A composite photo of Ogie Diaz, Mama Loi and the poster of How to Get Away from My Toxic Family. EXPAT MEDIA/ARCHIVE

Popular talent manager and producer Ogie Diaz is heading to the UAE this month, bringing with him the stars of Filipino social media—Mama Loi and Tita Jegz—for the Middle East premiere of the much-talked-about film How to Get Away from My Toxic Family. The movie will premiere on July 26 at Star Cinema, Al Ghurair Mall in Dubai, and on July 27 at Star Cinema, Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi, with both events starting at 6pm. Each screening will include a meet-and-greet with Diaz and his entourage. Tickets are available starting from Dh125 through +971542991588 or mktg@srkeducationgroupinternational.com. Originally scheduled last month, the UAE premiere was postponed due to regional travel concerns following the Iran-Israel conflict. Ogie has since confirmed that it’s all systems go for the Dubai and Abu Dhabi screenings.

A story that mirrors OFW realities

Written by John Bedia and directed by award-winning filmmaker Lawrence Fajardo, How to Get Away from My Toxic Family tells the story of Arsenio (Zanjoe Marudo), a man torn between familial obligation and his own mental well-being. Set against the gritty backdrop of Tondo, Manila and the terminal chaos of Clark International Airport, the film charts Arsenio’s emotional struggle as he decides whether to continue sacrificing himself for a family that keeps dragging him down. It’s a theme that resonates deeply with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who often face guilt, manipulation, and emotional baggage from families back home. “OFWs can relate to it—even balikbayans. Even when they’re abroad, they still think of their families in the Philippines,” said actor Zanjoe Marudo, who returns to the big screen after a two-year break. “The film urges viewers to set boundaries, even if family is involved,” he added. For Ogie, the message hits especially close to home. “If you can’t take it anymore, it’s time to leave,” he emphasized. “If it’s not helpful to your mental health, it’s time to let go to take care of ourselves.” The movie, which had its world premiere in Los Angeles in May, has been steadily making its way across the globe with screenings in Western Australia, Japan, Houston, San Diego, and San Francisco. Its Philippine premiere is set for July 30. The ensemble cast includes acting veterans Susan Africa, Richard Quan, and Nonie Buencamino in a special appearance, as well as fresh talents Kim Rodriguez, Lesley Lina, Keena Pineda, and Juharra Asayo. Beyond the comedic moments and intense family drama, the film is a cultural mirror—a bold take on the burdens of generational trauma that many Filipinos, especially OFWs, carry silently. CAM/Expat Media
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