Get ready for a fresh dose of cuteness and impressive singing talent in “Idol Kids Philippines,” hosted by Jolina Magdangal and Robi Domingo, which starts airing tonight, June 28. The tandem shares what we can expect from this reality singing competition that’s all about giving young voices the big stage they deserve, and what it’s like teaming up as hosts and cheering on these rising stars.
In an episode of Kapamilya Chat, the two let us in on the 'ganaps' behind the newest Kapamilya talent show. Robi talked about how excited he felt to have the chance to work with the idol of the masses, saying that whenever he calls Jolina an icon, he means it with so much respect. He admitted he was a bit nervous at first since most of his previous co-hosts had been fellow "Pinoy Big Brother" alumni, but this time he would be working with an icon he grew up watching in movies. However, once he started reading spiels and doing hosting duties with Jolina, he immediately felt comfortable. "When that day happens, totoo pala 'yung sinasabi ng lahat na ang gaan katrabaho,” he said of his co-host.
Meanwhile, it was also a dream for Jolina to work with Robi because of his good reputation as a generous and collaborative co-host. "Masarap 'yung hindi lang ikaw 'yung nagwo-work, dalawa kayo," she remarked. Before they started taping, she thought about arranging a double date with their spouses to get to know each other better and build rapport, but there wasn’t enough time since they went straight into meetings. It turned out it wasn’t necessary anyway, as they naturally found moments to chat and bond n between takes. Jolina shared how much she enjoys these small conversations, "Doon ko mas nakikilala si Robi tapos nagagaanan ako sa trabaho kasi may mga in between kwentuhan."
The tandem looked back on their first taping day, when Jolina felt the jitters and even a bit self-conscious because she knew Robi had more experience hosting competitions than she did. "Medyo nangapa ako nang slight. Although nagawa ko na ito dati, pero, siyempre, ‘pag matagal kang nawala sa ganu'ng klaseng environment, kailangan mong mag-adjust ulit." Thankfully, Robi was patient, taking time to explain and give her tips on how things are done now.
When it was Robi's turn to open up about his preparations, he first remarked that he didn't notice any sign of unease from Jolina at all, and then added that as much as he wanted to prepare, there’s only so much he can do because the show's creatives want everything to feel authentic, which means as hosts, they find out the contestants’ backstories on the spot and build the backstage interviews from there. Jolina agreed, saying it’s not as easy as it looks. People might assume it’s a breeze for her talking to kids since she’s a mom herself, but these are kids she’s meeting for the first time and who have different dynamics at home, which makes every interaction unique and unpredictable.
"Iba-iba pa rin talaga araw-araw ‘yung mga makakasama mong mga bata. Kahit lahat sila hopeful at lahat sila ay may talento, pero iba pa rin 'yung mga experience," shared Jolina.
They also noticed how kids today are more open to criticism, which is why they believes they've got the perfect show format since right after a young contestant receives either a "yes" or “no” vote from the judges, they’re immediately given advice and words of encouragement by the celebrity panel. Then, once the kids step out of the judges’ room, Jolina and Robi can offer even more support, helping them process things and boosting their spirits with positive lessons to carry forward.
And with the constant opportunity to interact with so many young contenders, Robi shared that this hosting experience has made him feel more ready than ever to have his own child someday, though he also knows he’ll have to trust and wait for God’s perfect timing.
On other topics, when asked about their experience working alongside the judges—Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, Angeline Quinto, and Juan Karlos—Jolina and Robi revealed their refreshing dynamic on set. They mentioned that while Regine and Gary are already icons in their own right, the combination of Angeline and Juan Karlos turned out to be unexpectedly entertaining. "Ang tagal ng taping dahil sa kailang dalawa," quipped Robi, "When we say na ang tagal, na-e-enjoy kasi nila at ng bata 'yung nangyayari doon sa loob ng audition area."
Robi noted that the judges are the perfect mix, because they don’t just focus on technicalities but also make sure to take care of each child’s emotions while explaining things gently even when they have to say “no” so that the kids understand without feeling hurt. The hosts emphasized how important it is for everyone on the show to protect the kids’ emotional and mental health, which is why after the audition, each child gets to meet with a psychologist who helps them process their feelings and better understand their experience.
Support the journey of young hopefuls in “Idol Kids Philippines,” airing weeknights at 7:15 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL), and A2Z. It also airs on TV5 at 8:00 p.m. every Saturday and 8:15 p.m. every Sunday, beginning this June 28 and June 29.