Filipino series across different genres, from romantic comedies to stories tackling more complex social themes.
For Creative and Managing Director Maki Javier, the decision to venture into vertical storytelling was driven by the growing number of audiences consuming vertical dramas from other countries, particularly Chinese productions.
“We saw the need because we consume so many verticals, especially Chinese dramas. So we wanted a vertical series platform that would champion Filipino stories,” Javier said in an interview.
Rather than focus on one particular type of story, KayaFlix caters to viewers with different interests and moods.
Something for everyone
“It has a mockumentary about pre-colonial trans-feminism and land grabbing. But it also has a rom-com. So they’re really different. There’s something for everyone,” Javier added.
The platform already had about 300 episodes at the official media launch on Aug. 12 with additional series lined up for release. He said eight more were expected, followed by another four for the next batch as KayaFlix continues to expand its catalog.
The web version is already available for registration, while the iOS and Android applications were expected to become available before the end of August, pending the platforms’ approval.
KayaFlix offers a P79 option for viewers who want to try the service, while its monthly subscription costs P199. Some episodes are also available for free, allowing audiences to sample the platform before subscribing.
Javier said the variety of content is one of the reasons audiences may find something worth watching on KayaFlix.
“I feel like, if I were a viewer, I could find a story on Kaya. It could be as simple as a conversation like ours, but we could also find something deeper in that conversation. Kaya can go as deep as land grabbing or as deep as transhumanism. But you can also go light with something neat and cute,” Javier said.
Opportunities for creatives
The platform’s approach also reflects his larger goal of creating opportunities for Filipino creatives, particularly those outside Metro Manila.
KayaFlix’s idea for the platform was inspired by Javier’s experience as a judge at a student film festival at Bulacan State University. He was impressed by the work of student filmmakers and wondered where their stories could be seen after the festival ended.
That experience eventually shaped KayaFlix’s mission to provide a digital home for emerging storytellers whose work might otherwise have limited exposure.
“I’m really passionate about giving opportunities to my fellow Filipino talents, whether they’re from the province or elsewhere. The team behind Kaya also has a portfolio, because we believe that Filipino talent can do it,” Javier said.
KayaFlix specifically aims to support student filmmakers and emerging storytellers from provincial and regional communities. The platform hopes to help student productions reach audiences beyond university screenings and thesis defenses.
Episodes generally run for about one to two minutes. As for what types of stories could perform best, Javier said there is no single formula.
“I feel that when you consume something vertically, you’re looking for something based on what you’re feeling. Are you angry? Are you sad? So you’ll look for something that can pick you up. It could be horror or a thriller. But most of the time, when you’re feeling down, you want to escape or feel better, so it’s usually a rom-com, I believe,” Javier said.
KayaFlix’s inaugural lineup reflects that range, with titles including “Dulo’t Dulo (Sa Dulo’t Dulo, Isinulat Para Magwakas),” a boys’ love series headlined by Sky Quizon and Migs Almendras; “Sanctum,” a horror girls’ love series; and “Lupang Hiraya,” a political drama. The platform also features performances from Migs Almendras, Mara Caparas and EJ Jallorina.
With its growing library, KayaFlix hopes to establish itself as a platform where Filipino stories and Filipino talent can continue to develop. Its long-term vision includes becoming a leading destination for vertical Filipino dramas, expanding opportunities for student filmmakers and emerging storytellers, and bringing local productions to audiences in the Philippines and abroad.
