Veteran director and star-maker Johnny “Mr. M” Manahan is embarking on a new chapter in his storied career, officially joining MQuest Ventures and MQuest Artists Agency (MQAA), the talent management arm of TV5 under the MediaQuest Group.
The creative force behind generations of Philippine stars, Manahan sees his new role as both a continuation and an evolution of his lifelong mission to discover and shape Filipino talent.
“This partnership feels like a natural fit for me,” he said during the signing ceremony at the TV5 Media Center. “MQuest Ventures shares the same passion I’ve always had in discovering, developing, and celebrating great Filipino talent. I’m excited to collaborate with this incredible team and help create opportunities that inspire.”
While many have described television as an industry in decline, Manahan believes otherwise.
“Some people say TV is a sunset industry,” he said. “I think it will still be a long sunset for TV. We will still be here in the following years. We just need good content — and to make that, we need stars. That’s what we’re here for.”
Manahan’s strategy for revitalizing TV5 centers on the very element that has defined his legacy — the artists.
“The secret to creating lasting stars, not just one-hit wonders, is the work,” he said. “Work hard, and you become a star.”
Under his direction, MQuest aims to build what he calls “a tougher, leaner, and more exciting center for artists,” designed to develop strong talent and fresh stories that will keep audiences engaged.
MediaQuest Holdings chairman Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) is counting on Manahan’s expertise to help reenergize not just TV5 but the broader MediaQuest ecosystem, which includes Cignal, PLDT, Smart, Meralco, and Maynilad.
“We don’t see MediaQuest, Cignal, or TV5 as stand-alone institutions,” Pangilinan said. “They’re part of a bigger family — and we see them working with the other companies so we can reach out to the community and present a kinder face to our people.”
Pangilinan described the collaboration as a “powerful union of creativity and purpose.” He added, “Having Mr. M on board strengthens our mission to invest in Filipino talent, their stories, and their artistry. Together, we aim to bring out the best in our people and elevate the industry to new heights.”
For Manahan, whose influence spans decades of Philippine entertainment history, the formula for longevity remains the same — discipline, passion, and relentless creativity.
“People will always demand content — drama, comedy,” he said. “There will always be room for that.”
And as far as he’s concerned, the spotlight on television isn’t dimming anytime soon.
“TV is going to stay with us longer than many believe,” Manahan said with conviction. “We just need good content. And to make that, we need stars.”
