Carlo Aquino returns home to Viva Artists Agency
Fourteen years have passed since Carlo Aquino‘s last formal arrangement with Viva Artists Agency (VAA), those years marked by roles in films like “Baler,” “Tumbok,” and “Meet Me in St. Gallen.” Even after 2011, his work with Viva Films continued, most recently with Julia Barretto in “Expensive Candy” and “Hold Me Close.” Yet, something had shifted, a pull back to where it began.
“Homecoming” was the word used, and it fit. On February 20, 2025, Carlo Aquino signed a management contract with VAA, the same agency that guided his early career from 2005 to 2011. To understand why, one had to listen closely.
“Siyempre, anak naman din ako nina Boss VR, Boss Vic [del Rosario], something familiar,” he said, and it wasn’t just about business. It was about a sense of belonging, a connection that had endured. “Siyempre, gusto ko pa yung welcome na welcome pa rin ako.”
He explained, “Nung nakausap ko naman sila, sobrang welcoming, sobrang warm, and naramdaman ko pa rin yung love nila [para] sa akin. Yun ang deciding factor.” It wasn’t merely a professional decision; it was a heartfelt one, a recognition of a bond that time hadn’t weakened.
The prospect of working with VAA’s stable of actresses also played a significant role. “Yung future ko naman with them, sinabi nila na ibi-build talaga na maganda kasi nga marami rin silang leading ladies na puwedeng mai-partner din sa akin. So, yun lang naman.” There was a sense of anticipation in his voice, a feeling of possibilities unfolding.
And it wasn’t a one-sided arrangement. “Tapos nagpi-pitch din ako kina Boss Vic ng mga gusto ko kasi very open talaga sila. At saka parang sa isang buwan, ‘isandaang pelikula’ ang ginagawa ng Viva.” He valued the collaboration, the opportunity to contribute his own ideas.
“E, alam naman natin na yung Viva, very diverse yung mga ginagawa nila. Ang daming ginagawa, horror, romance… Sabi ko, panahon na para makagawa ako ng iba-iba ulit. Pero siyempre, gagawa pa rin ako ng romance [movies],” Carlo stated. His return signified more than a change in management; it was a recommitment to his craft, an opportunity to explore new horizons within a familiar setting.
As Carlo ventures into this new chapter in his life, he gets inspiration and support from his wife actress Charlie Dizon and Mithi Aquino, his daughter from a previous non-showbiz relationship.
