Phi Palmos takes on rare serious role in 'Mapanakit!'
After more than a decade of comic roles, the theater actor embraces a rare dramatic turn in YPC Stage's maiden production.
Phi Phalmos
YPC
Daily TribuneAfter more than a decade of comic roles, the theater actor embraces a rare dramatic turn in YPC Stage's maiden production.
Phi Phalmos
YPC
Phi Phalmos, with Kokoy de Santos and Loudette Barias.
YPC
The cast of 'Mapanakit!'
YPC
For more than a decade, Phi Palmos has built a reputation as one of Philippine theater's most versatile performers, often stealing scenes with his comedic timing and larger-than-life characters. But in Mapanakit! Mga Dulang Bittersweet, the actor steps into unfamiliar territory with a role that allows him to reveal a quieter, more dramatic side.
"I didn't really expect (to be part of the show)," Palmos said at a recent press conference. "I think it's also like a dream come true for me."
The production features three one-act plays: Ang Liknayan ng Ating mga Katawan, Ilihan at Kalingaw: Ang Lihim na Istorya ng mga Buringkantada, and Ganito ang Pinangarap Kong Kasal, with Palmos starring alongside Kokoy de Santos and Loudette Barias in the latter.
The actor admitted that despite his years in the industry, opportunities to portray dramatic characters have been few and far between.
"I've been in the business for more than a decade, but it's rare that I'm given the chance to play something serious, something dramatic," he said. "Usually, when there's a gay character, people expect the role to be funny, to make the audience laugh when they leave the theater."
That made his involvement in Ganito ang Pinangarap Kong Kasal particularly meaningful.
Written by Eljay Castro Deldoc and directed by BJ Borja, Mapanakit! is the maiden production of YPC Stage, the professional touring arm of the Biñan Youth Performance Council (YPC). It also stars Gab Pangilinan, Ross Pesigan, Jury Sanchez, and Euden Moje.
Palmos said he had admired Ganito ang Pinangarap Kong Kasal long before he became part of it.
"It's one of Eljay's really beloved plays. In a way, parang gusto kong gampanan talaga siya. Even when I first watched it, I never imagined that I'd eventually get to play the role."
Earlier this year, he was given the opportunity to perform the play during the National Commission for Culture and the Arts' Art Fridays program, an experience that boosted his confidence.
"I realized, 'Ah, okay, kaya ko naman pala talaga.'"
While audiences can still expect moments of humor, Palmos said the production offers something deeper than the comic roles he is often associated with.
"It's very different from what I usually do. It's still funny, but at the same time, it's bittersweet."
For the actor, who is part of the LGBTQ+ community, the role also carries a deeper personal significance.
"As someone who's part of the LGBTQ+ community, it means a lot. It's an opportunity to tell the story of our community and the things we're still fighting for up to this day."
Mapanakit! Mga Dulang Bittersweet will be staged at the KAL-IBG Theater, University of the Philippines Diliman, on 25–26 July, 1–2 August, and 7–9 August, with performances at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.