The dynamic duo of Ai-Ai and Empoy star in a comedy-thriller that balances humor and heart.
More than a year after her split from Gerald Sibayan, her husband of 10 years, Ai-Ai delas Alas is ready to make her comeback—both on screen and in her personal life.
At the media conference for “Batang Paco,” the film she stars in alongside Empoy Marquez, Ai-Ai admitted the project has been therapeutic, reshaping her mindset as a comedian and helping her move forward.
“Sa sariling panahon, kapag hindi nakikita ng mga tao, mahirap i-explain na komedyante ako. Nandito ako sa mundo para pasayahin ang mga tao, hindi para palungkutin,” she told reporters, noting that her work has been a refuge.
“Marami pa akong ginagawa aside from ‘Batang Paco.’ Isa rin sa mga dahilan para mag-move on—may teleserye rin ako at may concert. Kaya naging busy rin ako,” she added.
Iconic pairing: The Comedy Queen and Empoy Marquez
Coming off massive box-office hits—Ai-Ai with the “Tanging Ina” franchise and Empoy with “Kita Kita”—both stars were asked if they felt pressure to replicate past triumphs.
“Hindi natin alam kung ano ang gusto ng mga tao panoorin. Depende na sa tao iyon. But ako, I just pray ngayon kasi comedy ito, alam ko na matutuwa sila dito,” Ai-Ai said.
For Empoy, working alongside the country’s undisputed Comedy Queen was both effortless and inspiring. “Wala akong masasabi sa kanya. Napakabuting tao siya mula noon hanggang ngayon. Talagang napakabait niya at hindi nagbago,” he shared.
The warm, joyful atmosphere on set helped the cast form genuine bonds. According to Empoy, the project became more than just another film. It was a shared mission to uplift audiences.
“Kami kasi dito nila Mommy Ai, inenjoy lang namin ang shootings at tapings. Gusto lang talaga namin makapagpasaya ng mga taong tumatangkilik ng pelikulang Pilipino, lalo na’t ito ang unang comedy movie ngayong 2026. Happy and good vibes lang kapag lumabas sila ng sinehan,” he added.
What to expect from “Batang Paco”
At the heart of the story is Paco, a timid tattoo artist who never imagined himself as brave until circumstances leave him no choice. When his child is taken, Paco is thrust into a dangerous world far bigger than him. What follows is not just a thrilling ride, but a deeply Filipino story of fear, faith, and the unbreakable bond between parent and child.
Set against the raw, colorful, and chaotic backdrop of Metro Manila, “Batang Paco” expertly weaves laugh-out-loud moments with suspenseful sequences and quiet emotional beats. The film is further enriched by a dynamic ensemble cast that adds depth and intensity to Paco’s journey.
A bold debut for MiVida Productions
Produced by MiVida Productions, Inc., “Batang Paco” serves as the company’s maiden offering—and its statement piece.
Beyond the star power, “Batang Paco” introduces a new production outfit unafraid to blend genres, emotions, and energy, anchored on one powerful idea: love can turn the most ordinary person into someone extraordinary.
Joining Delas Alas and Marquez are Mon Confiado, Ynez Veneracion, Chichi Rita, and Cassy Lavarias, with special performances by Richard Quan, Alma Concepcion, Lara Morena, Natasha Ledesma, Kookoo Gonzales, Gerard Acao, Josh Ivan Morales, Kim Rodriguez, Jovi Vargas, and Quentin Molo.
Directed by Rechie del Carmen and written by Gina Marissa Tagasa, the film reflects MiVida Productions’ creative vision—bold storytelling that is emotionally grounded and attuned to today’s audiences.
“Batang Paco” opens in mainstream cinemas nationwide starting Feb. 18.
Kami kasi dito nila Mommy Ai, inenjoy lang namin ang shootings at tapings. Gusto lang talaga namin makapagpasaya ng mga taong tumatangkilik ng pelikulang Pilipino
Kami kasi dito nila Mommy Ai, inenjoy lang namin ang shootings at tapings. Gusto lang talaga namin makapagpasaya ng mga taong tumatangkilik ng pelikulang Pilipino.
Empoy Marquez
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