ERIC CERVANIA

DIRECTOR

Eric Cervania is a passionate and aspiring filmmaker, currently making waves with his latest project, “Return to Country.” Drawing inspiration from beloved films like Indiana Jones and Star Wars, as well as his love for video games and TV shows, Eric’s creative journey began at a young age.

With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, Eric seeks to showcase the beauty and richness of Filipino culture through his work. Through his dedication and commitment, he aims to make a positive impact in the filmmaking industry by telling authentic stories that resonate with audiences.

As he continues to hone his craft and explore new avenues in filmmaking, Eric’s talent and determination shine through in his projects. With each endeavor, he strives to create meaningful experiences for viewers, capturing the essence of Filipino heritage and fostering representation on screen.

“Return to Country” stands as a testament to Eric’s creativity and ambition, and it has garnered recognition by earning a Best Cast nomination from the esteemed Alternative Film Festival awards. This prestigious acknowledgment further highlights the exceptional performances delivered by the talented cast.

With his remarkable storytelling skills and the recognition received for “Return to Country,” Eric is poised to make his mark in the industry, bringing forth captivating narratives that celebrate the power of storytelling and the beauty of Filipino culture.

DIETER TEANO

CARLO

Dieter Teano, a talented 12-year-old performer hailing from North York, has made remarkable strides in his artistic journey. For the past three years, Dieter has been honing his skills at the esteemed Josie de Leon Performing Arts school, where he has flourished as a budding artist.

Currently in sixth grade, Dieter’s passion for the arts knows no bounds. He finds joy in various creative pursuits, including singing, strumming the ukulele, and expressing his imagination through the captivating art of drawing.

Dieter’s impressive talent has earned him notable opportunities in the entertainment industry. Audiences had the pleasure of witnessing his debut on the first episode of FilipinoTV’s highly anticipated series, “Nino and His Shadow”. His undeniable charm and natural talent shine through in his performance, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Furthermore, Dieter’s journey continues to blossom with his involvement in the 2023 short film, “Return to Country”, under the direction of the visionary filmmaker Eric Cervania. This exciting project showcases Dieter’s versatility and dedication to his craft, as he brings his unique talents to the screen.

Dieter is immensely grateful for the unwavering support of his loving parents and two older sisters, who have been instrumental in his artistic development. Their encouragement and love have fueled his passion, pushing him to reach new heights in his artistic endeavors.

With each step forward, Dieter Teano leaves an indelible mark on the world of performing arts. As he continues to grow and thrive as a young artist, his talent and dedication promise a bright future filled with endless possibilities.

PABLO QUIOGUE

JOEL

Pablo Quiogue is an extraordinary artist whose talents have transcended various stages and screens throughout his illustrious career. As the frontman and percussionist of The Soundtraxx band, his captivating performances have enthralled audiences across the United States and Toronto.

In addition to his musical prowess, Pablo has made a name for himself in the world of acting. He has graced notable productions such as the highly acclaimed 2008 musical “Footloose” and was a finalist for a role in the iconic “The Lion King” in 2006, both in Toronto. His cinematic achievements include starring roles in two Filipino-Canadian films that have garnered critical acclaim and left a lasting impact. He shone in the powerful “Altar Boy” (2021), a film currently streaming on Netflix, and showcased his talent in the impactful “Islands” (2022), which premiered at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival. Now, Pablo brings his captivating presence to the screen once again in the highly anticipated short film “Return to Country.”

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Pablo serves as a lead cantor at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, where his mesmerizing voice touches the hearts of the faithful. He actively engages in numerous fundraisers, using his talents to make a positive difference in the community. Through his exceptional performances and unwavering dedication to his craft, Pablo Quiogue continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide.

With each project, Pablo showcases his versatility as an artist, effortlessly transitioning between music and acting. His remarkable talent and passion have solidified his status as an influential figure in the industry. Through his magnetic presence and remarkable performances, Pablo Quiogue leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness his artistry.

As his career continues to flourish, Pablo Quiogue remains a beacon of inspiration, embodying the transformative power of music and acting. His unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and profound impact make him a true luminary in the world of entertainment.

See Pablo’s IMDb profile

KATHRYN MACATANGAY

MIA

Kathryn Macatangay, known affectionately as Kaye by her family and friends, is a talented actress hailing from the Philippines. Since immigrating to Canada in 2007, she has embraced various roles in her life, including that of a devoted wife and mother of three. While her profession lies in teaching and working as an Insurance Broker, she possesses a natural flair for acting and a unique ability to bring joy to those around her.

Inspired by the encouragement of those close to her, Kathryn eagerly embraced the opportunity to be part of this project. With a passion for dance and a love for singing (a shared passion among Filipinos), she eagerly embarked on this exciting venture. It was her best friend, Sheila Lotuaco, renowned for her role in the hit Fil-Canadian movie “Islands,” who recognized Kathryn’s untapped talent and encouraged her to audition through a self-tape submission. At the age of 45, she found herself stepping into the world of acting, ready to showcase her abilities on screen.

The story of “Return to Country” deeply resonates with Kathryn, reflecting her own experiences of having family back home and the tradition of sending balikbayan boxes to them. She believes that this short film is a powerful representation of the Filipino community in Canada, capturing the essence of their shared journey and their heartfelt return to their homeland.

With her heartfelt dedication and personal connection to the narrative, Kathryn eagerly anticipates sharing this compelling short film with her fellow kababayans in Canada. Through her portrayal, she aims to touch the hearts of the audience and evoke a sense of belonging, reminding them of their roots and the significance of their return to country.

MIKAELA CORDERO

KAIA

Mikaela is a rising star in the world of performing arts, captivating audiences with her exceptional talent and passion for storytelling. Based in Toronto, she is currently pursuing a major in Playwriting and Production Design at York University, where she continues to expand her creative horizons and refine her skills.

Mikaela’s impressive repertoire showcases her versatility and dedication to her craft. She has left an indelible mark on both the stage and screen, with notable appearances in a wide range of productions. From the thought-provoking If You Ask Me Film Shorts presented by Rendezvous With Madness/Workman Arts to the captivating Paniwala: Acts of Faith produced by Kultura x AGO Live, Mikaela has demonstrated her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles.

Her talents extend beyond acting, as she has also made significant contributions to the world of theater. Mikaela has worked on acclaimed productions such as Evita & Cabaret with Scarborough Music Theatre, One Song Glory with the Musical Stage Company, Collapse with the Carlos Bulosan Theatre Company, and Sweet Charity with the Mainstage Theatre Company. Her dedication to her craft has been recognized with the prestigious 2023 Ontario Arts Council Recommender Grant for Theatre Creators from Modern Times Stage Company, supporting her new work “Tokin’ Asian.”

Mikaela’s artistic journey began at Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts, where she cultivated her skills in Dramatic Arts. Outside of her theatrical pursuits, she generously shares her knowledge and passion as a figure skating coach, making a positive impact on the lives of aspiring athletes.

With a combination of talent, versatility, and a deep commitment to her craft, Mikaela is poised for an exciting and successful career in the performing arts. Her ability to bring characters to life and captivate audiences is a testament to her exceptional storytelling skills. As she continues to push boundaries and explore new artistic territories, Mikaela’s passion and dedication promise to leave an enduring legacy in the world of theater and beyond.

CHYRELL RONQUILLO

ARLENE

Chyrell Samson-Ronquillo is a multifaceted artist, renowned for her captivating performances as both a singer and an actress. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, she has garnered acclaim for her exceptional vocal abilities and her undeniable talent on the screen.

Having shared the stage with esteemed artists such as Nonoy Zuniga, Martin Nievera, Pops Fernandez, Vice Ganda, Morrisette, and David Pomeranz, Chyrell’s versatility shines through in her collaborations. Her magnetic presence has graced notable films like “Islands” and the highly anticipated “Return to Country,” where she showcases her remarkable acting skills.

In addition to her on-screen achievements, Chyrell’s musical journey has been complemented by her studies with critically acclaimed Director Rahyan Carlos through the AMP Studios-Star Magic Partnership course. This esteemed program provides her with the invaluable opportunity to refine her craft and further elevate her artistic prowess.

Chyrell’s commitment to artistic excellence extends beyond her performances. She has recorded multiple albums that have earned recognition in Canada, the USA, and Europe, displaying her range and dedication to her craft. Her collaborations with Rodney Ronquillo, a Toronto-based Music Producer, Composer, Arranger, and Songwriter, have resulted in co-created fundraising concerts that harness the power of music for charitable causes.

From her early days in choirs like the Himig Pilipino Chorale to her current involvement with the Inklosiv choir, Chyrell’s love for harmonies and collective singing continues to enrich her musical journey. Her work as a voice-over artist in independent films across the USA and Europe further showcases her versatility and ability to bring characters to life.

Chyrell’s performances have captivated audiences in renowned venues such as the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Ceasars Palace, and the Cleveland Public Auditorium, leaving an indelible mark wherever she goes. Beyond her artistic achievements, she is known for her genuine kindness, humility, and ability to connect with her audience on a personal level.

With her exceptional talent as both a singer and an actress, along with her ongoing studies with Rahyan Carlos, Chyrell Samson-Ronquillo stands as a true inspiration in the world of performing arts. Her commitment to excellence, versatility, and passion for her craft continue to propel her towards new horizons, solidifying her position as a respected and admired artist.

See Chyrell’s Music Website

See Chyrell’s IMDb Profile

NYRAH TEODORO

NYLA

Nyrah Teodoro is a talented actress and singer, known for her captivating performances both on stage and in church. With a passion for music, Nyrah has graced audiences with her melodious voice, showcasing her vocal talents at various events including Mabuhay Philippines and Salu-Salo. Having shared the stage with her father, JR Teodoro, she has honed her skills and mesmerized audiences with her remarkable presence and vocal prowess.

Nyrah’s dedication to her craft shines through in her first film, “Return to Country,” where she brings her natural talent and heartfelt performance to the screen. Her captivating portrayal adds depth and emotion to the story, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. With her exceptional talent and promising debut, Nyrah Teodoro is set to make her mark in the world of cinema.

RODNEY RONQUILLO

Rodney Ronquillo is a highly skilled and multi-talented musician and record music producer based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Playing, arranging, composing, and songwriting on keyboards, piano, and synthesizer are Rodney’s primary areas of expertise.

Throughout his career, Rodney has produced multiple albums, showcasing his wide range of musical abilities across various genres. He has collaborated with internationally acclaimed artists such as David Pomeranz, Dk Tijam, Morrisette, and Martin Nievera, further solidifying his position as a sought-after collaborator in the music industry.

Rodney’s live performances have taken him to prestigious venues, performing to tens of thousands, including Caesars Palace and the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, as well as the Cleveland Public Auditorium in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

Aside from his musical talents, Rodney is also a sound effects artist, having been part of the Toronto unit that recorded sound effects for the 1990’s movie “Johnny Mnemonic,” starring Keanu Reeves.

In addition to his musical achievements, Rodney is a visual artist, graphic designer, videographer, and animator. He combines his visual and auditory-musical abilities to create a harmonious and immersive experience for his audience.

Rodney’s exceptional skills extend beyond the realm of music. He possesses perfect pitch, enabling him to recognize and reproduce any musical note accurately. This gift has given him a unique edge in composing music and writing melodies and harmonies solely from his imagination.

See Rodney’s IMDb profile

See Rodney’s Music Site