Jerald Napoles and Kayla Rivera are no strangers to being the center of attention, at least when they are playing their roles on stage. But the two theater stalwarts who branched out to other media, admit headlining TV5’s new primetime comedy game show titled “Barangay Singko Panalo” is a different challenge they haven’t taken before.
Barangay Singko Panalo is a new original game show and sitcom in one inspired by the daily lives of Filipinos.
Napoles plays the character/host, Kagawad Je while Rivera plays SK Kayla.
Napoles — who made a name for himself as a comedian and leading man in TV shows and movies — said he had chills upon hearing that he is being offered the show.
“I grew up with game shows and the comedians I idolized hosted game shows so it was like living the dream for me when I heard about ‘Barangay Singko Panalo.’ Then they told me the format would have skits and gag and I thought it’s a jackpot project because that’s definitely a dream job for any comedian.”
If it was an exciting and easy yes for Napoles, Rivera admitted she was pleasantly surprised to even get the call.
“I’m a radio DJ and that’s my starting experience in hosting. Then I told my management a few months ago that I’m really enjoying it and that I’m hoping that one day I could do hosting on TV. And my prayers were heard so I’m grateful for the trust.”
As a newbie in hosting this format, she said she had to learn from her co-host.
“I immediately told Je that I have much to learn in comedy and in hosting, especially since I’m not as fluent in Tagalog. But Je and the directors assured me that it’s okay and that in fact, my non-mastery of the language adds charm to my character in the show.
“I guess I found the best way to learn from watching Je. This experience also taught me the value of showing who I am and of letting my personality come out,” Rivera shared.
Barangay Singko Panalo presents unique episodes featuring different problems and situations faced by contestants from different barangays or villages. Players are given unpredictable challenges to solve these as they play the games per round. From five, only one will make it to the jackpot round for a chance to win up to P100,000.
The new game show aims to engage all communities across the country as they share in the fun, prizes and surprises that can help make a difference in people’s lives. With the wacky mix of Barangay Singko Panalo characters led by Kagawad Je and SK Kyla, community life is given an amusing twist that will keep both studio players and home viewers entertained and wanting for more.
Barangay Singko Panalo airs Monday to Friday, beginning March 11, at 5:30 p.m., on TV5’s TodoMax Primetime Singko block.
Originally published on Manila Bulletin.
