Rochelle Pangilinan, Zanjoe Marudo, Zion Cruz bring first love and kundiman to 'Apol of My Ai'

At the heart of “Apol of My Ai,” one of seven full-length films competing in the 2026 CinePanalo Film Festival, is the coming-of-age story of Apol, a grade-schooler who discovers first love and the Filipino musical tradition of kundiman. Directed by Thop Nazareno, the film follows Apolinario “Apol” Medina Jr. (Zion Cruz) as he joins the Quiapo Elementary Chorale under Ma'am Ai (Rochelle Pangilinan). As he learns Filipino classics and develops an innocent crush on his teacher, Apol begins to navigate new emotions and changes within his family. Kundiman also connects Apol to his father, Tatay Poli (Zanjoe Marudo), an overseas Filipino worker who performs Filipino classics with a band. Through their shared love of music, father and son find a connection amid the changes in their relationship. Featuring songs such as “Bituing Marikit,” “Ikaw ang Ligaya Ko,” “Ano Kaya ang Kapalaran,” and “Mutya ng Irog,” the film presents kundiman through the eyes of a younger generation, giving the timeless tradition a fresh and relatable perspective. Take a closer look at Apol of My Ai and its celebration of Filipino music in this gallery.