Cover Gabby Jaynario plays the titular role in the Philippine Ballet Theatre’s ‘Maria Makiling’ (Photo: Erica Marquez Jacinto)
Gabby Jaynario plays the titular role in the Philippine Ballet Theatre’s ‘Maria Makiling’ (Photo: Erica Marquez Jacinto)
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In a reimagination of the classic folkloric tale ‘Maria Makiling’, the PBT tells a powerful story of our innate Filipino values
Armed with a mission to promote Filipino heritage, literature and oral tradition under the guise of ballet, the Philippine Ballet Theatre (PBT) is set to stage Maria Makiling as its centrepiece performance for the 2025 dance season. The show marks the third creative collaboration between PBT artistic director Ronilo Jaynario and award-winning composer Paulo Zarate—previously immersing audiences in the mystical worlds of Ibalon (2023) and Sarimanok (2024).
“After creating hero-based ballet Ibalon and romantic ballet Sarimanok, I wanted to tell a story that centres on the Filipino community. My goal is to present a ballet that grounds us and evokes a time when love, kindness and gratitude sustained our communities. This ballet explores the enduring power of love, the pain of loss and the importance of preserving nature and heritage. Ultimately, it highlights the consequences of a lack of integrity within a community,” says Jaynario.
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Above Gabby Jaynario as Maria Makiling (Photo: Erica Marquez Jacinto)
Gabby Jaynario as Maria Makiling (Photo: Erica Marquez Jacinto)
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Set in a quiet town in Laguna, Maria Makiling tells the tale of a diwata (goddess) who protects the land and its people. During a local harvest festival, three men—a Spanish officer, a Spanish scholar and a kind-hearted farmer—compete for the deity’s affection. Her choice, however, angered the other two, leading to the death of Maria Makiling’s love.
Sharing the spotlight in the titular role of Maria Makiling are Gabby Jaynario and Jessa Tangalin, who each bring their own unique voice and energy to the stage. Audiences can expect distinct portrayals between the two—promising to highlight Maria’s strength and vulnerability on a personal level.
Playing the role of Maria’s love interest, Juan, are Matthew Davo and Justine Orande. We’ve seen the two in previous PBT shows such as Sarimanok and The Nutcracker, so it’s exciting to see their fresh takes on the different emotional sides to Juan’s romantic yet heartbreaking journey.
Maria Makiling will have a limited run on July 5 and 6 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. For more information, follow their social media pages.
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About
Gabriel found his passion for writing through poetry in high school. He sharpened his skills at Ateneo de Manila University and hopes to write a play worthy of Broadway one day. A self-proclaimed geek, he loves to spend his free time playing video games and board games. When he's not clicking heads on Valorant or roleplaying as a barbarian in Dungeons and Dragons, you can find him exploring art galleries or watching stage plays.
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A creative writer who writes about anything and everything, Gabriel loves to dive deep into the arts and culture scene—as well as going on long road trips for travel pieces.
You can reach him on Instagram at @gbohol for any leads, casual conversations or game invites.
