Andres Muhlach continues the legacy of Adie in Bagets The Musical

The young Muhlach takes on his father’s iconic role for Bagets The Musical.

Bagets The Musical is coming full circle as a new Muhlach steps into the spotlight. Four decades after Aga Muhlach charmed audiences as Adie in the 1984 coming-of-age hit, his son Andres Muhlach will take on the same role in the 2026 stage adaptation. Fresh from his film debut in Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna, Andres joins the new-generation Bagets barkada, alternating performances with Mico Hendrix Chua. With this final cast reveal, fans are all set to relive the iconic magic, friendships, and first-love thrills that made Bagets a cultural phenomenon.

For Andres, stepping into Adie’s shoes is both an honor and a deeply personal moment. “I understand how big Bagets was, and still is, in the Philippines,” he says. “It’s such a huge part of many Filipino childhoods. To be part of it, let alone play my dad’s role, feels surreal.” His father couldn’t be prouder. “When we first found out that I got his breakthrough role, he was super happy for me,” Andres shares. “He’s excited to see how I’ll bring my own take to the character.”

 

This project also marks Andres’ first major foray into theater. While nerves were high, rigorous workshops and rehearsals helped him embrace the challenge. “It’s really about honing your talents,” he says. “Once you start learning more about yourself and your abilities, it just makes you more motivated—to perform, improve, and keep getting better.”

Though comparisons are inevitable, Andres is determined to make the role his own. “I’d want this to be my own path,” he explains. “At the end of the day, the hard work is on us, the new Bagets cast. What we put out isn’t because of what the original actors did, but because we want to create something worthy for today’s fans.”

The young actor came prepared for the role, training extensively and auditioning with a surprise vocal performance. “Ever since I was little, I dreamed of seeing myself on the silver screen and on stage,” he shares. “Now it’s happening. I just feel blessed.” Andres has already appeared in TV series like Ang Mutya ng Section E and Da Pers Family, but Bagets The Musical gives him the chance to showcase a more mature, layered side of his artistry.

“Playing Adie now is a completely new experience,” he reflects. “He’s still the charismatic, charming boy-next-door, but this time, his story feels more grounded—especially because of his love interest.” For Andres, the show’s heart lies in friendship and growing up together. “Atasha and I studied abroad, but I enjoyed my time here more because I was with my best friends. Nothing beats being close to the people who made student life bearable. That’s really at the heart of Bagets The Musical.”

Bagets The Musical will run from January 23 to March 2026 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Joining Andres in the lead cast are Noel Comia Jr. and Tomas Rodriguez as Gilbert, Milo Cruz and Migo Valid as Tonton, Ethan David and KD Estrada as Arnel, Jeff Moses and Sam Shoaf as Topee, and Mico Hendrix Chua as Adie.

The musical is produced by VIVA Communications Inc., The Philippine STAR, and Newport World Resorts, with creative direction from Philippine Educational Theater Association Plus. It is helmed by Maribel Legarda, with script by J-mee Katanyag and music by Vince Lim. The production is supported by Sun Life Philippines.

For updates, follow 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 newportworldresorts.com/bagets-musical-waitlist to be the first in line for tickets.