Nurturing VLF XX: The Production and Stage Managers

Traditionally, the word “mother” conjures up images of nurturing, strength, compassion, and unconditional love. But in today’s world, especially for younger generations, the term has expanded far beyond biology or gender. It now embodies anyone who leads with heart—those who provide care, protection, and power in any space they enter.

In this year’s Virgin Labfest XX: HINOG, that spirit of “mothering” came alive through the tireless work of the stage and production managers—the quiet force ensuring every curtain call happens on cue and every artist feels seen, safe, and supported.

These behind-the-scenes pillars—Camilo De Guzman, Rafa Lubigan, Daniel Gregorio, and Sandie Javier—have each “mothered” VLF in ways that reflect their own styles of care, empathy, and leadership.

🌟 “Learning How to Mother Different Personalities” – Camilo De Guzman

Festival stage manager Camilo De Guzman likens their role to that of a guide and parent to the many stage managers scattered across VLF’s productions. Since debuting in 2022 and stepping into a bigger leadership role last year, De Guzman has learned that flexibility is key.

“Not everyone responds the same way. Some need structure, some need reminders, some just need someone to listen. It’s about knowing who you’re working with and how to communicate with them effectively,” they shared.

💬 “Listen First, Then Lead” – Daniel Gregorio

For assistant production manager Daniel Gregorio, “mothering” begins with open, honest communication. A VLF alum since 2012 (starting as a costume mistress), Gregorio has long practiced treating everyone like family.

“You have to listen first—where their concerns are coming from—before you can respond. That’s how you gain trust, and that’s how you lead,” they said.

💖 “Stage Management is Rooted in Care” – Rafa Lubigan

For VLF veteran Rafa Lubigan, who’s spent a decade mothering behind the scenes, care is the central thread in everything they do.

“When I’m firm or when I push, it’s because I care. Even when things get routinary or mechanical in production work, I always remind myself: humanize it. Lead with care.”

👣 “Like a First-Time Mom” – Sandie Javier

For production manager Sandie Javier, stepping into the role previously held by longtime VLF production lead Nikki Torres came with a mix of awe and anxiety.

“It felt like being a first-time mother. Theater wasn’t even my medium—but because I work at CCP, I knew I had to embrace it fully. I had to build trust and relationships from the ground up,” she shared.

Despite the challenges, Javier brought the same motherly qualities—patience, empathy, resilience, and communication—to the festival’s intricate operations.

Now on its 20th year, Virgin Labfest XX: HINOG stands as a testament to the power of untried, untested, and unstaged stories. Since its inception in 2005, VLF has mothered generations of Filipino theater artists—playwrights, directors, actors, and technical teams alike—by offering a space for fearless, experimental storytelling.

And behind every spotlight, there’s someone “mothering” the magic into existence.

For ticket info, group bookings, and show schedules, follow VLF, CCP, Tanghalang Pilipino, and Writer’s Bloc on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. For inquiries, email: salesandpromotions@culturalcenter.gov.ph.