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In an atmosphere of anticipation, actress-singer-politician Ali Forbes stepped onto the red carpet at the premiere night for WPS, a controversial multi-platform series delving into the complex and politically charged issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea. She graced the recent star-studded red carpet event in a hotel in Manila.

It features a powerhouse ensemble including AJ Raval, Ayanna Misola, Daiana Menezes, Rannie Raymundo, Lance Raymundo, and Massimo Scofield, along with Aljur Abrenica and Jeric Raval.

With special appearances by high-profile figures such as Atty. Mark Tolentino, Joey San Andres, and Col. Danny Enriquez, WPS is a project that holds significant weight for Forbes, not only as an entertainer but as an advocate for national identity.

As the series takes on issues central to the Philippine national discourse, Forbes was aware of the critiques the show might face.

Speaking with CinemaBravo, she responded thoughtfully to the mixed reactions from fans and online commentators.

“Sa mga namba-bash online, hindi naman natin maiiwasan yon,” she said, acknowledging that online criticism is an unavoidable part of the industry.

(“For those bashing us online, we can’t really avoid that.”)

Rather than dismissing the feedback, however, Forbes encouraged viewers to watch the series before forming opinions.

“Siguro naman, sana panoorin na lang nila, and then i-judge nila,” she added, urging critics to experience the show firsthand before making up their minds. (“Maybe they could just watch it first and then judge.”)

Turning criticism over

Forbes took a surprisingly open stance on criticism, suggesting that it could serve as a tool for improvement.

“Siguro yung mga criticism na binibigay nila sa WPS, we can look at it as a creative criticism to improve more our series,” she said, sharing her belief that criticism can provide a foundation for creative growth.

(“Perhaps the criticism they give to WPS can be seen as constructive feedback to improve our series.”)

With an optimistic view toward future seasons, Forbes revealed that the show’s producer, Dr. Michael Raymond Aragon, is already exploring the possibility of a second season.

“Doc Mike Aragon is looking forward na mag-push na yung second season ng WPS,” she revealed, hinting at the potential for the series to continue exploring its bold themes. (“Doc Mike Aragon is looking forward to pushing a second season of WPS.”)

Thanking critics for their insights, Forbes said, “Baka mamaya nga, it’s our way din to improve ourselves,” demonstrating her gratitude for constructive feedback. (“It might actually be our way of improving ourselves.”)

For Forbes, the primary goal of the show is not just to entertain, but to convey a significant message about the West Philippine Sea and Filipino pride.

“For now, what we want is yung message ng aming series na we should stand for West Philippine Sea because tayo ay mga Pilipino, and our advocacy na wag tayong magpapaapi e makuha nila.”

(“For now, what we want is for the message of our series to come across—that we should stand for the West Philippine Sea because we are Filipinos, and we want them to get our advocacy to not let ourselves be oppressed.”)

Embracing resilience in PH showbiz

In her role as both a performer and a politician, Forbes is no stranger to public scrutiny. The entertainment industry, she pointed out, requires a certain level of resilience.

“Dito sa showbiz, mahirap ding maging balat-sibuyas ka e, na kaunting kibot lang ng bashers, magre-react ka na against them,” she explained, recognizing the difficulty of navigating public criticism without overreacting. (“In showbiz, it’s tough if you’re too sensitive, reacting to every little comment from bashers.”)

Her approach to the premiere also highlights the courage behind WPS‘s narrative, which she likened to a documentary aiming to empower viewers with an understanding of the West Philippine Sea’s geopolitical significance.

“Eto kasing WPS is like a documentary na gusto naming maipahatid yung… message nung WPS na we should stand for the Philippines,” she shared, emphasizing the show’s broader purpose. (“This WPS is like a documentary, and we want to convey the message of WPS that we should stand for the Philippines.”)

The vision behind WPS

The concept for WPS, directed by Karlo Montero, originated with Dr. Michael Raymond Aragon, chairman of the Kapisanan ng Mga Social Media Broadcasters sa Pilipinas Inc. Dr. Aragon, known for his dedication to raising awareness on social issues, saw the series as an opportunity to clarify misconceptions and counter misinformation surrounding the West Philippine Sea.

According to Forbes, WPS is designed to resonate with Filipinos, especially when it comes to standing up for national rights and territory. “Kasi pagka tayo natatakot lagi, lagi tayong pumupunta sa likod, lagi tayong aapihin,” she stated. (“Because if we’re always afraid, we’ll always end up staying in the background, always being oppressed.”)

RELATED: ‘Halika Na’: Ali Forbes beckons in new single under Star Music

A new musical venture: ‘Halika Na’

Beyond her latest role in WPS, Forbes is also pursuing her passion for music. At the premiere, she also shared her excitement over her latest single, “Halika Na,” released under Star Music.

Composed by Joven Tan, the Himig Handog 2013 Grand Winner, and produced by Star Music, the song represents a personal achievement for Forbes.

“It’s a dream come true,” she said with pride, acknowledging the creative team that brought the single to life. The track, which was arranged by RJ Jimenez, mixed and mastered by Marlon Silva, and features saxophone by Archie Lacorte, is a fusion of classic OPM sound with a modern twist.

‘WPS (West Philippine Sea)’ has started airing this week over DRZH TV, DRZH radio, and Viva One. On another hand, her song “Halika Na” is now available on various music platforms.