“Apologia ni Sokrates” Set to Open PUP Tanghalang Molave’s 5th Theatre Season This December 2025

Wazzup Pilipinas!? 

PUP Tanghalang Molave (PUP TM), the official theatre organization of the Department of Performing Arts at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), proudly presents Apologia ni Sokrates, adapted from Plato’s Apology. Translated from Greek by Rev. Fr. Roque Ferriols, SJ, and adapted by Dr. Jovino Miroy, the production will be staged this December 2025 under the direction of Paul Cariaga, with Lander Lumagbas and Samantha Julienne as Assistant Directors.

Now in its fifth theatre season, PUP TM continues to reclaim Filipino narratives through compelling, student-led productions. This season’s theme, “Layag,” marks a shift from resistance (Piglas) to movement and exploration. It symbolizes resilience, courage, and the drive to navigate uncertain waters—where the sail meets the wind and direction remains open and evolving.

Apologia ni Sokrates unfolds within the mind of a youth, as Socrates defends himself against accusations of corrupting young minds and spreading false beliefs. Through reasoned discourse, the play explores the tension between truth and reality, knowledge and ignorance, and the moral courage required to uphold wisdom and justice in the face of condemnation. It invites audiences to reflect on the value of inquiry, critical thinking, and the pursuit of understanding.

This production is a partnership between PUP TM, the Department of Humanities and Philosophy, and the University Center for Culture and the Arts (UCCA), under the guidance of Department of Performing Arts Chairperson and PUP Tanghalang Molave’s Faculty Artistic Director, Mr. Joseph Victor Deseo.

The production brings together a collaborative team of students and alumni. The artistic team includes: Director: Paul Cariaga; Assistant Directors: Samantha Julienne and Lander Lumagbas; Head Dramaturg: Jetro Sebastian Tino; Assistant Dramaturgs: Criselle Fernando, Fe Marie Apa, and Blessilda Marie Basco; Creative Consultant: Jared Klein Garcia; Assistant Creative Consultant: Steph Eugenio; Movement Consultant: Nathaniel Molina; Technical Director: Aerhon Formadero; Assistant Technical Director: Angela Boyore; Set Design: Ruru Magalleno; Lights Design: Bianca Comparativo; Assistant Lights Design by Vernon Red

Valencia; Sounds Design: Celva Pateño; Projection Design by Mark Rosadeño; Costume Design by Hannah Vernice Porwelos; Assistant Costume Design by Keesha Leigh Bula; Hair and Makeup Design by Ayen Usi; Assistant Hair and Makeup Design by Sheneiya May Lorenzo; Graphic Design: Jet Layman. The production team includes: Head Production Manager: Wyn Mangay-ayam; Deputy Production Manager: Angel Corpuz and Aubrey Ga; Assistant Production Manager: Analey Hulipas; Marketing and Public Relations Head: Emma Esguerra; Assistant Marketing and Public Relations Head: Rissa Perez. The backstage team includes Head Stage Manager: Kent Tancasis; Deputy Stage Manager: Jerald Santillan; Assistant Stage Managers: Redz Quiseo, Julia Castillo; Set and Props Head: Rico Dorilag; Costume, Hair and Make up Head: Ayen Usi.

The cast is drawn from the newly launched Molave Ensemble (October 20, 2025), the official performance unit of PUP TM. Rainer Iguin and BPeA alumnus Jules Azaula alternate as Sokrates. Riri Mariñas portrays Meletos, while Kabataan is played by Redz Quiseo and Rainier Iguin. Ensemble members include Genia Garcia, Ceej Del Rosario, Re Delloran, and Dean Tria.

The production will run on three dates: a BPeA-exclusive preview on December 3, with showtimes at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM; followed by public showings on December 4 at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM; and on December 5 at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. All shows will be held at the PUP Theater, located at the COC Compound, Anonas Street, Sta. Mesa, Manila. Tickets are priced at ₱75 for PUPians and ₱120 for outside guests, and may be reserved through Tanghalang Molave’s official social media pages. 

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