VP Global Management Philippines has announced a significant step towards fulfilling its commitment to represent its talented pool of artists not only in the local but also in the global entertainment spheres with a new and promising partnership with a Singaporean counterpart.
VP Global, formerly known as Virtual Playground, is the bold and thriving management agency founded by veteran producer Dondon Monteverde and longtime sports agent Charlie Dy, which takes pride in nurturing a carefully selected roster of Filipino celebrities and athletes to reach their full potential.
On June 8, VP Global conducted a media conference to proudly kick off its collaboration with TCP Artists Singapore. Dy, as CEO, graciously welcomed his Singaporean counterpart, Sean Kevin, as they jointly expressed their common aim of enhancing cross-border talent cooperation, effectively achieving a noteworthy milestone in the entertainment industry of both nations.
"Our promise remains steadfast — to guide our talents towards the global stage and beyond," Dy was first to say. "We are poised to explore new horizons, forge new partnerships, and elevate our talents to unprecedented heights globally. Together with TCP Artists Singapore, we will embark on the next chapter of excellence, unity, and triumph. With your continued support and our unwavering dedication, the future holds limitless possibilities."
Kevin echoed Dy's optimism, highlighting his agency's rapid growth in the Lion City. "TCP is one of the fastest-growing artist management companies in Singapore. We are committed to excellence, pushing boundaries, and shaping our stars to their fullest potential. Together with VP Global, I am certain both the Philippines and Singapore markets can enjoy the performances of our [combined] stars."
For a start, the collaboration features five Filipino VP Global talents and three Singaporean TCP artists who are all guaranteed projects in both countries, ranging from TV shows and films to hosting and modeling projects as well as endorsement deals.
Familiar faces naturally comprise the Filipino contingent. They are VP Global's Sarah Edwards, known for her roles in GMA Network's "Mano Po Legacy" and "Lovers Liars;" Mika Reins, who also appeared in "Mano Po Legacy" and other Kapuso shows; Dylan Yturralde, an actor-athlete seen regularly on ABS-CBN's "It's Showtime;" Christiana Zaleta, an athlete, actress, and model; and Rob Gomez, who starred in "Magandang Dilag" and "Mano Po Legacy."
The three Singaporean artists from TCP, on the other hand, include Brian Ng, who already has a Best Actor nomination from the 2023 New York Festivals TV and Film Awards to his name; half-Filipino David Matthew Ubaña, a fast-rising actor and influencer who is part of the cast of Singapore's globally popular web-drama "Sunny Side Up;" and Raynold Tan, who Filipino BL web series fans should already know for starring in 2023 hit, "The Day I Loved You."
All present at the media launch, both sides warmly welcomed each other to their respective management bases and expressed great enthusiasm for the valuable opportunities awaiting them in the two countries.
Particularly asked for their expectations working with Filipinos and in the Philippines, the Singaporean stars first cited what they believe to be local entertainment's strengths and expressed hope to tackle these genres.
"I know that the Philippines is known for action and horror films. I am a huge action buff — I have been an athlete since I was a kid so high-octane films would be right up my alley," said Tan.
Similarly, Ubaña said, "Growing up, I also loved to watch action movies and villains. I know Filipinos are big on action so I hope I can star and contribute to Philippine TV."
Ng, who The Manila Times Entertainment acknowledged as a pivotal member of the newly formed alliance given his experience working locally when he did the BL series, said he can't wait to begin projects in the country again.
"I would love to learn even more from the Filipino industry. In my experience, they are very creative and fun and we always have a great time on set. On the other hand, I would also love to share Singaporean flavor, insight, and tradition with everyone and hopefully, the Filipino audience will enjoy it."
All winners for securing a place in Philippine and Singaporean showbiz from the get go, it is also worthy to note as this piece comes to a close that VP Global and TCP's talents aren't the only ones who will benefit from this promising artistic and cultural exchange, but all of us will too, as their ever hungry audiences across Asia.