Bagets The Musical shows no signs of slowing down its big barkada reveal.
This time, the excitement is at an all-time high as the original conyo makes his entrance. First portrayed by Raymond Lauchengco, Arnel is a polished teen torn between following his heart and meeting his mother’s expectations.
The 2026 stage production invites a new generation to rediscover the character through the performances of young stars Ethan David and KD Estrada.
Ethan David and KD Estrada as Arnel shot on location at Hilton Manila Newport World Resorts
Ethan David on embracing the challenge
Ethan David is exactly the performer the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) has been looking for.
A member of the P-pop boy group G.A.T., he also boasts a solid acting resume, with credits in TV series such as Seducing Drake Palma, Ang Mutya ng Section E, and Avenues of the Diamond.
“I did theater abroad, but since coming home, I’ve focused more on screen work than stage,” he shares. “On TV, subtle expressions can work,” he explains. “On stage, I have to make my movements bigger and project my voice for the audience.”
Rather than shy away from the challenge, he embraces it by stepping out of his comfort zone with vocal training and stamina-building exercises.
“Arnel’s always all-out for his friends,” adds David. “I want the audience to feel that energy and see he’s there for them, whether in big gestures or small ones.”
Such dedication reflects how deeply he connects with the character. The artist admits that he’s faced his fair share of conflicts about what he wants.
“Despite his flaws, I hope the audience sees how he musters up courage and motivates others to do the same,” he shares.
KD Estrada on becoming one with Arnel
There is no mistaking it: KD Estrada is a complete mirror of Arnel. The accent, the height, the vibe — everything about him exudes a well-mannered charm.
“When I auditioned, my number one pick was Arnel because I see myself in him,” he begins. “I’d say if he were real right now, he would be exactly like me.”
The beloved character is fun but responsible, chill but not one to give in to peer pressure.
“I admire that about him. In the film, you can always see his hesitance,” he says. “That he just doesn’t do things because they’re ‘in’ or what you’re supposed to do.”
Arnel’s strength, however, comes with a cost. Estrada notes that he empathizes with the role’s struggles, especially the uncertainty it brings.
“I’m grateful to have a strong support system at home,” he shares. “But I guess we all go through that phase where we don’t know whether to follow our own dreams or what other people want for us.”
Portraying such depth is not new to him. This is his second theater production, following his debut in PETA’s Walang Aray with screen partner Alexa Ilacad.
He has also appeared in several TV series, including Unloving You, Bola Bola, Run to Me, and his latest, Pira-pirasong Paraiso.
When asked about his favorite takeaway and the lesson audiences should remember, the artist answered without hesitation: “The friends that you make in high school are some of the best friends you’ll ever have.”
Arnel proves that the struggles of growing up never fade. With Ethan David and KD Estrada bringing him to life, his story of friendship, courage, and staying true to oneself continues to resonate across generations.
Bagets The Musical is scheduled to run from January 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. More cast members will be revealed soon. Joining David and Estrada in the lead cast are Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, and Milo Cruz and Migo Valid as Tonton.
The musical is a joint production of VIVA Communications Inc., The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts, guided by the creative vision of the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) Plus, with director Maribel Legarda, playwright J-mee Katanyag, and musical director Vince Lim.
Learn more about the artists and the production through VIVA Communications Inc. (@vivaartistsagency), The Philippine STAR (@philippinestar), and Newport World Resorts (@newportworldresorts) on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Sign up for the waitlist now via https://newportworldresorts.com/bagets-musical-waitlist to be the first in line for tickets.
