Zephanie to perform ‘Aking Hiling’ for PH release of Disney’s ‘Wish’

“THIS Generation’s Pop Princess” Zephanie is set to perform another Disney song.

Walt Disney Studios announced on Sunday that it tapped the 20-year-old singer to perform “Aking Hiling” for the Philippine release of Disney’s “Wish” on November 22.

“This star is ready to inspire! Stay tuned for ‘Aking Hiling’ as performed by Zephanie for the Philippine release of Disney’s ‘Wish,’” it said.

Cornerstone Entertainment, Zephanie’s talent agency, also shared the good news on its Facebook page and congratulated its artist.

“We are so proud of our very own Zephanie for being chosen to sing ‘Aking Hiling’! We can’t wait to hear the magical rendition!” it said.

Walt Disney Studios first hinted at the “Aking Hiling” singer on November 10, sharing a poster of a silhouette of a girl with curly hair. 

“Aking Hiling” is dropping down from the starry skies soon,” it said, along with a sparkle emoji.

Some netizens tried to adjust the brightness of the poster and were quick to guess that it was the “Idol Philippines” season one grand winner.

Prior to this, the actress-singer shared several photos of her at a recording studio on Instagram. Zephanie did not disclose what project she was working on and only put a purple heart and sparkle emojis in the caption.

She also posted an Instagram story on Saturday, featuring a standee of Asha from “Wish.”

The forthcoming animated musical film centers on a 17-year-old sharp-witted idealist named Asha who wishes on a star to save her kingdom named Rosas, after learning that most of its citizens’ wishes will not be granted. Her wish to help other people is answered by a cosmic force called Star.

Asha and Star will join forces together to confront the ruler of Rosas, King Magnifico, who keeps hundreds of wishes of Rosas’ citizens.

The 17-year-old will be voiced by American actress Ariana DeBose, while actor Chris Pine will lend his voice for King Magnifico.

Other Disney renditions

Zephanie previously earned praise for her own rendition of “When You Wish Upon A Star” from another Disney film, “Pinocchio.”

The 20-year-old singer performed the song during the launch of the streaming app Disney+ in the country in 2022.

She also performed a Disney medley during her Grand Fans Day in 2020, singing “Part of Your World” from “The Little Mermaid,” “For the First Time in Forever” from “Frozen,” “Reflection” from “Mulan,” and “How Far I’ll Go” from “Moana.”

Zephanie currently plays the role of Sue in GMA Network’s youth-oriented anthology series “Sparkle U.”