(From left) Vito Quizon, Jaime Yllana, Icee Ejercito, Ryan Walcher, Rob Walcher, Ashley Diaz, Gabbi Ejercito and Jac Abellana | PHOTOS FROM VIVA ARTISTS AGENCY
New VAA roster acknowledges industry access tied to legacy names while emphasizing individual merit and career sustainability.
MANILA — Viva Artists Agency has introduced a new group of young performers drawn from well-known entertainment families, marking a generational shift as the industry adapts to streaming and digital-first platforms.
The roster includes Vito Quizon; Ashley Diaz; sisters Gabbi Ejercito and Icee Ejercito; brothers Rob Walcher and Ryan Walcher; Jac Abellana; and Jaime Yllana.
Quizon is the son of Vandolph Quizon and the grandson of Alma Moreno and comedy icon Dolphy. Diaz is the daughter of Joko Diaz and granddaughter of Paquito Diaz. The Ejercito sisters are the daughters of Gary Estrada and Bernadette Allyson. The Walcher siblings are the sons of Patricia Javier and Robert Walcher. Abellana is the son of Jojo Abellana, while Yllana is the son of Anjo Yllana.
Access and expectations
The emergence of second-generation performers continues to draw attention, often framed through the term “nepo baby.” Members of the group have acknowledged that family ties may open doors, while stressing that sustained careers depend on training, discipline and audience reception.
Industry observers note that visibility alone is insufficient. Performers are ultimately assessed on range, consistency and their ability to adapt to evolving formats.
Early projects and direction
Some of the artists have begun appearing in Viva-backed productions, including My Husband is a Mafia Boss and Hell University, with additional titles such as Project Loki in development under Viva Entertainment.
The agency’s rollout reflects a broader shift toward platform-driven content, where emerging talent is introduced through digital and streaming channels.
For this new roster, the transition from inherited recognition to individual credibility remains the defining test.
