Is Kai Montinola singing the Filipino ‘How Far I’ll Go’ from live-action ‘Moana’?

Kai Montinola appears to be the mystery singer behind the Filipino version of “How Far I’ll Go” from Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of “Moana.”

Disney Philippines released a teaser on Instagram on Wednesday, July 1, which features a young woman performing the iconic Disney song while her face is hidden.

“The ocean called her. Let one singing gwapa take you beyond the reef-the special Filipino rendition of ‘How Far I’ll Go’ is sailing your way very, very soon,” read the caption.

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While the studio has yet to formally reveal the singer’s identity, fans quickly speculated that the voice belongs to Montinola, whose singing style and physical appearance closely match the preview released online.

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As of writing, Montinola is currently trending on X (formerly Twitter) because of the teaser.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Studios Philippines (@disneystudiosph)

Montinola first gained attention as a housemate on “Pinoy Big Brother: Gen 11” before expanding her career as a singer and actress under ABS-CBN. She released her debut album, “Kaileidoscope,” last year.

The young performer recently made headlines after she shared the stage with Regine Velasquez at the official launch of “ASAP XP.” In the videos that made the rounds online, Asia’s Songbird was captured being amazed at Montinola as she belted out the high notes.

Montinola also made acting appearances in the drama series “Saving Grace,” the anthology program “Maalaala Mo Kaya” and the independent film “Child No. 82.” She was later announced as part of the cast of the action-drama series “Roja,” starring Donny Pangilinan and Kyle Echarri.

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Meanwhile, prior to Montinola, in 2024, actress Belle Mariano was first tapped to sing the Filipino version of “Beyond, ” the official soundtrack of the second installment of the animated version, “Moana 2.”

“How Far I’ll Go,” originally performed by Auliʻi Cravalho for the 2016 animated film “Moana,” received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song.

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The live-action adaptation of “Moana,” starring Catherine Laga’aia, is set to sail in Philippine cinemas on July 8. /ra

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