BINI looks forward to 2025 world tour, eyes more international collabs

 

BINI looks forward to 2025 world tour, eyes more international collabs

BINI collaborates with Indonesian pop star Agnez Mo (center) for the 'BINIMo remix' of Cherry On Top.

Photo from BINI's Instagram

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

December 21, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — What a year 2024 has been for BINI. But it looks like 2025 is shaping up to be an even bigger year for the “Nation's Girl Group” with their first-ever world tour.

In an exclusive interview with The STAR on Thursday, BINI members Jhoanna, Maloi, Stacey, Mikha, Gwen, Sheena, Aiah and Colet shared what they were most grateful for this year.

Besides hit songs, they mounted major solo concerts — first with “BINIverse” in July at the New Frontier Theater, with several stops in cities outside Metro Manila, and then the “Grand BINIverse” three-day concert series at the Big Dome in November.

The girls also had their first international collaboration with Indonesian pop superstar Agnez Mo for a remix version of Cherry on Top. The group reportedly met her at the Enterprise Studios in L.A. and later at the Billboard Korea's K Power 100 launch in Seoul earlier this year.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to showcase our song to everyone, especially (to people) in Indonesia. We’re grateful for Agnez Mo’s beautiful voice and for accepting this project,” began Stacey.

“Thank you also to the brands we’ve worked with,” Jhoanna added.

“For this year, there have been so many blessings and achievements that we've gotten. We are grateful because it shows that our efforts have been seen and acknowledged,” Aiah further said.

“And not just the (individual) efforts but also the teamwork. Everyone has put in a lot of work, especially when we did the concerts. Having done two concerts in a year, that was hard to pull through, but we managed. Thank you to everyone who has shown us so much love. Thank you, Lord!”

They also recognized their fans, also known as Blooms, as part of the driving force behind whatever they accomplished this year.

In an exclusive interview with The STAR, BINI members Jhoanna, Maloi, Stacey, Mikha, Gwen, Sheena, Aiah and Colet look back on 2024 and share what they are most grateful for this year.

“Thank you to our Blooms, who are always there for us, voting endlessly for us. They always have our backs,” said Maloi. “This is the time that we give back through our music.”

On what fans can expect from BINI in 2025, Gwen revealed, “More shows and song releases! We’re preparing to release our new song, Blink Twice. Of course, we will also have our grand BINIverse repeat concert at the Philippine Arena in February and a world tour, yes!”

As mentioned, one of the highlights of this year was their first international collaboration. The girls recalled their first impressions of Agnez Mo. “The word is ‘intimidated,’” said Aiah. “If you just look at her before she speaks, you’ll feel intimidated. But when she starts sharing her experiences and everything she knows about the world of music, we feel warm and comfortable just being with her.

“It feels like we have a big sister. That’s very nice because, especially in this industry, it's hard to find someone you can be comfortable talking to and expressing yourself with. This collaboration is a great step, and hopefully, it doesn’t end there. We hope to have more collaborations in the future. If we get to travel, hopefully, we visit Indonesia for work or leisure.”

For Mikha, recording with Agnez “taught us how to mesh three languages — Bahasa, Tagalog and English — altogether. I think it really worked well. Agnez Mo’s verse really amazed us; it brought a different flavor to the song.”

“We hope this collaboration opens more opportunities for BINI, Agnez Mo, other Filipino and Indonesian artists. Imagine the exchange of artistry among Asian (talents),” Jhoanna added.

As for Agnez, she found it easy to build a rapport with the girls due to quite similar backgrounds.

“When I first heard the record — even before Cherry on Top was out — we kind of dabbled into the possibility of us working together. I also did my research on BINI. I love what they stand for — girl power. It’s very aligned with my career and has always been my message throughout my life.

“Honestly, they reminded me of who I was when I was 17, 18, 19 years old. It brought back so many memories, and I definitely wanted to show up for the girls.

“I think the message of doing this is about crossing boundaries and countries, embracing multiculturalism, and celebrating unity in diversity. That has always been a huge part of my campaign as an artist. This collaboration solidifies that. Representing Asia and music on the global stage is something that should be celebrated.”

When asked about the possible impact of this project on the music scene in the region, Agnez shared that the beauty of the collaboration was that she came into it with zero expectations. She said it wasn’t about trying a strategy to break into another music market or vice versa.

“It’s really a genuine connection between strong girls and women, and also about representing Asia on the global stage,” she reiterated.

Given her success and staying power in the industry, Agnez sees qualities in BINI that she believes will help them last long in the entertainment business.

“It’s their curiosity. Every time we met, they would ask questions, they were willing to listen, and they were eager to learn. We connected not just as artists but also on a human level — like a big sister to younger sisters,” she said.

“The reason I’ve stayed at the top of my career for literally 30 years is because I’ve always been curious about what else I could learn — from experiences, life, other artists and established creators.

“On top of that, BINI is surrounded by a strong team that really cares about them. I think that’s also very important in this industry.”

Why ‘Uninvited’ is a film you can‘t ignore, according to producer

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

MANILA, Philippines — For the producer of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2024 entry “Uninvited,” the drama thriller topbilled by Vilma Santos, Aga Muhlach and Nadine Lustre, is a risky but necessary project for taking on difficult themes rarely addressed in mainstream Philippine cinema.

From the trailer, viewers are introduced to the characters of Vilma (as Lilia/Eva), Aga (Guilly) and Nadine who are present at a lavish celebration at an opulent mansion, which spirals into a night of “intrigues, buried secrets and shocking revelations.”

The star-studded cast also includes Tirso Cruz III, Mylene Dizon, Elijah Canlas, Gabby Padilla, RK Bagatsing, Lotlot de Leon, Ketchup Eusebio, Cholo Barretto, Gio Alvarez and Ron Angeles.

The production and creatives are led by Bryan Diamante of Mentorque (same group behind the 2023 MMFF entry “Mallari”) as executive producer and Antoinette Jadaone of Project 8 Projects as producer. Reign de Guzman, Omar Sortijas and Catsi Catalan are on board as supervising producers, while Irene Villamor is the creative producer. Dan Villegas directs from the screenplay of Dodo Dayao.

Aga as Guilly.

“It’s overwhelming, but the pressure is on,” Diamante said during an interview at the recent grand party-themed launch of the film. “We’re just starting, and I’m telling you the nine other (MMFF) entries are really good, too, so we have to up our game. That’s why we’re also relentless with ‘Uninvited,’ because a lot of Filipino audiences have to watch this film.”

The lead cast with director Dan Villegas and producer Bryan Diamante (rightmost) of Mentorque. — Photo courtesy of Mentorque Productions

This means, they are eyeing both domestic and overseas screenings for the film when the MMFF opens on Christmas Day, Dec. 25.

“I’m hoping that we could have simultaneous screenings worldwide on Dec. 25. We’re not only targeting the Philippine audiences but also the international audiences,” he said.

They are working anew with Warner Bros. as their film distributor.

Vilma Santos and Aga Muhlach share a light moment at the grand launch of their MMFF 2024 entry 'Uninvited.' The thriller is produced by Mentorque Productions with Project 8 Projects.

Despite targeting a wider cinema release for “Uninvited,” he acknowledged that one of the challenges would be the film’s rating. He said they’re hoping for an R-13 rating.

“We can’t say yet (about the target number of cinemas) because it’s going to be a challenge for me when it comes to the rating. I hope that we’re open also to this kind of film,” Diamante said, adding, “Actually, ang lalim ng pelikulang ito. Nakita niyo yung grandness (from the trailer), but it has a lot of things to say.”

As the trailer suggests, one of the sensitive topics it will explore is abuse of women.

Nadine Lustre as Nicole.

“Feeling ko ha, part of our culture that cannot advance is because we never tackle yung mga bagay na (tinatago and sensitive)... I was really happy, although it’s really a risk for all of us. Gusto ko matapang yung pelikula ito (We want this film to be brave),” he said.

The film originated from a concept by the Star for all Seasons herself, Vilma, which eventually grew into a full-fledged cinematic project. She proposed the idea for a narrative that would unfold within 24 hours.

Diamante said, “This movie, we never thought magkatotoo. Kami ni Ate Vi nung nag-uusap kami, she just wants to create a film, and ako naman gusto ko gumawa ng pelikula (wherein) ibibigay namin lahat. And then we were able to submit (to MMFF), sabi ko, try natin kasi andyan na yan eh. Let’s try to submit it. Sabi niya (Vilma), ayoko nga ng pressure, ‘di ba. Eh nung sinubmit namin, natanggap. So that’s what happened.”

In asking Vilma, who was vocal about not wanting to be pressured to participate in this year’s MMFF, to do “Uninvited,” Diamante said it was “Mallari” that gave him the confidence to do so.

“Pitch ng pitch ako sa kanya because of course, she’s done 200 films. When you present (things to her), even if she’s not saying it, (she would hint that) nagawa ko na yan. Kaya sabi ko talaga sa kanya, ‘Ma’am, just tell us what you want.’”

Meanwhile, the producer refrained from disclosing the production budget, but he hinted at the scale of the project. “Definitely, cast pa lang andun na tayo. I’m really fortunate that every organization, or company, or every person that we tapped to do this film, they all said yes. We’re very fortunate on that,” he said.

“Kung expensive, I think the Filipino audience deserves this type of caliber ng ganitong pelikula.”

Aga and Nadine were deliberate and first choices despite the risks the story posed. “It’s very sensitive, it can actually make or break their careers,” Diamante said. “Pero nung nagsama-sama sila, I was there at the shoot. Ibang klase.”

He shared an anecdote about Aga’s dedication to his role as the main antagonist in the film. “Sa set nga, si Sir Aga, nakikita ko nagsasalita mag-isa, tapos tumitingin sa akin, tumatawa, ‘Ano, siraulo tingin mo sa akin ano? Ganito ako ka-invested dito.’

“That’s the journey of the character. We never held back because if you hold back, the reality of what we wanted to show… I know that there are compromises, but we don’t compromise that. We really have to have that journey of the character,” he added.

On the technical side, Diamante revealed how they went all-out to ensure the film’s quality. “We made sure mabibigay namin lahat. Mapapansin mo there’s a difference in the look… It’s because we invested in the technical (aspects),” he explained.

“Actually, last year with ‘Mallari,’ Alexa 35 camera was first used in the country, so we’re using Alexa 35 now. We’re also using customized lens. Tumataginting din yung lente palang, pwede na pagawa ng pelikula (the cost itself can already finance an entire film). But that’s how invested we are.”

He believes that this level of investment is crucial in feeding the passion of Filipino creatives and talents.

Nathalie Hart inspired by Demi Moore’s role in ‘The Substance’

 

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

October 9, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Viva Artists Agency’s newest talent, Nathalie Hart, dreams of doing mother roles, but she’s still game for “daring” characters like that of Demi Moore in the critically acclaimed body-horror “The Substance.”

“I don’t know if you’ve seen this movie starring Demi Moore, this is ‘The Substance,’ my God! I was surprised, she’s 60, and she was naked in that film. If the story needs it (a nude scene), I will do it,” said Nathalie of the Hollywood star’s performance in the film that’s been widely praised in the foreign press like AP for its “dose of biting social commentary on ageism and sexism in Hollywood, with a spoonful of sugar- and sparkle-doused body horror.” “The Substance” is still screening in Philippine cinemas under local film distributor CreaZion.

“I’m really OK with that. It’s really about the script. Because someone came to me and they were like giving me this script, nakakaloka, what’s the point? When you become an actress, it’s not about showing skin, it’s really about why do I have to do that? Again, if the story is great, why not?” she further said during her recent contract signing with VAA.

While she’s not afraid to take on “sexy” projects, she’s also “open to everything” in her new chapter with Viva’s talent management arm.

The actress wants to do mother roles, but she's still game for 'daring' characters like that of Demi Moore in the critically acclaimed body-horror 'The Substance.'

Why the 32-year-old is willing to do so is because she’s also a proud mom herself.

“I actually want to have mom roles already. That’s really where I want to head now, but the thing is, they’re not giving that to me yet. I guess it’s because of the way I dress up — I don’t look very mommy,” Nathalie quipped.

“Ano ba yan, gustong gusto ko yun kasi mas seryoso na but I’m still very lucky that I’m being paired with different people. I guess hopefully, later on, I get to do ‘mature’ roles already.”

Mom roles will have to wait, for now, as she’s putting her full trust on what Viva deems is best as she restarts her career after a year-long hiatus.

“I’m grateful to Viva that they’re interested in me, that they like me, and I said, let’s do it. Of course, I’m not getting any younger, I’m in my 30s, might as well grab anything I can, and also the roles that I have now, they’re not very sexy anymore. But (my upcoming film) ‘Isla Babuyan,’ that’s very sexy. I think that’s the last sexy film I’ve done.”

Ivana Alawi: Dating but not in a relationship

 

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

August 22, 2024 | 12:00am

Ivana Alawi has transformed into a modern-day Barbie for the latest campaign of a luxury jewelry brand.

LVNA by Drake Dustin, the brand behind the campaign, received an offer from Mattel five years ago to come up with a Barbie-inspired collection. However, they couldn’t afford to secure the license until last year.

“Five years namin pinag-ipunan,” revealed LVNA (pronounced as Luna) founder Drake Dustin Ibay, adding that this international partnership is good for three years and that they are starting with a trunk collection.

Naturally, the face of the campaign is the company’s first celebrity endorser Ivana.

The actress and content creator is the face of the Barbie-inspired trunk collection of fine jewelry brand LVNA by Drake Dustin.

Like many young girls, the actress and content creator said she’s also a fan of the iconic doll. “It’s an honor and I have loved Barbie since I was a kid. Even the movie, I watched it. I really look up to Barbie,” she shared during a recent presscon.

“When I was growing up, (I felt like) kailangan minsan perfect. But yung napanood ko sa ‘Barbie’ (the movie)... the truth is you don’t have to be perfect because you have to be you. When I watched that movie, I said to myself, ‘What a beautiful storyline.’”

For Drake, nevertheless, Ivana made the perfect endorser for their campaign because “she’s our lucky charm.”

Ivana with the brand's young management team, led by LVNA CEO Drake Dustin Ibay and president Dannielle Louise Ibay (third and fifth from left, respectively).

“Ivana, (she) made LVNA,” Drake told The STAR, explaining: “She started everything. If it wasn’t for the endorsement she did over the pandemic, we would have perished.

“During the pandemic, all of us were uncertain of what’s gonna happen. What gave us the edge, more than the rising value of diamonds and gold, was Ivana’s endorsement of LVNA. That gave us awareness in the Philippine market online…. Because of that, we were able to open a lot of stores.”

He also recalled how Ivana made a trend out of “self-love” rings after she purchased the reportedly P12 million-worth diamond “engagement” ring that she wore for the endorsement photo shoot.

Looking back on that huge purchase, Ivana told The STAR, “Maybe because when I was younger, inaantay ko yung engagement ko. I told myself, 18 years old papakasal na ako, eh wala. I was 25 or 26 na ata nun. Alam mo, ayoko na mag-antay and gusto ko kasi yung malaking ring. Pangarap ko yun since I was collecting smaller rings when I was younger.

“When I wore that in our endorsement shoot, I said it’s so beautiful, kahit wala na akong TF (talent fee), parang this is my dream eh, yung ring na yun. I texted Drake, ‘Gusto ko siya, kasi ang ganda talaga.’

“When you see it and when you fall in love with a piece of jewelry, you can never sleep. Sabi ko, ‘Gusto ko, Drake.’ Sabi niya, ‘Ha? Sure ka?’ Na-in love ako eh. It’s now in my collection and it’s the most special.”

“Start basic. Like, what you will wear every day. The first purchase I made was a ring… (Choose) not naman in carat, especially if hindi pa kaya, but invest in a good stone,” she advised those who are starting to invest in fine jewelry.

Meanwhile, a real-life engagement ring would have to wait as Ivana gamely answered this paper’s question if she found her “real-life” Ken, the male counterpart doll of Barbie.

“Secret,” she responded quickly. “Hindi pa. ‘Di ako sure. I’m dating other people but (hindi ako) I’m not in a relationship.”

Ivana acknowledged that some men might feel intimidated by her independence and ability to buy things for herself. But she believes that relationships shouldn’t be based on material gifts.

“Ako kasi, I believe sa mga relasyon, hindi ka papasok para bilhan mo ako ng ganito or ng ganyan,” she said.

“I can buy myself the diamonds that I want. I can buy myself whatever I want, and that’s why I work hard and that’s why I’m inspired to keep working. Hindi naman ako papasok sa isang relasyon na dun ako aasa. Hindi dapat ganoon,” she further said.

Her type of guy has not changed since she last talked with this paper about the qualities she wants in a future lifetime partner.

She still prefers meaningful conversations and intelligence over attributes like physical appearance.

“Kung walang mapag-uusapan at saka wala naman kwenta, kunwari kung looks lang, ayoko talaga. Dapat talaga may utak,” she said.

She said that she’s been meeting people who are “okay,” meaning they’ve met her standards, and that she’s not being overly selective. Ultimately, she said, she’ll go with whoever her heart chooses.

“Meron naman akong nakikilalang okay and hindi naman nagtataas yung standards ko or whatever. Basta ako, kung kanino titibok yung puso ko, yun na lang.”

For potential suitors, Ivana had this to say: “Don’t be afraid to make the first move. ‘Wag kayo matakot sa babae na feeling mo successful or whatever. You’re enough.”

“Mag-message ka ngayon (Message me now),” she laughingly added.

Angeli Khang and Robb Guinto talk about their ‘firsts’

 

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

August 7, 2024 | 12:00am

Viva Entertainment's OTT platform Vivamax is banking on Angeli Khang (left) and Robb Guinto for its first theatrical release, the girls' love-themed story 'Unang Tikim,' which is opening in cinemas today. 

MANILA, Philippines — Vivamax stars Angeli Khang and Robb Guinto are, for the first time, moving from streaming to the big screen in “Unang Tikim.” Viva Entertainment’s three-year old OTT platform is banking on Angeli and Robb for its first theatrical release, a girls love-themed story.

“Pressure, fear over judgement again, especially that this is the big screen, mainstream naman, then we’re the first,” expressed Angeli when asked how it felt to topbill Vivamax’s foray into cinemas.

Robb added that besides the pressure, they’re feeling grateful for being entrusted with the project.

“Pressure in a way na wow thank you for trusting us, mas mata-trust pa namin yung sarili namin para mabigay namin yung bestest namin,” added Angeli.

The first time Angeli and Robb acted together was in Brillante Mendoza’s Vivamax film “Virgin Forest.” They also tackled their first mainstream project together, via GMA Public Affairs’ recently concluded action drama series “Black Rider.”

They became close in real life, which in turn, posed some challenges for them as they tackled the intense scenes in their first big-screen outing together.

For example, the first scene they shot was them having a “tampuhan” or fight. Robb said, “Ang hirap sa amin nung first scene because we never experienced having a ‘tampuhan.’ We’ve promised each other to always be open to each other and never hold back any sama ng loob. So we ended up laughing while filming.”

Angeli also recalled, “But thankfully, natawid namin yung scene.”

There was also awkwardness in filming the love scenes.

“May awkwardness pa rin,” said Robb. “Nagtatawanan kami kasi with us girls normal sa atin yung magki-kiss sa cheek, yung smack lang…”

Angeli added, “But it’s a different story, yung fini-feel mo tapos dahan-dahan, then you have to stare at each other (laughs).”

Robb continued, “In our love scenes, kapag nagkaka-eye to eye kami, we’d burst out laughing, we can’t help it!”

To get past the tendency to laugh, Angeli said, “That’s why we wouldn’t look each other in the eye, body to body lang. There are scenes, I think that body lang tinitingnan namin sa isa’t isa.”

Robb further shared that because of their laughing fits and awkwardness, “Ang daming takes nung first love scene, like four or five takes. Sorry direk Roman!”

Direk Roman Perez Jr. incidentally is also their first director of their first films, individually, on Vivamax — Robb’s “Siklo” and Angeli’s “Taya.”

Now that we’re on the subject of first times, The STAR also asked Robb and Angeli some of their firsts in an exclusive inerview.

First audition:

Angeli: “My first audition was for a cosplay event. Because I watched anime, I saw an Otaku gathering where people could cosplay. I auditioned for that, and after that, it led me to modeling and now, I’ve also become an artista.

Robb: “For me, it was probably when I joined a famous magazine… Playboy magazine, so that was my first audition. That’s where my career started, and from there, I got into modeling and eventually joined Viva.”

First acting role:

Robb: “It was for my first movie here (Vivamax), ‘Siklo’ directed by direk Roman Perez Jr., same (director for) ‘Unang Tikim.’ That was my very first acting experience. I think, I had a one-month workshop then sinabak agad ako sa movie so it was nerve-wracking because I didn’t know what to do at first and I was afraid of making mistakes since it’s really scary to mess up. Well, it’s okay, but of course, as a first-timer and acting with veterans like Ms. Alma Moreno and Sir Joko Diaz, there was definitely pressure. But at least, direk Roman was there to guide me.”

Angeli: “First acting role was also for ‘Taya,’ also my first movie with direk Roman. Before that, I had acting workshops for two months. I also did a workshop for beginners where I learned things like ‘look at yourself in the mirror…’ Then eventually, I learned there are different methods pala. I had an acting coach who said it should come from the heart. Kasi lagi ko siya tinatanong, okay ba acting ko, sabi niya, okay, basta sa puso m

First big purchase:

Angeli: “Condo but down payment. Until now, I’m still paying with the help of my projects. Also my first car. I also started a food business.”

Robb: “I got myself a house. Ganun din, hulugan but at least, you can really say it’s yours. Actually, construction is still ongoing. I also bought a car. And I was able to save for enough for a small business (vaping business).”

First celebrity crush:

Angeli: “Pag napanood mo ‘to, friends po tayo. But before, I looked up to this person (in terms of talent), his hard work in acting, and when I used used to work with him, parang wow, I thought, I also want to be like this person someday. So naging crush ko siya, si Paolo Gumabao. He’s one of the reasons why I got deep into acting because ang galing nila ni Kuya Timmy (Sid Lucero).”

Robb: “Local wala. Kasi mga gusto ko K-pop. One (celebrity crush) is Captain America Chris Evans, and among the Korean (stars), Hyun Bin.”

First time a co-star flirted with you:

Both: Wala! (Laughter)

First time to be starstruck:

Angeli: “With Susan Africa, just her presence and her acting will draw you in. Inaantay ka niya, so that you can also bring out your side… nagbubuhatan kayo sa scene. No words needed, you can see right away how great she is as an actress.”

Robb: “For me, Alma Moreno. She’s the first veteran actress that I got to work with through ‘Siklo.’ In one scene, I asked her for advice on the best expression or approach to use. She taught me. I thought she was strict at first, but she turned out to be really kind.”

First major challenge in showbiz:

Robb: “There are people who will always put you down. No matter how hard you try for yourself, there will always be people who say, ‘You don’t really belong there, you can’t act, they were just forced to put you in that role.’ That’s the most challenging part for me. That’s the most challenging part for me.

“But wala sa utak ko na para gumanti. Ang ginagawa ko, mas pinapatunayan ko na lang sa kanila na mali yung perception nila. For me, actions speak louder than words.”

Angeli: “I could not let go of my emotions (character) dahil puro drama yung scenes ko and every movie ko puro drama, laging sinasaktan tapos maybe it opened my past trauma na hindi sinasadya kaya nasasama ko siya sa every day life ko (to the point that) ‘di ako marunong makipag-usap, sa friends ko, family.

“I’m thankful that Boss Vic (del Rosario) gave me six months of rest. After that, it was like a restart, back to zero again, nakikipag kilala ulit sa (mga tao) and ready to shoot again.

“During that break, (I spent my time at) church, with my family, went outing with friends, enjoyed food trips, comfort food, and self-care. Because I got depressed. I also had alopecia. And I tried therapy. What I learned from that is, don’t think twice about getting help like therapy or from a psychiatrist. Yun ang pinag-aralan nila so they would know the solution.”

‘Pulang Araw’ makes its stars proud to be Filipino

 

The historical drama ‘Pulang Araw,’ marking the first collaboration between Netflix and GMA Network, stars (from left) Barbie Forteza as Adelina, Sanya Lopez as Teresita, David Licauco as Hiroshi, and Alden Richards as Eduardo. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. The show is now streaming on Netflix and will start airing on GMA primetime tomorrow.

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

July 28, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Barbie Forteza, Sanya Lopez, David Licauco, and Alden Richards headline what has been touted as the most important Filipino story for 2024, “Pulang Araw.”

This historical drama, marking the first collaboration between Netflix and GMA Network, tells the stories of Adelina (Barbie), Teresita (Sanya), Hiroshi (David), and Eduardo (Alden) against the backdrop of the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. The show premiered on Netflix this weekend and will start airing on GMA primetime tomorrow.

The pilot episode introduces the half-sibling characters played by Barbie and Alden, whose unbreakable bond was forged after being orphaned at a young age. This bond is bound to endure even when they are torn apart as adults during wartime. Barbie grows up to be a vaudeville entertainer, while Alden becomes a freedom fighter.

Their lives become intertwined with Sanya, Barbie’s half-sibling on their father’s side who ends up as a comfort woman, and David, a childhood friend who becomes part of the Japanese forces. How will their lives and relationships play out in a country ravaged by war?

“This is based on many, many true stories,” director Dominic Zapata told The STAR during an interview about how the show was inspired by Filipinos who sacrificed, perished, and survived during World War II.

While “Pulang Araw” is set during the Japanese invasion and doesn’t shy away from depicting atrocities, he also stressed that “there’s no hatred in this show.”

Direk Dom continued, “More than anything, what we’re really trying to do is a project that can say a lot what a Filipino is and what it really means. Ano yung puso? We say that a lot in Gilas games, ‘Puso, puso!’ We usually refer it to the Filipino, yung puso natin bilang matapang, lumalaban, dugong mandirigma tayo. But hindi lang yun ang Filipino.

“The Filipino is about how we love, how we love each other, our parents… and love is also about forgiveness. (I believe) that’s how we are so different from other cultures, we can forgive.”

As the show brings together some of the most bankable Kapuso stars, the director also offered a glimpse into how his main cast worked on their characters.

On David: “The last time I directed David was in ‘Mulawin Vs. Ravena.’ At the beginning, I’ll be honest, he struggled a bit. But the David I worked with now is very different. He is so passionate that every day after taping, he asks for an assessment because he just wants to know how to make himself better.”

On Alden: “He had a hard time at first because he has a kind face. So we told him, ‘You need to look weathered here, Bro, because you’ve gone through a lot. This is a period project but not like what you did before. Here, you’ve been exposed to the sun and you look strained because you’ve faced hardships.’ It took us a while to figure it out, but damn! When he embraced it, when he really understood it, it was great to see because I saw a completely different (Alden).”

On Sanya: “What a joy to work with, so unassuming. You won’t feel any burden when working with her. When game on, (she’s) game on!”

On Barbie: “I’ve always said this, she’s the Best Actress of her generation. Barbie is spot-on. She’s the real deal. I also like that her process in creating the Adelina character is very similar to mine. That’s why when we talk, she knows (where to adjust). I can also adjust her (portrayal)… She can play around it.”

In a separate one-on-one with The STAR, the lead stars shared more insights into their characters, who their personal heroes are, and why they’re proud to be part of a show such as “Pulang Araw.”

During the grand launch of 'Pulang Araw,' the lead stars share why the series is a must-watch. 'It’s one of the things I treasure most in this series: looking back on the people who contributed to that freedom. While doing it (the show), it makes me more proud to be a Filipino,' Alden says.

On what they love about their roles:

Barbie: “Maganda siya (laughs). Hindi. What I enjoy most about playing Adelina is her being playful even in difficult scenes. Especially when she comforts her siblings, Eduardo and Teresita. She’d rather lift them up and set aside her personal struggles. Mas inuuna niyang matulungan yung mga mahal niya sa buhay (She prioritizes helping her loved ones). That’s what I really appreciate about Adelina. At saka maganda nga din siya (laughs). ‘Di ba, David?”

David: “Yes, napaka-ganda! Siguro, what I like about my character is the challenge because napakahirap nga nung role na Hiroshi. (Studying the Japanese language) is also the most difficult part of it. But the great thing about him is that he has a clear intention, right? So, I immediately know what his conflict is, and from there, I can direct my acting.”

Alden: “Napaka-seryoso naman kasi nung role ko naman dito as Eduardo. Parang walang puwang sa kanya na magbiro dahil sa mga pinagdaanan niya sa buhay. I’m not like that. Usually off cam, I’m playful. You know, just to to shrug off the heaviness of the scenes that we do.

“That’s one of the challenging parts in doing the character. Usually, yung characters ko get to crack jokes but during takes, with this one, hindi pwede talaga, ako yung binibigyan ng joke, tapos hindi ko alam kung paano mag-re-react. But at the same time, I’m enjoying it because ang sarap din gumawa ng isang character that’s your total opposite in real life.”

Sanya: “Speaking of opposite, hindi rin ako si Teresita. Iba siya kay Sanya. She’s so selfless to the point that she’s able to sacrifice herself for the people she loves and who are important to her. So, nandun yung sakripisyo niya sa kaibigan niya, pamilya niya, mahal niya sa buhay, sa kapatid niya, sa mga kababaihan. So the character is very challenging. It’s really not easy. It’s one of the heaviest roles I’ve ever done. That’s why I said at first that I couldn’t do it. Pero nung napanood ko na siya ngayon at naramdaman rin ng tao yung ‘Pulang Araw,’ kung gaano kaganda ito, mas na-appreciate ko na uy, kaya mo yan, ‘wag ka susuko. So, I love my job!”

On why “Pulang Araw” is important to watch:

Alden: “This is a legacy for them, for people who lived through World War II. And parang kailangan pong mapanood ‘to ng kabataan ngayon because this will serve as a reminder of where we came from and how we obtained the things we enjoy and that bring us joy today. That’s why po siguro it’s the most important project or series of GMA right now dahil yun po ang mensaheng gusto naming maiparating sa mga nanonood.”

Brbie: “Aside, of course, from the beautiful story, it’s the quality of our work, right? Gawang Pinoy, gawang GMA and it’s the very first partnership of Netflix and GMA. Ang laki ng impact nitong show na ito. Talagang pak na pak!”

David: “And the cast, grabe. You have Barbie, Alden, Sanya, and Dennis (Trillo), and many more.”

Sanya: “It’s great to be part of a project like this, which I would say to future generations, they won’t get tired of watching. It’s something we can watch even when we’re old and have our own families. This may be our way to give respect, value, and appreciate the freedom we enjoy today. If it weren’t for their sacrifices, what would our lives be like now? How would our lives be today? That’s why we salute you. And it feels great to be Filipino.”

On their personal heroes in life:

Sanya: “Of course, my family, most especially my lola. Nung mga panahon na talagang hirap ka, (she was there). Lola eh, mahal ka. Ibang-iba ang pagmamahal ng lola, iba yung advice ng lola. So, ang tinitingala ko talaga is my lola. She’s the reason I’m here.”

Alden: “Laking lola din ako. When my mom passed away, it was really my grandmother who took care of us, siblings. At the same time, the wisdom of the elderly in teaching us about life is invaluable. That’s why my greatest hero is my grandmother.”

Barbie: “It’s also my family — nanay ko, tatay ko, at kapatid ko. Even though they didn’t experience World War II, they are my true heroes because they raised me well and supported me every step of the way. My sister, even though she’s far from me, I truly feel her love and support. Ate, I love you.”

David: “Kobe Bryant. He has inspired me so much. Because he was super hardworking, no excuses. So, every time I needed motivation, I would watch his videos. Marami siyang (words of wisdom) about life, the Mamba mentality.”

(Check out www.netflix.com/PulangAraw for details.)

Grateful Sarah G says Billboard award ‘came at a time when I was doubting myself’

 

The singer during her Billboard interview with pre-event hosts Rania Aniftos and Lilly Singh.

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

March 12, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — This Women’s Month, Sarah Geronimo brought pride to the country after becoming one of Billboard’s 2024 Global Force honorees.

Chosen alongside Sarah G by Billboard outlets around the world as Global Forces were Sherine Abdel-Wahab (Egypt), Annalisa (Italy), Maria Becerra (Argentina), Nini Nutsubidze (Georgia), Tia Ray (China) and Luísa Sonza (Brazil).

Billboard described the awardees as “visionaries” who are making groundbreaking contributions to the music industry as singers, songwriters, instrumentalists and producers.

Sarah flew to the US to personally accept her award last March 7 (March 8, Philippine time) during the “Women in Music” ceremony, hosted by Tracee Ellis Ross at the YouTube Theatre in Los Angeles.

In her acceptance speech, the OPM queen, also known as Popstar Royalty to fans, said, “Thank you, Billboard, for celebrating women in music and of course, for giving our country this meaningful recognition. Maraming, maraming salamat to Billboard Philippines for your commitment to bring our music, the Filipino music, and more Filipino artists to a global audience.

“I humbly accept this award for every amazing and excellent Filipina and Filipino artist back home and all over the world.

“Allow me to also take this moment to thank God, Lord Jesus, for the gift of music. Hindi ko po inisip na mararating ko po yung ganito, that I’ll be able to deliver a speech in front of an international audience.”

The 35-year-old, who started in the entertainment scene as a teen vocal champion, also profusely expressed her gratitude to her parents.

“Thank you to my parents, to my Nanay and Tatay, maraming maraming salamat for your unconditional love, and for believing in me and for supporting me.”

The singer went to give credit to her manager, Viva big boss Vic del Rosario, and her management team Viva Artists Agency, and of course, her fans also called Popsters. She then gave a shout out to her husband, actor-host Matteo Guidicelli, “for always pushing me to be a better version of myself every day.”

Sarah pointed out that the recognition symbolized courage and hope for her.

“Courage to accept and embrace oneself. Courage to break boundaries and defy standards. Courage to rise above all the setbacks and challenges that one artist or one person has to face. And I hope one day, this recognition will bridge the Philippines and other nations to create change and positivity in the world through the power of music.”

In a separate statement sent to The Philippine STAR, Anne Bernisca, COO of MMGI and publisher of Billboard Philippines, shared the process for selecting Sarah for the award.

“Billboard Philippines nominated Sarah Geronimo to be the first homegrown and full-blooded Filipina to be recognized on stage to receive the Billboard Women in Music Global Force Award due to her incomparable influence and impact in the Filipino music industry. She is an all-around performer with consistently sold-out shows. She has entered the Billboard global charts and her songs have reached 110 on-demand million streams in 2023 alone,” she stressed.

“Sarah is known for her electrifying stage performances and her wide range of vocal versatility. She is a multi-talented artist who is able to successfully cross both the music and movie industries having starred in top-grossing movies and popular television shows all the while maintaining a stellar music career.

“She also serves as an inspiration to many aspiring young artists and actively participates in helping shape the next generation of Filipino talents by being a coach at ‘The Voice.’ Sarah’s contributions to the music industry and unwavering commitment to effect positive change through her music make her an exemplary choice as Billboard Philippines’ Global Force Awardee.”

She also noted that Billboard Philippines’ participation in this year’s Women In Music Awards is in keeping with “our mission to bridge Filipino music and the world.”

The award, Bernisca further noted, was not only a recognition of Sarah’s achievements but also a celebration of Filipino music.

Meanwhile, in a brief exchange of online messages with Sarah G, through her team at G Productions, Sarah exclusively shared with The STAR some of her highlights from the event.

To be recognized on a global stage, what was your first reaction?

Sarah gets to interact with international artists such as (from left) Victoria Monet, Luisa Sonza and Thuy at the awards event.

“A pleasant surprise! The first time they told me about it, I could not believe it. I am thankful to Billboard Philippines for giving me the honor to represent our country and our music.

“I see it as an important milestone not just for my career, but most importantly for our music industry.

“May this recognition serve as fuel and give us OPM artists more motivation and inspiration to continue loving and creating original Filipino music.”

What does this latest award mean to you as an artist? How special is this?

“It has given me a brand-new perspective of hope and inspiration. It came at a time when I was feeling low and doubting myself as an artist. This has motivated me to just keep going and keep my passion for music burning (heart and fire emojis).”

Lastly, what were your highlights from the awards event and to whom do you dedicate this award?

“Some of my highlights that night were seeing some of my favorite female artists, actors and performers… I saw Katy Perry, Ellie Goulding… Kylie Minogue, Kat Graham from the TV series, ‘The Vampire Diaries,’ Bailee Madison from the ‘Good Witch,’ Victoria Monet!!! She is an amazing artist! I love and admire her artistry! And she was also very nice that we got to share a quick chat! (Smiley).”

“I also met Thuy from Vietnam and Annalisa from Italy!!! They were both beautiful and nice! And of course, I got to meet Tracee Ellis Ross. I wanted to tell her that I enjoyed watching her movie ‘The High Note’ but was not able to because I was so nervous and overwhelmed.

“The recognition is dedicated to all the dreamers out there, to all my loved ones, to everyone who has been part of my journey as an artist, and of course, to the whole Filipino music industry.”