By Eric Borromeo
Beaver Magtalas continues to expand his creative journey by taking on projects that challenge his artistry and showcase meaningful Filipino stories. From his P-pop training experience to his return to acting through independent cinema, Magtalas proves that his passion for storytelling remains strong as he takes on a significant role in the Cinemalaya 2026 entry “Kaka Sa Yawan (Brothers by the River).”
Magtalas portrays Niko, a young man from Manila who returns to Mindoro to fulfill a promise made to his childhood best friend Ayan, a member of the Mangyan-Tadyawan community.
Written and directed by Alpha Habon, the film explores themes of friendship, memories, cultural preservation, and the importance of understanding the traditions of indigenous Filipino communities. It was filmed in Sitio Gran Vida, Socorro, Oriental Mindoro, where the cast and production team immersed themselves in the community’s way of life.
For Magtalas, being part of Cinemalaya was a meaningful milestone. However, accepting the role required commitment and careful time management. While undergoing P-pop training, he traveled to Mindoro every Friday for filming and returned to Manila every Sunday night to continue his responsibilities.
“I was away from acting for almost a year because of my P-pop training. When my management learned it was a Cinemalaya project, they allowed me to do it,” he shared.
Despite his current focus on music, Magtalas emphasized that acting remains an important part of his artistic journey.
“Acting is still my first love,” he said.
Taking on the role of Niko also allowed him to experience a different environment beyond the fast-paced city life. During his stay in Mindoro, he gained a deeper appreciation for the simplicity and harmony embraced by the Mangyan-Tadyawan community.
“I admired their attitude of taking only what’s enough. They are peaceful and truly connected with nature,” Magtalas shared.
The experience gave him a new perspective on happiness and reminded him that fulfillment can come from appreciating simple moments, meaningful relationships, and a closer connection with nature. The peaceful surroundings of Mindoro also brought back memories of his hometown in Nueva Ecija and the simpler lifestyle he experienced growing up.
Beyond its story of friendship, Magtalas believes Kaka Sa Yawan highlights the importance of preserving Filipino identity and heritage.
“Culture is something we should never forget. We want to show that we are all Filipinos, and it is important to preserve our heritage,” he said.
He also discovered that while indigenous communities continue to honor their traditions, they are also adapting to modern changes. Even in remote areas, technology has become part of everyday life.
“They already have Wi-Fi there. Many of them use cellphones and even know local celebrities,” Magtalas shared.
Through the film, Magtalas hopes audiences will gain a deeper understanding of communities that are rarely featured in mainstream storytelling. He believes films like Kaka Sa Yawan help connect Filipinos by sharing different experiences and perspectives.
Adding authenticity to the project, the film features actual members of the Mangyan-Tadyawan community. Young actors Bryce Nicolo Mercader and Dennis Dato portray the younger versions of the characters, while Magtalas and Benedix Ramos take on their adult roles.
For Magtalas, Kaka Sa Yawan is more than an acting opportunity—it is a meaningful platform to celebrate friendship, culture, and Filipino traditions.
Produced by Ana Liza Aklan under Bryce Entertainment Production and IGMM Film Productions, Kaka Sa Yawan (Brothers by the River) is an official full-length entry to Cinemalaya 2026: Reel Reflections.
The film will screen from August 6 to 18 at Red Carpet Cinemas in Shangri-La Plaza, Gateway Cineplex 18, and selected Ayala Malls Cinemas.
Through this project, Beaver Magtalas hopes viewers will recognize the beauty of Mangyan-Tadyawan culture and appreciate the importance of preserving the stories and traditions that continue to shape Filipino identity.
PHOTO COURTESY: Bryce Entertainment Production
