
Sparkle GMA Artist Center shared a delightful photo on Instagram featuring Derrick Monasterio alongside renowned actor Piolo Pascual.
The post highlights a special meeting between the two leads, as Derrick prepares to step into the iconic role of Crisostomo Ibarra, from Dr. Jose Rizal's Noli Me Tángere, for the upcoming return of Ibarra: The Musical, a role Piolo famously played in 2023.
“When Ibarra 2023 meets Ibarra 2026!” Sparkle wrote
“Derrick Monasterio, who is set to headline Ibarra: The Musical this year, shared a moment with the 2023 Ibarra himself, Piolo Pascual,” they continued.
Derrick, renowned for his vocal talent and commanding acting style, is set to bring the Philippines' iconic literary hero, Crisostomo Ibarra, to life on the musical stage. The play, which now carries the new title Ibarra...Ngayon, promises a fresher, more youthful take on the character.
“Catch Derrick's theater return soon!” they wrote.
Under the direction of Frannie Zamora, this stage adaptation of Jose Rizal's masterpiece is scheduled to begin its theatrical run this June.
The Kapuso actor first stepped into the professional theater scene during the seventh season of PETA's hit musical Rak of Aegis. After successfully passing the auditions, he landed the fan-favorite role of Tolits, marking his official stage debut.
Catch Derrick, alongside his real-life partner Elle Villanueva and Kapuso actress Ashley Ortega, every afternoon in Apoy sa Dugo. Catch the latest episodes every Monday through Friday at 4:05 p.m. on GMA Afternoon Prime.
Related Gallery: IN PHOTOS: Derrick Monasterio's career accomplishments