Actress Maxene Magalona could not help but feel proud after hearing her late father, Filipino rapper Francis Magalona, through his iconic song “Mga Kababayan” in DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island.
Following an advance screening of the animated film in the Philippines, Maxene took to social media to share her message for her father.
“To Papa, if you ever get to read this 😂 I want you to know how incredibly proud I am of you! I was jumping in my seat when I heard your song in one of the best scenes in the movie,” Maxene said.
She fondly recalled her father’s personality and the passion he had for his craft.
“You were the biggest goofball when you were alive—so energetic and passionate with your work as an artist but incredibly humble and down to earth as a human being. I still can’t believe one of your classic hits is now part of a global production. You really are Mr. Cool 😎 #neverforgotten.”
“Mga Kababayan” is included in the official Forgotten Island soundtrack, with Kings of P-pop, SB19 performing a new rendition of the song originally written by Francis Magalona and Jimmy Antiporda.
Maxene also shared her reaction to the film itself, praising its animation and the way it highlights Filipino culture and identity.
“Mga kababayan ko, dapat lang malaman niyo na sobrang ganda at astig ng #ForgottenIsland!!! 😱😍🥳,” she wrote.
“The movie is highly entertaining, the animation is phenomenal and the message of the story is so inspiring. It’s about remembering. Remembering who we are as a people, remembering sacred memories that make our lives meaningful and remembering what truly matters in life—love, connection, and belonging 🫶🏼,” the actress added.
Maxene attended the advance screening with her partner, DJ and videographer Geoff Gonzalez, where she also met nation’s girl group BINI.
Reflecting further on the experience, Maxene said the film made her feel seen as a Filipino.
“After watching this film, I felt so seen as a Filipino. Finally, we get to see our country and culture being represented on the global stage! I would like to congratulate @lizasoberano, @hermusicofficial, @msleasalonga and @dollyedeleon for being part of such a historic project that brings so much joy, inspiration and healing to the Filipino people. This is exactly the kind of energy we all need right now 🙏🏼”
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“Congratulations also to @bini_ph for creating one of the songs from the original soundtrack, ‘A Parallel World’ (it was my first time meeting them at the premiere and they are all so lovely and full of grace) as well as @officialsb19 for making a very cool rendition of my Father’s song, ‘Mga Kababayan’ 🔥,” she expressed.
Filipina actress Dolly de Leon, who is also part of the film’s voice cast, shared Maxene’s sentiments in the comments section.
“Oh Max I cried when your Papa’s song played. Truly so special! Thank you for supporting Pinoy! ❤,” she wrote.
Forgotten Island follows childhood best friends Jo and Raissa, voiced by H.E.R. and Liza Soberano, respectively, as they find themselves transported to the fantastical island of Nakali, a world filled with Filipino mythical creatures and stories they grew up hearing from their families.
The film also features Filipino talents Lea Salonga, and Manny Jacinto, alongside Dave Franco, Jo Koy, Jenny Slate, and Ronny Chieng. Its soundtrack features several Filipino artists, including BINI, SB19, Lea Salonga, and Sophia Laforteza of KATSEYE.
Forgotten Island is set to open in Philippine cinemas on September 23.