalf, and pointed out that while he was working for the Japanese making propaganda films he was at the same time involved in underground resistance work with the guerrillas. De Leon and his staff were cleared and released.
- The most-awarded director in the history of the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences: 7 awards.
- A National Artist in the Philippines.
- The only director in the Philippines to have won the FAMAS Award for Best Director three consecutive times: in 1960, 1961 and 1962.
- Father of Liberty Ilagan.
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