A classic scene featuring Alfred Vargas and Diana Zubiri from Encantadia has gone viral once again, drawing an outpouring of positive reactions and renewed calls for a reunion from longtime fans of the fantasy series.
The pair rose to popularity as the loveteam DanAquil in the 2005 GMA Network hit Encantadia. Vargas portrayed Aquil, the valiant commander of the Lirean army, while Zubiri played Danaya, one of the four powerful Sang’gres. Their on-screen chemistry quickly became a fan favorite and helped define the early success of the franchise.
Following the original series, the loveteam’s story continued in Etheria: Ang Ika-Limang Kaharian ng Encantadia (2005–2006) and later in Encantadia: Pag-ibig Hanggang Wakas, the final chapter of the original Encantadia saga.
Buoyed by their popularity, Vargas and Zubiri were given another project by GMA Network—this time as hosts of the reality program Ang Pagbabago, which premiered in July 2006. They also appeared together on the big screen in the comedy film I Wanna Be Happy, directed by Jose Javier Reyes and starring the late Eddie Garcia and Gloria Romero. The two also worked together earlier in Liberated, directed by Mac Alejandre.
Despite their history, Vargas and Zubiri did not reunite onscreen in the 2016 sequel of Encantadia. Zubiri appeared as LilaSari, while Vargas later joined the series as Amarro—the benevolent father of Aquil, a role he also played in Etheria. Eventually, the characters of Aquil and Danaya were taken on by Rocco Nacino and Sanya Lopez in later adaptations.
Vargas’ involvement in Encantadia marked a significant chapter in his career. After returning to ABS-CBN in 2011, he appeared in several television projects before shifting his focus to public service as a politician.
The resurfaced clip, often referred to by fans as the “Aquil, I love you!” scene, has been widely shared online. Netizens flooded comment sections with nostalgic reactions, praising the original cast and expressing how much they miss the DanAquil pairing.
Among the comments were: “Dito ako kinilig eh. Nag ‘I love you’ si Sang’gre Danaya.” “Yan ang gusto kong loveteam dati.” “My favorite Encantadia. The originals are still the best.”
With the renewed attention and growing fan clamor, many are now wondering if a reunion project for Alfred Vargas and Diana Zubiri could still happen. For now, fans can only wait—and hope—that DanAquil might one day return to the screen.
