Marian Rivera and Bong Revilla Jr Topbill the MMFF Entry ‘Panday 2′

Marian Rivera and Bong Revilla Jr. lead the cast ofGMA Films and Imus Productions’ “Panday 2,” the sequel to the top-grosser of the 2009 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

After playing an amulet-guided hero in his last blockbuster hit, certified box-office king and MMFF best actor Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. reprises his role as the sword-wielder Flavio/Panday.

In his new adventure, Flavio takes on the greater challenge of protecting the world against evil forces, this time with the help of Arlana, a lady who transforms into the dragon Bagwis, played by Kapuso primetime queen Marian Rivera.

In the past, Bong and Marian starred in separate movies in the MMFF. And now, along with a powerhouse cast of veteran and young talents, the two finally star together in what is touted to be the biggest and most-anticipated movie in the 37th edition of the MMFF.

Returning as Panday’s nemesis Lizardo is Philip Salvador, who delivers another convincing portrayal of the evil character. On the other hand, Iza Calzado returns as Flavio’s love interest Maria Makiling.

Playing special roles are Eddie Garcia as Daluyong, the leader of the “human dragons” Ragonas, Lucy Torres as Ina Encantadia, Maria’s mother, and Alice Dixon as Ibira, Arlana’s mother.

Adding star power to the movie are Rhian Ramos as Emelita, a woman who rises from the dead, Alden Richards as Gubli, a man secretly in love with Arlana, Kris Bernal as Alira, Arlana’s sister, and Kapuso Tweens Barbie Forteza, Joshua Dionisio, Jake Vargas, and Bea Binene.

Completing the cast are Benjie Paras as Alulod, Flavio’s new ally, Joonee Gamboa as Lolo Isko, Flavio’s guardian since childhood, Robert “Buboy” Villar as Bugoy, Flavio’s adopted son, and Yogo Singh and Isabel Frial as Bugoy’s friends.

Panday 2 begins with Flavio (Bong Revilla) and Maria (Iza Calzado) settling in the peaceful and quiet town of Matandang Kahoy. However, life takes a dark turn when Lizardo (Philip Salvador) returns and captures Maria.

While fulfilling his quest of saving his lady love, Flavio crosses paths with Bagwis/Arlana, a Ragona whose father was killed by Lizardo. As Flavio and Arlana join forces, the two grow closer with Arlana eventually falling for Flavio.

However, Lizardo proves to be a stronger and more difficult force to overcome. Things become worse when Arlana also falls prey to Lizardo, leaving Flavio with the task of taking down the villain once and for all.

Will Panday finally destroy Lizardo and restore peace on earth? Will he save both Maria and Arlana? Who among the two ladies will Flavio end up with?

With visual effects twice as amazing, Panday 2 takes viewers on a magical journey into the world of dragons, fairies, and other mythical and monstrous beings. The story also promises to be more thrilling, fast-paced, and more romantic than before.

Mac Alejandre, who also helmed the first Panday movie, returns as director of this Carlo J. Caparas epic.

The legend continues with “Panday 2,” GMA Films and Imus Productions’ official entry in the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival, coming to theaters nationwide beginning December 25.

Watch the full trailer here: