Brent Manalo. Ganiel Krishnan, ABS-CBN News
Fans flocked Monday to support rising singer-actor Brent Manalo during the ticket selling event for the upcoming launch of his extended play (EP) “Loverboy.”
During an interview at the ticket selling, Manalo said the EP will feature five tracks, with “Hiya,” “Tell Me How,” and “Malay Ko” emerging as his personal favorites.
“So na-release na may five tracks tayo for the EP,” Brent shared. “Hindi ako makapili ng favorite but I would say top 3, pareho tayo na ‘Hiya,’ ‘Tell Me How,’ and ‘Malay Ko.’”
The actor also opened up about the process behind creating the project, revealing that while he initially hoped to write at least one original song for the EP, his packed schedule prevented him from doing so.
“Sir Rox (Santos) and Sir Roxy (Liquigan) of Star Music wanted me to compose talaga at least one original song. Pero 'yung problema kasi, daming schedule, so hindi naisingit,” he admitted.
Despite this, Manalo said the EP still carries a personal touch, especially with the song “Pareho Tayong Nahihiya,” which became one of his favorites because of its relatable lyrics and heartfelt storytelling.
He also confirmed that “Malay Ko” is his rendition of the popular Daniel Padilla track.
Beyond the music itself, Manalo emphasized that the project is ultimately dedicated to his supporters.
“I think it’s only fitting to release this for the fans. Kasi para sa kanila naman talaga ito, more than for myself,” he said.
The “Loverboy” launch is expected to serve as an intimate bonding moment between Manalo and his fans, something he admitted he is most excited about.
“Para siyang date. Parang date with the fans,” Brent said. “Very intimate. Meron talagang mga interactions with them.”
The EP launch also marks Manalo’s return to performing on a major stage since his “Pinoy Big Brother” big night appearance.
Apart from music, he continues to stay busy with acting projects, particularly the ongoing series “The Secrets of Hotel 88,” which he described as one of the most challenging yet fulfilling experiences of his career so far.
“Multi-genre siya eh. First time ko doing action, thriller,” he shared. “Challenging but fulfilling as an actor kasi you get to do all of those in one series.”
While he remained tight-lipped about upcoming projects, Manalo hinted that more announcements are expected soon.
Manalo is set to hold a fan concert and EP launch event on May 22 at the Skydome of SM North EDSA in Quezon City.