Push Admin

6 Star Magic Artists Seal Their “Forever Kapamilya” Status

Stars have aligned for Donny, Francine, Melai, Sam, Jake, and Joshua as they signed their “Forever Kapamilya” contracts

Article (news)

Leigh Sofia Lazo

<p>The “<strong>Forever Kapamilya</strong>” contract signing event lit up the iconic <strong>Dolphy Theater</strong> as six of <strong>Star Magic</strong>’s brightest stars gathered to ink a pivotal chapter in their already illustrious careers. <strong>Donny Pangilinan</strong>, <strong>Francine Diaz</strong>, <strong>Melai Cantiveros-Francisco</strong>, <strong>Sam Milby</strong>, <strong>Jake Cuenca</strong>, and <strong>Joshua Garcia</strong> officially renewed their ties with ABS-CBN, sealing their status as true <em>Kapamilyas</em>.</p><div><br/></div><p>Hosted by the ever-charismatic <strong>Robi Domingo</strong>, the event was a dazzling celebration of talent, loyalty, and the values that have defined the network through the years. In the presence of ABS-CBN&#x27;s top executives and their dedicated management teams, the powerhouse stars radiated excitement and gratitude as they signed their contracts.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/e64b92ea-29b5-4cf0-9599-31379ccdc524_464471000_18465320665047908_4867734356900607631_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="" Forever="" contract="" signing="" event="" host="" Robi=""/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">&#x27;Forever Kapamiya&#x27; contract signing event host Robi Domingo<span id="isPasted" style="color:rgb(65, 65, 65);letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:left;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;white-space:normal;background-color:rgb(255, 255, 255);text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-color:initial;display:inline !important;float:none"><em> Photo by Metrophoto for Brands via Star Magic  </em></span></span></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p>Before the ink dried on the contracts, the six stars were treated to a sentimental video tribute. It was a trip down memory lane, revisiting their humble beginnings, and charting their rise to stardom. More than a highlight reel of their journeys, it was a love letter to the network for standing as a pillar through the highs and lows. True to its mantra, it’s about chasing dreams together, bouncing back from challenges, and the collective commitment to inspire and entertain millions of Filipinos.</p><div><br/></div><p><strong>Jake Cuenca</strong>, the seasoned actor who has built a stellar career out of grit and passion, shared his thoughts on what it means to be a “forever <em>Kapamilya</em>.” “I think it’s determination, it’s ambition, and at the same time, it’s this hunger for excellence,” he said, adding how acting is more than just a career but rather an obligation to his dreams.</p><div><br/></div><p>For Jake, it’s this relentless pursuit of art that has kept him going, even after years in the industry. He remarked, “It’s a sacred bond between an artist and its art form which is acting.” As his words resonated deeply, aspiring actors can learn a thing or two from his passionate advice: “You have to love it. You have to want it really, really badly, just as much as you want to breathe.”</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/95f6ff51-f01d-473e-b7cf-eecb90ae5548_464181819_18465329437047908_868014586603548317_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Jake Cuenca"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Jake Cuenca</span></span></span></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/16be297f-cefd-4dbf-a421-6543c14363ce_464290522_18465328708047908_3187261667205839883_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p>In true <strong>Melai Cantiveros-Francisco</strong> fashion, the comedienne-actress brought her signature to the event, lightening the mood with her quips. Cracking a joke about how “the chairman is the one who arranged the chairs,” she instantly broke the ice, but her words soon took on a more serious tone.</p><div><br/></div><p>“<em>Hindi ko ma</em>-imagine <em>ang sarili ko nang wala ako sa </em>ABS-CBN,” Melai confessed. She went on to share how, during the height of the pandemic, she told her bosses that if ABS-CBN were ever to shut down, she’d rather go home to General Santos than join another network. Overwhelmed by the turn of events, she shared, “<em>Sobra akong</em> [thankful] <em>dahil kung kailan pa walang</em> franchise, <em>doon pa mas dumami ang trabaho</em>.”</p><div><br/></div><p>Melai expressed her deep gratitude to the bosses, recalling how the network stood by her side. In her words, the network had given her not only a platform but a family that believed in her when she didn’t even believe in herself. “<em>Hindi ko makalimutan talaga kaya</em> that’s why I’m very very, <em>kuan</em>, <em>sa mga</em> Lopezs<em> at kay</em> Ma’am Cory [Vidanes] <em>at kay Direk</em> Lauren [Dyogi],” said the host of the Bisaya talk show <em>Kuan on One</em>.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/3add0bc2-8a37-4315-9bdd-1477a318bb26_464264059_18465344848047908_8406972064217284395_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Melai Cantiveros-Francisco"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Melai Cantiveros-Francisco</span></span></span></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/502ae4f0-83a2-43d2-9d03-f2eb7fc3a4af_464459014_18465344455047908_473088582745123394_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p><strong>Sam Milby</strong>, the original heartthrob from <em>Pinoy Big Brother</em> (<em>PBB</em>), couldn’t help but feel nostalgic. As he put it, the event was surreal—a full-circle moment after 19 years with the network. From being a <em>PBB</em> housemate to being a household name, Sam’s journey has been a remarkable one. “Imagine, exactly 19 years ago, I was still in the [<em>PBB</em>] house and here I am 19 years later, still a forever <em>Kapamilya</em>,” he reflected.</p><div><br/></div><p>The actor-singer’s message was filled with gratitude for the countless people who have supported him along the way—the network’s bosses, directors, co-actors, and his management teams. “I wouldn’t be where I am <em>kung hindi dahil sa mga </em>guidance <em>ng mga</em> management <em>ko</em>.”</p><div><br/></div><p>Sam also extended his heartfelt thanks to the production crews. &#x27;They’re working so hard. They’re the first to get there, and the last to leave. They need more credit,” he said, acknowledging the often-unseen heroes behind the camera. In his understated humility, his words reminded everyone that success in the entertainment industry requires a village.</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/9cde6dbc-d6b7-40f6-9cad-05ea58d4e420_464266569_18465349267047908_4850164525871087385_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Sam Milby"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Sam Milby</span></span></span></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/349f59b1-18c2-4c0b-8830-b5ac0cd821f7_464245794_18465348343047908_331913866586413180_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p>For the young and vibrant <strong>Francine Diaz</strong>, the signing felt another stepping stone in her burgeoning career. “<em>Para po sa’kin</em>, <em>’yung kakaiba sa lakad ko na ’to</em> [<em>ay</em>] <em>parang</em> another open door <em>para sa’kin</em>. <em>Para sa mas maraming</em> opportunities <em>at mas maraming </em>blessings. <em>At sa pinto na ’yun</em>, <em>naghihintay sa’kin ang pangalawang pamilya ko</em>,” the<em> My Future You </em>actress mused.</p><div><br/></div><p>Her journey, which she likened to a rollercoaster, has had its share of highs and lows, but standing in front of the ABS-CBN bosses and fans that day, Francine was a picture of grace and optimism. “<em>Parang hindi ako makapaniwala sa lahat nu’ng</em> obstacles, <em>sa lahat ng nangyayari sa</em> life<em> ko ngayon</em>, I see this day as my hope. As I always say,<em> ’yung</em> hope<em> na ’yun ay matatagpuan mo lang sa pamilya lang </em>and I really consider ABS-CBN as my second home, my second family,” she quipped, clearly moved by the trust the network has placed her.</p><div><br/></div><p>She added, “<em>Hindi ko nga po alam saan ko napupulot ngayon ’yung mga salita ko kasi </em>speechless<em> talaga ako para pagkatiwalaan ako ng mga</em> bosses <em>natin </em>to be here today <em>at malaman din ng mga Kapamilya na</em> I am still a <em>Kapamilya</em>. It’s a milestone for me.”</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/f7140003-37d5-4c93-88f9-21042812722d_464194821_18465353893047908_3987129924388787811_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Francine Diaz"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Francine Diaz</span></span></span></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/3394502d-c768-4da3-b635-b9a5c148292b_464464388_18465353041047908_5786440716575702181_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p><strong>Donny Pangilinan</strong>, whose star continues to rise, echoed the same sentiment for the opportunities the network has given him. “Every time I step in [ABS-CBN], it’s like <em>nasa bahay pa rin ako </em>and <em>na</em>-<em>fi</em>-feel <em>ko talaga ’yung  pagmamahal ng isa’t-isa</em>,” he articulated. Despite the challenges the network has faced, Donny is hopeful for the future and excited about what’s to come. “We’ve never lost hope, and we continue to come up with more things that people have not seen before,” he added.</p><div><br/></div><p>The <em>How to Spot a Red Flag</em> star took the signing as equally emotional and personal with the other artists. “I’m feeling very blessed,” he said, expressing his appreciation to the ABS-CBN bosses who would do everything just to have the “best outcome” for the benefit of all. Starting with Myx, he acknowledged his management teams, co-workers, and the network for always being there to guide and support him. “I wouldn’t be here without those who do everything behind my back for me and with me. You guys also deserve all the praise.”</p><div><br/></div><p>He also sent his thanks to his family and his ever-supportive on-screen partner Belle Mariano: “Thank you<em> rin s’yempre sa pamilya ko </em>and<em> s’yempre kay</em> Belle <em>kasi malaking </em>part<em> din siya sa</em> journey <em>ko</em>. And I’m just very happy <em>na</em> we get to do more things together after this.”</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/7f50bc40-0bb2-4233-b7de-a44c76cd5102_464256600_18465359230047908_3326385170767473115_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Donny Pangilinan"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Donny Pangilinan</span></span></span></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/61c29983-ac1c-433f-ba02-9b61c60c33a8_464464780_18465357925047908_1003699335663800289_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p><strong>Joshua Garcia</strong>’s decade-long journey with ABS-CBN has been one of growth and transformation. His speech was a thank-you note to his family, especially his uncle and grandmother, whose prayers and support have kept him grounded. “<em>Gusto ko magpasalamat unang una sa pamilya ko sa suportang na binibigay nila sa’kin</em>. <em>S’yempre sa tito kong pari na araw-araw pinagmimisa niya ako</em>. Thank you <em>sa lola ko sa mga</em> prayers.”</p><div><br/></div><p>Reflecting on his ten years with the network, he highlighted the continuous trust and honing of his talents by the <em>Kapamilya</em> network. “<em>Sa</em> ABS-CBN, thank you<em> sa sampung taon na pagtitiwala sa’kin</em>, <em>hindi niyo ko iniwan</em>. <em>Kayo na</em> <em>’yung parang pangalawang pamilya ko</em>. And of course, to Star Magic! <em>Kung hindi dahil din sa</em> Star Magic,<em> wala ako rito,</em> <em>k</em><em>ung hindi dahil sa tiyaga nila sa’kin sa pag</em>-hone <em>ng</em> craft <em>ko.</em> <em>Maraming salamat</em>,” the actor remarked.</p><div><br/></div><p>His message to his supporters was simple but sincere: “<em>Sa mga</em> fans, <em>mga</em> supporters, <em>maraming salamat din po</em>. Thank you and I love you all.”</p><div><br/></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/2bbc7f5f-3ea9-4462-a4a7-50971839c527_464365017_18465363832047908_2611816859950039268_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Joshua Garcia"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">Joshua Garcia</span></span></span></div><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:950px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img loading="lazy" src="https://assets-metrostyle.abs-cbn.com/prod/metrostyle/attachments/4f00ebc8-b80e-4aeb-acea-a6413825333d_464255391_18465363241047908_1721235229947697431_n.jpg" style="width:950px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt=""/></span></span></div><div><br/></div><p>The <em>Forever Kapamilya</em> contract signing event didn’t just close with applause; it ended with a promise—a promise from these artists to keep shining and for ABS-CBN to keep being their guiding light in an industry where family is everything. </p><div><br/></div><p>For Donny, Francine, Melai, Sam, Jake, and Joshua, their paths may have been different, but their destination is the same—a place where they are cherished not just as stars, but as <em>Kapamilyas</em>.</p><div><br/></div><p>Photos by <strong>Metrophoto for Brands</strong> via <strong>Star Magic</strong></p><div><br/></div>