The quiet city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, just got a massive dose of star power! On September 26, 2024, heartthrob Sam Milby and the ever-elegant Julia Montes, along with the production team of ABS-CBN’s latest TV series Saving Grace, touched down at Puerto Princesa International Airport to a vibrant welcome that could only be described as “Palawan grandiosity.” It was a scene straight out of a movie itself — Banwa Dance & Arts put on a colorful cultural performance, leis were draped on the stars, and there was even a huge tarp announcing their arrival! Talk about a grand entrance!

As the stars alighted from their plane, the whole vibe of Puerto Princesa shifted. Everyone could feel it. The air was filled with the scent of possibilities (and maybe a bit of hopia from Bakers Hill, if you know what I mean). With Sam and Julia walking into town, it’s not just their TV series that’s making waves; they might just spark a trend that could turn Puerto Princesa into the next filming hotspot in the Philippines.

Lights, Camera, Baywalk!

The Saving Grace team didn’t waste time! The very next morning, September 27, 2024, Sam and Julia made a stop at the stunning Puerto Princesa City Baywalk, instantly elevating the local hangout to what I can only describe as “instant celeb territory.” The Baywalk, already a favorite among locals and tourists for its scenic sunset views, just got an A-list upgrade. Picture this: Sam Milby, casually taking in the ocean breeze while Julia Montes gracefully surveys the area, looking every bit the screen queen we know and love. Now that’s a scene worth watching!

Puerto Princesa: Soon on Your Screens!

The new series Saving Grace isn’t just about drama; it’s also a travel brochure come to life! Puerto Princesa’s gorgeous tourist spots will be in the spotlight throughout the show. With scenes being filmed around the city, expect to see local gems like the City Baywalk as backdrops for some serious TV moments. Whether it’s Sam Milby and Julia Montes sharing an emotional scene or new actress Zianah Elise Bataan delivering a breakout performance, Puerto Princesa is ready for its close-up.

For those who haven’t heard, Saving Grace is ABS-CBN’s adaptation of the acclaimed Japanese series Mother. The story revolves around Anna (played by Julia), who goes against all odds to rescue a neglected child, Grace, played by Zianah Bataan. If that doesn’t tug at your heartstrings, maybe the return of the one and only Mega Star Sharon Cuneta, along with powerhouse performers like Janice De Belen and Christian Bables, will. Get your popcorn ready — it’s going to be an emotional rollercoaster!

More Than Just a TV Set: A Start of Something Big?

With all this excitement, the question buzzing around town is simple: Could this be the beginning of Puerto Princesa’s journey as a new go-to destination for TV and movie productions? Palawan’s natural beauty has always been a draw for tourists, but with stars like Sam and Julia making their mark here, it’s possible that Puerto Princesa could join the ranks of famous shooting locations like Siargao and Batanes.

Imagine: more film crews, more stars, more of Puerto Princesa on our screens — and who knows? You might even bump into a celebrity while sipping your iced coffee at the Baywalk. One thing’s for sure: the city is ready for its starring role.

So, Puerto Princesa, get ready! The cameras are rolling, and the stars are here. With Saving Grace set to hit screens in November, it’s only a matter of time before we all tune in to see the magic that unfolded right in our own backyard. Let’s hope this starts a trend that will keep the lights, cameras, and action rolling in Palawan for years to come!

Credits: Photos from Puerto Princesa Tourism Facebook page and Langgay Eugelio