A TRIPLE THREAT IN PHILIPPINE ENTERTAINMENT

WORDS BY LEN ARMEA PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF GMA

On top of her numerous projects on television, Julie Anne San Jose is also gearing up for the release of her upcoming film, “The Cheating Game” in July, where she stars alongside her real-life boyfriend Rayver Cruz. But that’s not all – Julie Anne has also taken on the exciting task of singing the modern rendition of the iconic theme song, “Voltes V No Uta,” for the Philippine live-action adaptation of the 1970s Japanese anime series “Voltes V” titled “Voltes V: Legacy.”

Since joining showbiz in 2005, the multifaceted Kapuso star continues to dazzle the viewing public with her limitless artistry and exceptional talents through her body of work that are worth-swooning and consuming.

A Series of Shows

The early highlight of Julie Anne’s 2023 was playing the role of Maria Clara in GMA-7’s groundbreaking historical series “Maria Clara at Ibarra,” which recently concluded, and has swiftly become one of the most-watched shows on Netflix Philippines since its debut on April 14.

Julie Anne admitted that playing Maria Clara for this generation serves as an inspiration for her to become a better and empowered woman.

“Si Maria Clara kasi napaka-iconic niya eh. We all know her as a symbol of hope, purity, and sacrifice. Ine-embody niya ‘yung isang babae na may pinaglalaban sa buhay and pinaglalaban niya ‘yung mga karapatan niya,” she said.

A series based from Dr. Jose Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” “Maria Clara at Ibarra” tackles the rich history of the Philippines and the most crucial and relevant issues in the society.

The well-loved actress hopes that the historical series will influence and move the viewers to learn from our country’s past and to fight for social injustices that are still happening today.

“Para sa akin, isang obrang maituturing ang aming palabas. Ito ay siguradong kapupulutang aral, na maipamamana sa mga susunod pang henerasyon,” Julie Anne said in an emotional Instagram post.

“Matapos man ang palabas na ito, ang kultura at kasaysayan natin ay habang buhay na nakatatak sa ating mga puso’t isipan. Ito ang nagpapaalala sa ating mga karapatan bilang tao, at sa ngalan pag-ibig–sa sarili, sa kapwa, at maging sa bayan–tayo ay lumalaban at patuloy na lalaban,” she added.

In addition to her recent accomplishments, Julie Anne has lent her captivating vocals to the official theme song of “Voltes V: Legacy,” the first-ever live-action adaptation of the beloved Japanese anime “Voltes V.” Her performance has garnered widespread praise, including from those who attended its cinematic premiere, such as Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko.

“An experience indeed! Had the chance to watch #V5LegacyTheCinematicExperience with my wife. It will definitely fascinate a new generation of Voltes V fans. The bright and powerful rendition of “Voltes V No Uta” by Ms. Julie Anne San Jose perfectly match its impact,” Koshikawa tweeted.

“Thank you so much! It’s an honor,” Julie Anne replied.

She also showcases her exceptional hosting skills as clash master in “The Clash,” a talent competition for aspiring singers, and dazzles with her flawless dance moves and singing prowess on the variety show “All-Out Sundays.”

A Love Found

With a successful career comes a blossoming love life for Julie Anne, who made her relationship with Rayver public during her “Julieverse” concert at the Newport Performing Arts Theater on Nov. 26, 2022. The exchange of “I love yous” between the two surprised fans, eliciting boisterous shrieks and cheers.

“Naalala mo noong birthday mo, sinabi ko naman sa’yo kung anong nararamdaman ko. Gusto ko lang din iparinig sa kanila. Julie Anne San Jose, I love you. I love you so much,” Rayver said.

“Gusto ko lang sabihin na sobrang thankful ako sa’yo. Ang dami nang nagbago sa buhay ko simula nung dumating ka. Kaya gusto kong sabihin: I love you, too,” Julie Anne responded.

The undeniable chemistry between Julie Anne and Rayver is evident not only in their performances on “All-Out Sundays” but also in their playful TikTok videos. Although they have been prodded by fellow celebrities and fans about the nature of their relationship, the two have always maintained that they are best friends. However, things have taken a new turn as their connection has leveled up, and they now see each other as their endgame.

“Ako, Tito Boy, sa totoo lang palagi ko namang sinasabi sa kanya na lagi akong nandito for her. Pero gusto ko lang din sabihin sa’yo [Julie Anne] na this is it, hindi mo man alam pero… I’m getting ready,” Rayver said in an episode of “Fast Talk” where the couple guested.

“Kasi ikaw na talaga yung nakikita ko na makakasama ko habang buhay. Noon kasi nagre-ready ako for myself, Tito Boy. But for now, I’m ready para sa mga future plans ko with her,” he added.

In reply, Julie Anne said, “Basta kung nasaan ka, nandoon ako.”