Former “Goin Bulilit” star Harvey Bautista and ex-“PBB” housemate Criza clinched the lead roles of ABS-CBN Studios’ new youth-reality series “Zoomers” starting Monday (January 22) after undergoing a rigorous audition process and impressing three distinguished directors.

Harvey and Criza were selected among 18 Gen Z artists by ABS-CBN Star Magic and TV production head Laurenti Dyogi, blockbuster film director Theodore Boborol, and “He’s Into Her” director Chad Vidanes.

Joining them are former “YeY ” star Luke Alford, commercial model Ralph de Leon, and dancer Krystl Ball, who also showed potential and charm to be part of the latest ABS-CBN Studios offering.

The newest Kapamilya series revolves around the lives of senior high students Jiggs (Harvey), Hope (Criza), Kokoy (Luke), Tania (Krystl), and Atom (Ralph), who have forged a special bond of friendship during the pandemic. As they find their footing in this post-pandemic reality, witness how their friendship will be tested as they will be challenged by their own pains, struggles, and dreams.

Former child star Harvey opened up about how important the series is to him. “Big deal ito para sa akin. Ito yung first project ko with a partner. May kaba konti and excitement. It is something that I’ve been waiting for, and it is something that I’m thankful for. I want to make them proud. I want to make the bosses proud,” he said.

Criza, who was a part of hit series “Kadenang Ginto” and “He’s Into Her,” is honored to play one of the main characters in the series. “Ito yung first bida role ko under Star Magic at ABS-CBN yung may hawak. Tumatak sa akin na I’m so grateful and thankful na pinagkatiwalaan nila ako sa ganitong role. Ang number 1 na mapapangako ko is ibibigay ko yung 199% sa character ko. Isasabuhay ko si Hope,” she said.

Likewise, Luke, Ralph, and Krystl expressed their gratefulness for the opportunity to be part of a series tackling relevant social issues faced by their generation.

“Zoomers” is directed by Chad Vidanes and is written by Charisse Bayona and Michael Transfiguracion. Also part of “Zoomers” are Luis Vera Perez, Kei Kurosawa, Erika Davis, Hadiyah Santos, and Zabel Lamberth.