Disney has tapped Filipina actress and singer Kai Montinola to sing "Hangganan Ko," the Filipino version of the iconic song "How Far I'll Go," for the upcoming live-action version of Moana.
The song will be released on digital streaming platforms on July 3, ahead of the film's Philippine theatrical debut on July 8.
Kai said performing the song holds special meaning for her because she has long admired Moana's story of finding courage despite uncertainty.
"My favorite part of Moana's journey is that she didn’t think she was perfect, she doubted at first, but she chose that fear. She chose to seize that fear, and there she was destined to do greater things," she said as per press release.
According to Allie Benedicto, the Marketing Director, Emerging Southeast Asia of The Walt Disney Company, the collaboration aims to bring the film's message even closer to Filipino audiences through a local rendition of one of Disney's most beloved songs.
"Moana has long resonated with Filipino audiences through its themes of family, courage, and connection to the ocean. As a nation with a deep love for music, we’re thrilled to collaborate with Kai Montinola on the Tagalog version of 'How Far I’ll Go,'" Allie stated.
She added that Kai "embodies today’s young Filipinos who are full of grit yet filled with warmth, making her the perfect fit to sing 'Hangganan Ko' meant for today’s generation of Disney fans and movie-goers."
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As part of the film's local promotions, Kai will perform the song live at SM Mall of Asia on July 8 and at SM Seaside City Cebu on July 12. Disney is also expected to release a music video for "Hangganan Ko" this month.
Originally written by Lin-Manuel Miranda and performed by Auliʻi Cravalho in the 2016 animated film, "How Far I'll Go" won the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media and earned nominations at the Academy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.
The live-action Moana stars Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana alongside Dwayne Johnson, who plays the role of Maui. The film opens in Philippine cinemas on July 8.