In a time when many Filipinos feel burdened by uncertainty, division, and political fatigue, one theater production dares to spark a national awakening — and it’s doing so with blazing emotion, hard truths, and unforgettable music.
‘Bonifacio: Ang Supremo Isang Musikal’ is back onstage with renewed fervor, opening on August 2, 2025, at the St. Scholastica College Theater in Manila. But this isn’t just a rerun of the acclaimed 2013 production, this version, led by PHILSTAGERS Foundation, promises to strike deeper chords, stir stronger emotions, and reintroduce the revolutionary spirit of Andres Bonifacio in ways that reflect the country’s current landscape.
At the helm of this revival is the multi-hyphenate Atty. Vince Tañada — a lawyer by degree, but a playwright, director, actor, and producer by passion. Alongside him is Johnrey Rivas, an award-winning actor and the current President of PHILSTAGERS, one of the country’s most celebrated independent theater companies. Together, they are not just retelling history, they are reshaping how the nation sees its heroes and, more importantly, itself.
“We need a Bonifacio now more than ever,” shares Tañada. “With everything our nation is going through, we want to show our fellow Filipinos that we should never lose hope. We must rise, believe in ourselves, and embrace our identity as Filipinos. This is our way of confronting the current challenges in our country — through the power of theater, to inspire change and ignite patriotism.”
Few figures in Philippine theater possess the kind of resume that Atty. Vince Tañada does. After passing the bar exam 25 years ago, Tañada made a vow that would change the trajectory of his life, and that of Philippine theater.
“Exactly 25 years ago, the day I passed the bar exam, I promised myself I would also pursue my love for theater, and that’s when I founded this company,” he says.
That company, now known as PHILSTAGERS Foundation, has grown into a cultural institution, winning national acclaim for its sharp, socially relevant, and emotionally driven productions. Tañada’s career has been a balancing act of passion and principle — with law taking a backseat to the stage, but never the purpose behind it. In 2022, his film ‘Katips’, which he wrote, directed, and starred in, swept the FAMAS Awards, taking home ‘Best Picture’, ‘Best Director’, ‘Best Actor’, and ‘Best Original Screenplay’, cementing his place not just in theater but also in Philippine cinema.
But for Tañada, the accolades are just bonuses. What fuels him is something more profound, the ability to move people, ignite conversations, and make audiences believe in the transformative power of the arts.
This is a new kind of ‘Bonifacio’. In its original 2013 staging, ‘Bonifacio: Ang Supremo’ was an electrifying mix of choreography, fast-paced action, and raw energy. In contrast, this 2025 revival taps into deeper emotional terrain.
“Before, it was more physically demanding, active, energetic, full of movement. But today, the approach is more dramatic, more emotional,” Tañada explains. “What remains the same is how much love we pour into every performance, because this is our tribute to the country we love.”
The production stars Tañada himself, alongside Johnrey Rivas — both recipients of prestigious FAMAS and Star Awards — and features a massive ensemble of over 50 passionate PHILSTAGERS performers. Known for their discipline, dynamism, and emotional precision, the company has built a loyal following for bringing stories to life that reflect the Filipino experience in its rawest, realest form.
The heartbeat of this production is not just in its cast or story — it’s in the legacy of love that fuels its creation. Vince’s mother, Emy, designs all the intricate period costumes for the show, while his son, aptly named Peter Parker, is following in his father’s footsteps as a theater actor.
“Even if my legal profession took the back seat, I’m fulfilled because I’m surrounded by people who genuinely love what they do. I’m proud of this community, and I’m especially proud of my son, Peter Parker,” says Tañada.
And he’s not alone in his pride. Tañada credits the PHILSTAGERS team and Johnrey Rivas for their relentless dedication and artistry.
“Thank you for loving your craft and for making PHILSTAGERS the talk-of-the-town theater company, known for producing some of the best and most powerful stage plays today.”
This isn’t just a history lesson or a musical — this is a cultural movement wrapped in song and story. With themes of hope, resilience, and national identity, ‘Bonifacio: Ang Supremo Isang Musikal’ dares to ask…What does it mean to be a Filipino today?
Whether you’re a student of history or simply someone in search of inspiration, this is one show you can’t afford to miss.
‘BONIFACIO: Ang Supremo Isang Musikal’ opens on August the 2nd, 2025, 4:00 o’clock p.m. at St. Scholastica College Theater, Leon Guinto Street, Ermita, Manila. The show will run until April 2026.
Tickets are priced at SVIP – ₱1,500, VIP – ₱1,000, General Admission – ₱700 and Balcony – ₱500
For ticket inquiries and bookings, please call
+63 977 471 3112 / +63 917 164 5078 and +63 956 669 0335.
In a world overwhelmed by noise, this musical dares to speak from the soul — and it just might awaken the Supremo in all of us.
