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MANILA, Philippines — Newport World Resorts – known for staging highly successful all-Filipino productions – has joined Viva Communications Inc. and The Philippine STAR to present “Bagets: The Musical,” a major theatrical adaptation of the iconic 1984 Filipino film. The production will debut at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in the first quarter of 2026.
This collaboration unites three leading forces in Philippine entertainment and media.
“The partnership between Viva, Newport World Resorts, and The Philippine STAR is a testament to the power of synergy in the Philippine entertainment industry,” says Viva Communications chairman and CEO Vic del Rosario. “Together, we’re bringing a piece of Filipino cinematic history to the stage in a way that’s both nostalgic and groundbreaking.”
The Philippine STAR CEO Miguel Belmonte posits: “The Philippine STAR is delighted to be part of this exciting initiative. Bringing ‘Bagets’ to the stage is a perfect fit with our commitment to powerful storytelling.”
“We’re thrilled to see this iconic film reach a new generation of Filipino audiences through this innovative musical adaptation,” he adds.
“We see great value in collaboration, especially when it champions Filipino creativity on a larger stage. This partnership strengthens our vision of positioning the Philippines as the Broadway of Asia by staging more original productions and engaging more partners in the world of theater. Together, we are helping build a thriving and sustainable performing arts industry,” says Newport World Resorts executive chairman Kevin Tan.
“With Bagets: The Musical, we are not just producing a show; we are creating a cultural moment that speaks to a generation and inspires the next.”
This landmark collaboration marks the beginning of a series of joint ventures between Philippine entertainment and media’s big three, signifying a powerful commitment to the growth and development of the Philippine entertainment industry.
Newport World Resorts, the country’s pioneer integrated resort, continues to captivate Filipino and global audiences with world-class entertainment. Viva Communications Inc., meanwhile, is constantly reshaping the entertainment landscape to meet evolving media consumption. The Philippine STAR, the country’s leading newspaper, is a leader in storytelling that extends beyond print to online and live events.
Together, they bring “Bagets: The Musical” to life, promising a nostalgic yet innovative theatrical experience for Filipinos of all generations – coming Q1 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.