What we didn’t learn in school about Aguinaldo: ‘Mabining Mandirigma’ reopens at CCP

Actors Arman Ferrer and David Ezra reveal new insights into the controversial revolutionary leader in the hit steampunk musical.

“Mabining Mandirigma” dives into the world of Apolinario Mabini, the brilliant mind behind the revolution. He was the brains of the movement and the chief adviser to the president.

The story also highlights his complicated bond with Emilio Aguinaldo. From trusted partners to political opponents, their relationship twists through loyalty, strategy, and personal conflict.

Radar Entertainment recently sat down with two of the Philippines’ strongest male voices in theater—Arman Ferrer and David Ezra—who will alternate as Aguinaldo, opposite Shaira Opsimar and understudy Anya Evangelista as Mabini.

Arman’s fifth run as Aguinaldo, David’s fourth

Arman is on his fifth run as Aguinaldo. “I was fortunate to originate the role in 2015 with Delphine Buencamino as the original Mabini,” he recalled. “The last time I did it was in 2019 with Monique Wilson and Hazel Grace Maranan in the lead role.”

For David, this marks his fourth run. “We had two runs in 2016, with Liesl Batucan and Maranan as Mabini, one in 2019, and now in 2026,” he shared.

Both are musically trained: Arman studied voice at UP Diliman’s College of Music, while David pursued music at UST’s Conservatory of Music. At the 38th Aliw Awards, David was named Best Lead Actor for “Jeproks The Musical,” and Arman won Best Male Crossover Performer of the Year.

Having played the musical for years, the two actors shared their discoveries in portraying the complex, conflicted leader—a “soldier-president.”

David said: “I learned a lot about Aguinaldo back in 2016. What we were taught in school since elementary is very, very different from what I learned preparing for this role. When I studied it for the musical, it was also around the time ‘Heneral Luna’ was in cinemas. It’s been 10 years since I first assumed the role, so there will be many differences in how I play him this time.”

Arman added: “In our history books, we know him only as a general and the first president. But during rehearsals, I’ve learned so much about his life, his character, his philosophy, and the things he did during the revolution—both positive and negative.”

Aguinaldo stands in direct contrast to Mabini’s unwavering principles. His character highlights the tension between revolutionary ideals and the political realities of the Philippine-American War.

Arman stressed: “I want the audience to see that the problems we face in government now existed in Mabini’s time, too. Corruption is the main enemy of the people. If our leaders put the country before their own self-interest, we would be a stronger, more prosperous nation.”

Meanwhile, David urges today’s audience: “They should make it a point to learn and immerse themselves in our country’s history. With all the technology and distractions now, it’s more important than ever for young people to understand Apolinario Mabini and Emilio Aguinaldo. History is repeating itself, and it’s vital for the next generation to be aware and informed.”

A steampunk musical 

This steampunk musical follows the life of Mabini. Through his intellect and principles, Mabini calls on Filipinos to rise above class, region, and self-interest to build a nation.

Originally staged in 2015 and honored with 12 Gawad Buhay Awards, the production remains a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with purpose. It opens on March 6 and runs until March 29 at the Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez, CCP Complex, Pasay City.

 

 

I want the audience to see that the problems we face in government now existed in Mabini’s time, too. Corruption is the main enemy of the people. If our leaders put the country before their own self-interest, we would be a stronger, more prosperous nation.

Arman Ferrer

 

 

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