Bongga Ka, ’Day!: The Annie Batungbakal Musical became one of the most talked-about theater openings of the season when it began its run at the Newport Performing Arts Theater on September 18, 2026.
Photo: Full House Theater Company
Throughout its opening weekend, thousands of theatergoers turned into partygoers as Hotdog’s timeless hits, energetic choreography, retro fashion, Filipino comedy, and kilig-filled romance brought 1970s Manila to life on stage.
The production reunites Newport World Resorts, VIVA Communications, and The Philippine STAR for another major Filipino musical. Among those present at the premiere were Newport World Resorts executive chairman Kevin L. Tan, VIVA Communications Inc. chairman of the board Vicente “Boss Vic” del Rosario Jr., and The Philippine STAR president and CEO Miguel G. Belmonte.
View this post on Instagram
Also in attendance were Aga Muhlach and Charlene Gonzalez-Muhlach, who came to support their daughter Atasha as she took on the title role of Annie Batungbakal. She leads an all-Filipino cast alongside Sam Concepcion as Romer and KD Estrada as Burn, with Jeff Moses and Anthony Rosaldo alternating as Romer. Veteran performers Jackie Lou Blanco and John Lapus bring their celebrated artistry to the roles of Aurora Pasion and Tarurit, respectively.
Hotdog songs featured in the musical include “Bongga Ka, ’Day,” “Annie Batungbakal,” “Pers Lab,” “Akala Ko,” “Kulang,” and “Ikaw ang Miss Universe ng Buhay Ko.” The ensemble also performs large production numbers, including “BADAF Forever.”
View this post on Instagram
Staged in association with PETA Plus, the musical runs until October 31, 2026, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.
Tickets are available online via TicketWorld, at all TicketWorld outlets, and at the Newport World Resorts Box Office: ₱4,500 (SVIP), ₱4,000 (VIP), ₱3,400 (GOLD), ₱2,400 (SILVER), and ₱1,300 (BRONZE).
Learn more about the cast and production by following Newport World Resorts (@newportworldresorts), VIVA Communications Inc. (@vivaartistsagency), and The Philippine STAR (@philippinestar) on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
ALSO READ: Atty. Edward Chico Brings Laugh Control to Newport Performing Arts Theater This December
Do you have a story for the WhenInManila.com Team? Email us at wheninmanila@gmail.com or send us a direct message at WhenInManila.com’s Facebook Page. Interact with the team and join the WhenInManila.com community at WIM Squad, and join our Viber group to stay updated with the latest around the Philippines and beyond!
