A new noontime variety show is coming to BisayaFlix and it’s proudly Cebuano. “HugYaw” wrapped its pilot taping on Sunday, June 22, 2025, with a mix of talent segments, games and musical performances. The show is set to premiere on June 29 and will stream weekly on the platform.
Highlights include “Mr. Campus Pangga,” a personality contest for young men; “Bisaya Icon” Season 2; and “Asa Ni?,” a Cebu-themed location game.
“This is for the Bisaya. It’s where we can discover future artists and showcase homegrown talent,” said Romeo Beltran, one of the hosts. “Director Elcid Camacho is the brain behind the show. We’re here to bring his vision to life.”
According to Beltran, the competitions will run weekly, with monthly winners competing in a grand finals round for a cash prize of P50,000 and possible casting in future BisayaFlix productions.
Promoting local culture, tourism
Beyond entertainment, “HugYaw” also aims to highlight Cebu’s rich scenery. The “Asa Ni?” segment encourages familiarity with local destinations in a game-show format designed for those who love to explore.
“We want to start here in Cebu so we can promote our local destinations and help boost tourism,” Beltran said.
The show’s name “HugYaw” was chosen for its lively tone. “We wanted something fun, memorable and full of energy,” said Camacho, who acts as the floor director and oversees production in partnership with KVP productions, 1FD and BisayaFlix.
“Before, we had shows like ‘Mag TV Na,’ but those were regional. ‘HugYaw’ is fully Cebuano, and this is just the beginning,” Camacho said. “We invite everyone in the Visayas and Mindanao to watch and support because those who can speak Bisaya can join.”
Hosts bring a range of experience
The main host lineup includes Akiko Solon, Romeo Beltran, Enerva Canasa, Jamie Javier and Raffy Buenconsejo.
Solon, a former “Star Power” finalist, is also involved in production. “I’m across different areas — production, judging and hosting the campus segment — so I really have to give 150 percent,” she said. “There’s pressure, especially after the pilot, but we’re getting into the rhythm. This show is really here to give Bisaya talents a proper platform.”
Stand-up comedian Canasa, who performs nightly at a bar along N. Escario, Cebu City, said hosting feels like a natural extension of her work. “I’ve been doing comedy for over 15 years. Hosting is different, especially for live audiences, but the energy is something I’m used to.”
Former “Bisaya Icon” Season 1 grand winner and now host Buenconsejo said the role comes with challenges. “I’m not used to hosting yet, but I’m grateful for the opportunity. I’ve been asking friends for tips — like how to connect to the camera. I know I’ll learn a lot.”
For beauty queen Javier, the show is a chance to grow. “I don’t usually consider myself high energy, but I want to improve my confidence. I come from a background in modeling and pageants, and this helps me overcome stage anxiety.”
Fast turnaround, future plans
“HugYaw” airs every Sunday at noon, with the first trailer released on June 22 at 9 p.m. The team also plans to bring the show directly to communities through on-ground activations.
“We’re planning to visit barangays so people can see what we’re doing,” Solon shared. “It’s really for the masses that’s why it’s easy to connect with them.”
As the show prepares for its official launch, the team acknowledges the high expectations of its audience.
“Cebuano viewers can be tough to please,” Solon said. “But that’s a good thing. We’ve produced major talents like Kim Chiu and Enrique Gil and our own shouldn’t be underestimated.”