Fun and fellowship at MQAA’s 2026 kick-off party

The invite said to come in red, white and denim to kick off the year with fun — and fun it definitely delivered. The post-holiday party of MQuest Artists Agency (MQAA), the talent arm of Media Quest Ventures, took place on Jan. 23, at Studio 300 inside the Pioneer Center, one of Mandaluyong’s favorite lifestyle and entertainment hubs.

With its bowling lanes, billiard tables, KTV rooms and spacious dining area, Studio 300 felt like a grown-up playground — perfect for the young showbiz up-and-comers, who were visibly happy, hyper and more than ready to let loose and enjoy each other’s company.

I was thrilled when I received the invite because I finally had the chance to meet the roster of talents under MQAA.

Direk Rahyan, head of training and development.

Recently, Mr. M — better known as Johnny Manahan — signed a contract with MQuest Ventures and MQAA to develop and promote world-class talent. Word has it that MQAA is set to be rebranded with a name that shines a little brighter and feels right at home in the world of showbiz.

If ABS-CBN has Star Magic and GMA has Sparkle — both brainchildren of Mr. M — one can only imagine what new constellation he’ll create for TV5 to make its stars truly glow.

Kit Inciong sings the Bruno Mars hit Treasure.

Food was overflowing. Starters included nachos, fish balls, kikiam and even green mangoes with bagoong. The dinner spread was just as generous, featuring roast chicken with chimichurri, roast beef belly, lechon kawali, pan-fried salmon and pasta marinara.

By the time I arrived, the party was already in full swing, hosted by Abby Niesta, head of Talent Recruitment, and Jeffy Victoria, head of Talent Operations. MQAA’s roster of artists ranged from bright-eyed 10-year-olds — many accompanied by their moms — to teens and young adults huddled together, radiating energy and style. One thing was certain: they’re a good-looking bunch with undeniable star power.

From left: Issa Abello, artist manager; Grace Yap, executive assistant; Johnny ‘Mr. M’ Manahan, head of Talent Recruitment and Development; Jeff Remigio, head of MQuest Artists Agency; Abby Niesta, head of Talent Recruitment; Andrea Alvarez, talent recruitment lead; and Jeffy Victoria, head of Talent Operations.

Under the guidance of Mr. M, Jeff Remigio and direk Rahyan Carlos, head of Training and Development at MQAA, it’s only a matter of time before these rising talents become household names.

“We want today to be all about celebrating our amazing talents and giving them a chance to have fun and get to know one another better,” Jeff said.

While the artists continue to hone their craft through workshops, trainings, and guestings — with guidance that builds not just skills but discipline, craft and professionalism — last Friday was all about fun, fellowship and camaraderie.

They played games like bato-bato-pick, a stylized version of Trip to Jerusalem, exchanged gifts and enjoyed raffle prizes. I even got lucky and won an MID mini capsule power bank. Other prizes included AirPods, speakers, an Apple iWatch and cash.

The highlight of the afternoon, however, came when the MQAA singers took the stage and wowed the crowd with their solo performances.

First up was Carmela Lorzano, who, at just 16 years old, already commanded attention with her remarkable vocal range, emotional depth and polished stage presence. She first captured national attention as the grand prize winner of TV5’s “Sing Galing” in 2022 — an impressive feat she achieved at only 13 years old.

That afternoon, Carmela showcased her versatility by performing “Golden,” the hit song from the Oscar-nominated animated phenomenon, “KPop Demon Hunters,” effortlessly hitting soaring notes, before shifting gears with a heartfelt rendition of the Eraserheads classic Ang Huling El Bimbo. She proved she can take on both contemporary pop anthems and iconic OPM (Original Pilipino Music) favorites with equal confidence and soul.

Next up was the towering Kit Inciong, whose confident stage presence matched his impressive vocals as he sang and swayed to Bruno Mars’ hit Treasure. With his matinee-idol looks and natural charisma, Kit worked the crowd effortlessly, earning loud cheers and smiles as he moved across the stage.

Closing the set was Mari Mar, who brought infectious energy to the room with her spirited rendition of Sarah Geronimo’s Tala. Radiating confidence and star appeal, Mari had everyone on their feet — singing, dancing and clapping along — turning her performance into a full-blown party moment and the perfect finale to the afternoon’s musical showcase.

Overall, it was a thoroughly fun afternoon — and if this gathering is any preview of what’s in store for these up-and-coming artists, by year’s end, their stars will be shining bright.