Star Worx artists ready to take the spotlight
LAST MAY 5, THE TV5 CENTER IN MANDALUYONG CITY was transformed into the vibrant epicenter of a landmark shift in the industry. The network proudly pulled back the curtain on Star Worx, its newly rebranded talent management arm. The ambitious venture is spearheaded by no less than legendary star-maker Johnny Manahan, affectionately known throughout the industry as Mr. M, whose vision promises to bring a new level of prestige to the network’s growing stable of stars.
The atmosphere inside the newly inaugurated, state-of-the-art MVP Studios was nothing short of electric. The 300-seater venue was filled to the rafters with a diverse and influential crowd, ranging from veteran press members and corporate sponsors to seasoned talent managers and the original pool of MediaQuest artists. High-ranking executives were also out in full force to witness this milestone, including Ricky Vargas, president and CEO of MediaQuest Holdings, and Guido Zaballero, TV5 president and CEO. It was a privilege to share the stage with veteran entertainment anchor MJ Marfori as we co-hosted the starry, starry media launch and navigated the afternoon’s high-spirited festivities.
The formal program commenced with an insightful address from Jeff Remigio, the executive head of the MediaQuest Artists Agency (MQAA). With great pride, he officially announced the rebranding of MQAA to Star Worx — a name personally coined by Mr. M. The title was chosen to perfectly reflect the mentor’s career-long mantra: “Work makes stars.” The rebranding is more than just a name change; it signals a strategic shift toward rigorous professional development, discipline and a renewed, uncompromising focus on artistic excellence.
The introduction of the new artists was a masterclass in showmanship, beginning with a high-energy AVP and music video hybrid that transitioned seamlessly into a dramatic live debut. The StarWorx 16, the agency’s first batch of aspirants, burst onto the stage with an explosive, synchronized routine to the beat of Acelerada by Sma$her & MYZI. The “Block 1” roster showcases a diverse range of talent and charisma, consisting of Nathalie Apollo, Patrick Ballesteros, Adam Buck, Spencer Capistrano, Celyn David, Rahil Gatali, Selina Griffin, Marthena Jickain, Kaitlyn King, Wayne Leonard, Carmela Lorzano, Chan Martin, Nico Matugas, Steph Razon, Keisha Serna and Amo Wilding.
The momentum continued to build as Carmela and Chan delivered a vocally powerful rendition of Rewrite the Stars. Their performance was further elevated by a graceful and emotive interpretive dance from Nico and Selina, proving that this new batch possesses both the pipes and the performance art skills to compete at the highest level.
Following these stellar production numbers, Ricky took to the podium to deliver a moving speech. He reinforced TV5’s steadfast commitment to evolving into a premier, well-rounded entertainment hub that complements its existing strengths. He aptly described the network’s current trajectory and ambitious growth with a vivid, hopeful metaphor that resonated with everyone in the room: “We’re not in flight yet, but we’re on the runway, building momentum.”
His encouraging words set the perfect stage for the introduction of Mr. M, who then took the spotlight to express his deep gratitude to Manny V. Pangilinan, chairman of TV5 and MediaQuest, for the trust placed in his vision. In a rare and candid moment, Mr. M also gamely answered questions from the press, emphasizing that his partnership with MediaQuest is specifically designed to redefine the industry by honing fresh, versatile talent capable of supporting the MVP Group’s massive and evolving multi-platform ecosystem.
As the event drew to a close, each of the 16 artists took the floor to personally introduce themselves and field more direct questions from the inquisitive media. The press members were visibly impressed, noting the artists’ remarkable poise, courage and readiness for the spotlight even at this early stage of their careers. With the official launch of Star Worx now complete, the audience eagerly anticipates how these fresh faces and voices will transform the local showbiz scene.
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