"Nag-audition at pumila po ako. Kinakabahan po ako kase April Boy Regino po 'yun. Kaya nasa pila pa lang ako, alam kong malaking responsibilidad 'yung papasukin ko bilang si April Boy Regino," says John Arcenas, who takes on the role of one of the most beloved figures in OPM history. With the release of IDOL: The April Boy Regino Story, audiences are invited to explore the life of the iconic singer—beyond his signature cap, soulful voice, and unforgettable songs—and delve into his journey through hardship, love, and perseverance.

Produced by Marynette Gamboa of Water Plus Productions and directed by Efren Reyes Jr., the film offers a powerful portrait of a man whose music touched the hearts of millions. John Arcenas and Kate Yalung, who portray April Boy and his wife Madelyn, respectively, are managed by Tyronne James Escalante. Together, their performances aim to honor the legacy of a musical legend who faced both triumphs and tragedies.

From Dennis Regino to April Boy Regino: A dream in the making

Born as Dennis Magloyuan Regino, April Boy’s life was shaped by poverty, but even as a child, he dreamed of uplifting his family. To make ends meet, he sold goods and entered local singing contests, balancing the struggle for survival with his aspiration to become a famous musician. Through it all, his greatest inspiration was his love for Madelyn, who stood by him even when he had to leave for Japan to work. Despite the challenges of long-distance love, their relationship remained strong, proving that true love can endure any test.

The April Boys era: A phenomenal start

April Boy’s first taste of fame came with the formation of the April Boys alongside his brothers, Vingo and Jimmy Regino. Their first single, "Sana'y Laging Magkapiling,"  was produced by the great Vehnee Saturno, marking the start of their meteoric rise. The trio quickly gained popularity, cementing their place in the OPM scene.

However, success brought its own set of challenges. In 1995, the group disbanded, with personal struggles—including vices and temptations—contributing to their separation. Though the April Boys’ journey was short-lived, their music remained timeless, a testament to their impact on Filipino audiences.

Going solo: A star is born

After the disbandment, April Boy launched his solo career with his first album, "Umiiyak Ang Puso,"  released in 1995 under Ivory Music. The album sold over 120,000 units, earning Triple Platinum status and solidifying April Boy’s position as one of the top solo acts in the industry. His hit single "Di Ko Kayang Tanggapin"  became an anthem of heartbreak, while songs like "Kahapong Nagdaan" resonated deeply with fans.

In addition to his original compositions, April Boy expanded his repertoire by adapting foreign hits. One of his most famous covers was "Itoshi No Ellie,"  a Japanese song he reinterpreted into Tagalog and English as "Honey My Love So Sweet." The song became a massive hit, further showcasing his versatility as an artist and cementing his appeal across generations.

Personal battles behind fame

While April Boy achieved enormous success, his journey was marked by personal losses and health struggles. The death of his father during the Christmas season deeply affected him, leaving an emotional void that weighed heavily on his heart. Soon after, his health began to deteriorate. April Boy struggled with kidney problems and breathing difficulties and eventually lost his eyesight — a devastating blow for someone whose life revolved around music.

Throughout these challenges, his wife, Madelyn, remained by his side, providing unwavering love and care. Her devotion became April Boy’s lifeline, guiding him through the darkest moments of his life. Their story is a testament to the power of love—a reminder that the most valuable success lies not in fame but in the relationships that endure through life’s toughest trials.

Bringing the legend to life onscreen

John Arcenas felt the gravity of portraying April Boy, knowing how beloved the singer was by his fans. "Pinanood ko po lahat ng pelikula ni April Boy Regino para aralin ko din kung paano siya gumalaw at paano siya kumanta," he shares. To accurately capture the nuances of April Boy’s unique voice, John also took extensive vocal lessons. "Nahirapan po ako sa preparations kung paano ko gagayahin si April Boy Regino in terms po sa pagkanta niya, kaya nag-attend po ako ng mga vocal lessons para ma-attain ko rin po ang nuances ng voice niya," he explains.

Meanwhile, Kate Yalung, who portrays Madelyn, felt both excitement and disbelief upon landing the role. "Nung una po, nagulat ako. Wow, ako ang magiging asawa ni April Boy Regino sa movie? As a new artist po, hindi ko po akalain na mabibigyan po ako ng ganitong kalaking opportunity," she shares.

Both John and Kate’s performances are guided by the experienced hands of Tyronne James Escalante, whose management helped shape their preparation and dedication to these roles. Their portrayals bring authenticity and emotional depth to the film, honoring not just April Boy’s career but also the love that defined his life.

A legacy of love, music, and hope

Though "IDOL: The April Boy Regino Story"  did not make it to the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, its message remains timeless. April Boy’s journey is more than a tale of fame—it is a testament to perseverance, family, and the power of love that never wavers. His songs—"Paano Ang Puso Ko,"  "Esperanza,"  "Umiiyak Ang Puso," " Di Ko Kayang Tanggapin, " " Kahapong Nagdaan," and " Honey My Love So Sweet," among many others—will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come, reminding us of his enduring impact on OPM.

John, reflecting on his role, says, "Kinakabahan po ako kase April Boy Regino po ’yun." His words capture the weight of portraying a man whose music touched many lives. Through the film, audiences will relive April Boy’s rise to stardom and witness the personal struggles that shaped his life—a life defined by love, faith, and hope.

April Boy Regino’s story teaches us that success is not measured by fame alone. It lies in the love we give, the battles we fight, and the dreams we never stop pursuing, no matter the obstacles. As "IDOL: The April Boy Regino Story" beautifully reminds us, there is always a way forward, even in the darkest moments—if we hold on to hope and never give up. (Contributed by Jemuel Cainglet Salterio)