MANILA, Philippines (Jul 2026) – A Pinoy actor known for his roles in VMX films is completely shifting his career path by diving into intense theater productions and competitive independent film festivals.
Victor “VR” Relosa recently stood out as one of only 20 participants selected for an intensive acting workshop organized by the Film Development Council of the Philippines. The 10-day program, which concluded on July 16, exposed the rising artist to various industry methodologies from local directors Laurice Guillen, Jose Javier Reyes, and Joel Lamangan. Relosa noted that the training gave him deep insights into what directors expect behind the monitor.
From short films to musical theater
Film enthusiasts can catch his growth in upcoming local film festivals. In the short film “Hoy, Hoy, Ingat!” screening at the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival from Aug. 6 to 18, Relosa plays a hardworking older brother trying to reclaim a family vehicle. The film, directed by Norvin De Los Santos, previously won the Critics Prize at the 2025 QCinema International Film Festival.
Relosa also takes the lead role in “Starfish,” a short film for the CinePanalo Film Festival 2026, where he portrays a former Manila macho dancer returning to his home province. Stepping even further out of his comfort zone, the actor made his musical theater debut in June in a historical, community-driven play in Quezon City, mastering eight songs across 10 intensive weekend rehearsals.
Tackling psychological thrillers
The actor is now moving toward mainstream and independent horror features. He joins the psychological horror movie “Immaculada,” a project backed by the funding program of the Film Development Council of the Philippines. Relosa will also appear alongside Cedrick Juan and Jennica Garcia in the thriller “Andoy,” further cementing his transition into more complex, challenging roles.
