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By JADE VERONIQUE YAP, GMA Integrated News
Published August 7, 2025 10:03am
Warning: This story contains mild spoilers.
Beyond its life lessons, standout performances, and nostalgic charm, "Freakier Friday" also offers a subtle touch of Filipino representation, making the film even more relatable to Pinoy audiences.
To begin with, the sequel’s leading man, Eric, is played by Filipino-Canadian rising star Manny Jacinto. Born to Filipino parents, Manny moved to Canada with his family at the age of three, and proudly represents his roots both on and off screen.
Instead of simply letting Manny play a vaguely Asian character, "Freakier Friday" actually straightforwardly references Philippine elements.
Manila mention
Eric is a chef who moved from London to Los Angeles to open his restaurant, and while little is known about his background, it is implied that his character, much like his real life actor, is of Filipino descent.
This is hinted at in a heartwarming scene where his parents meet Anna’s family over a wedding luncheon. His mother, speaking with a distinct Filipino accent, mentions their long flight from Manila to Los Angeles.
‘Mano po, Lola’
The loudest declaration of the family's Filipino roots is the "mano po" scene.
The traditional Filipino gesture of respect toward elders, where one takes the hand of an elder and gently presses it to their forehead while saying, “Mano po,” was included in a scene where Tess (Jamie Lee Curtis), inhabited by Eric’s teenage daughter Lily (Sophia Hammons), respectfully greets her grandparents with a heartfelt “Mano po, Lola,” accompanied by a subtle bow.
A sequel to the 2003 cult classic “Freaky Friday,” the film also stars Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis. It is now showing in Philippine cinemas nationwide.
On its premiere night, Manny made a stop in Manila and spoke with fans and the press.
“It feels like a dream. Honestly, I never would have thought that I'd be, you know, I was born here [Philippines] so like a local boy that gets to act opposite Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis is wild to me,” Manny said. —JCB, GMA Integrated News
