Stepping into the entertainment industry at a young age, Romnick Sarmenta has experienced various roles, from supporting characters to leading roles, establishing himself throughout his acting career.

Gaining recognition from various award-giving organizations, Romnick continues pursuing his passion for acting. In the upcoming youth series "MAKA," he portrays the character of Sir V and imparts a simple piece of advice to his Gen Z co-stars.

"Kilalanin nyo ang sarili nyo. Kung ano ang pinakamagandang version mo para sa ‘yo, ‘yun ang i-pursue mo," Romnick said during the media conference held at the Victoria Cinema in Quezon City, last Sept. 17. (Get to know yourself. Pursue the best version of you.)

Romnick also mentioned that pursuing the best version of yourself also involves letting go of the negative comments made by others.

“Kung ano man ang sabihin at paniwalaan ng ibang tao, labas ka na doon. Basta gawin mo kung sino ka and be happy,” he added.

(No matter what others say or believe, it's not your problem. Just be yourself and be happy.)

Romnick also identifies with Sir V because, in real life, he teaches college students at Trinity University Asia in the Department of Media, Arts, and Communication.

"MAKA" explores the relatable challenges Gen Z faces today, highlighting their interactions with other generations, including millennials, Gen X, and boomers.

It features the world of high school students enrolled in the Arts & Performance (A&P) section of the public school Douglas MacArthur High School for the Arts.

A blend of teen drama and musical elements, GMA Public Affairs proudly presents a talented ensemble of Gen Z actors, including Sparkle stars Zephanie, Ashley Sarmiento, and Marco Masa, along with Sparkle teen talents Olive May, John Clifford, Dylan Menor, Chanty Videla from the K-Pop group Lapillus, Sean Lucas, and May Ann Basa, also known as Bangus Girl.

Working with this new generation of artists enabled Romnick to learn and cultivate connections.

"I enjoy getting to know more people, especially from that age group, kasi kaedad nila 'yung mga anak ko. It gives me an insight into how I can better understand my children," he said.

(I enjoy getting to know more people, especially from that age group, because they are my children's age. It gives me an insight into how I can better understand my children)

He adds, "It allows me to learn more about their generation and individual stories. Hopefully, I can share some of my own experiences that might be helpful to them."

Directed by Rod Marmol, the series continues GMA’s tradition of producing exceptional youth-oriented programming, reminiscent of iconic shows like T.G.I.S. and Click.

With its fresh and innovative storytelling, MAKA skillfully merges relatable themes with a modern twist.

Romnick is also joined by his "That's Entertainment" co-stars Tina Paner, Jojo Alejar, Sharmaine Arnaiz, and Maricar De Mesa, with veteran actress Carmen Soriano completing the all-star cast.

Meet the students of MAKA

Zeph Molina (Zephanie) is the top singer in her section. Despite her talent and her innate leadership, Zeph struggles with stage fright.

“Crush ng bayan” Dylan dela Paz (Dylan Menor) is a notorious bully at their school who skips classes and instigates fights. Will things change when he joins MAKA’s Arts & Performance (A&P) section?

Ash Salonga (Ashley Sarmiento) is an 8th-grader known for her TikTok dance videos and online persona. Yet behind her outgoing image, she craves genuine connections.

Marco Reyes (Marco Masa) is a church choir member whose newfound crush pushes him to pursue theater. But will this be enough to fuel his passion for the arts?

Throughout his life, JC Serrano (John Clifford) has been exposed to art, albeit through his work at the Cebuano family-owned funeral home. Will he be able to prove his talent in visual arts at MAKA?

Livvy Ilagan (Olive May) is a passionate playwright and songwriter with a dramatic flair. Will this Cebuana find a deep connection with JC?

Chanty Villanueva (Chanty Videla) belongs to the upper class in MAKA. An outstanding singer of her class, Chanty is the pride of Grade 9 competing against Grade 8’s Zeph.

Sean Dimaculangan (Sean Lucas) is also part of the Upperclassman (Grade 9). Sean comes from a family of athletes who disapprove of his love for the arts.

Eighth-grader May Ann Cortez (May Ann Basa) might not excel in academics or the arts but this proud girl from Capiz will do everything to survive an independent life.

Watch as they navigate their lives at Douglas MacArthur High School for the Arts, embracing the highs and lows of being part of Gen Z.

MAKA premieres this Sept. 21 at 4:45 PM on GMA and via Kapuso Stream. Global Pinoys can watch it via the international channel GMA Pinoy TV.