December 2025 | PUP Tanghalang Molave (PUP TM), the official theatre organization of the Department of Performing Arts at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), proudly presented Apologia ni Sokrates, an adaptation of Plato’s Apology. Translated from Greek by Rev. Fr. Roque Ferriols, SJ, and adapted by Dr. Jovino Miroy, the production was staged in 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 continued to reclaim Filipino narratives through compelling, student-led productions. The season’s theme, “Layag,” marked a shift from resistance (Piglas) to movement and exploration. It symbolized resilience, courage, and the drive to navigate uncertain waters—where the sail meets the wind and direction remains open and evolving.
Apologia ni Sokrates unfolded within the mind of a youth, as Socrates defended himself against accusations of corrupting young minds and spreading false beliefs. Through reasoned discourse, the play explored 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 invited audiences to reflect on the value of inquiry, critical thinking, and the pursuit of understanding.
The production was mounted in 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 Faculty Artistic Director, Mr. Joseph Victor Deseo.
The production brought together a collaborative team of students and alumni. The artistic team included:
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: Vernon Red Valencia; Sounds Design: Celva Pateño; Projection Design: Mark Rosadeño; Costume Design: Hannah Vernice Porwelos; Assistant Costume Design: Keesha Leigh Bula; Hair and Makeup Design: Ayen Usi; Assistant Hair and Makeup Design: Sheneiya May Lorenzo; Graphic Design: Jet Layman.
The production team consisted of: Head Production Manager: Wyn Mangay-ayam; Deputy Production Managers: 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 was composed of: Head Stage Manager: Kent Tancasis; Deputy Stage Manager: Jerald Santillan; Assistant Stage Managers: Redz Quiseo and Julia Castillo; Set and Props Head: Rico Dorilag; Costume, Hair, and Makeup Head: Ayen Usi.
The cast was drawn from the newly launched Molave Ensemble (October 20, 2025), the official performance unit of PUP TM. Rainer Iguin and BPeA alumnus Jules Azaula alternated as Sokrates. Riri Mariñas portrayed Meletos, while Kabataan was played by Redz Quiseo and Rainier Iguin. Ensemble members included Genia Garcia, Ceej Del Rosario, Re Delloran, and Deane Tria.
The production ran on three dates: a BPeA-exclusive preview on December 3, followed by public performances on December 4; and on December 5. All shows were held at the PUP Theater, located at the COC Compound, Anonas Street, Sta. Mesa, Manila.
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