VIVA Films has officially brought Kapamilya actress Jodi Sta. Maria on board for its upcoming 2026 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry, “2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7.”
The studio announced her casting on Thursday, September 10, through a teaser video shared across its official social media channels. Sta. Maria is set to play the mother of Yesha, the character originally introduced by child star Xia Vigor.
The project functions as both a prequel and a sequel to the hit 2019 Philippine adaptation, drawing inspiration from the Indonesian version of the beloved South Korean drama.
Screenwriter Mel Mendoza-del Rosario outlined the narrative structure in a prior interview with entertainment website Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP).
“Sa maikling salita, prequel ang bulk at konti ang sequel,” Mendoza-del Rosario shared.
“It was supposed to be an adaptation of the sequel ng Miracle Indonesia version, pero hindi naman puwedeng hindi bida si Aga So, ginawa kong prequel,” she added.
VIVA Films is slated to host a media conference prior to the film’s release to unveil the full ensemble. The event is expected to confirm whether original cast members JC Santos, Joel Torre, Jojit Lorenzo, and Mon Confiado will return, alongside introducing the new young actress taking over the role of Yesha.
Aga Muhlach headlines the project alongside Sta. Maria. “2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7” is scheduled to hit cinemas on December 25.