Balikbayan Magic

Open Swim Director Marc André Debruyne returns with another chapter of Coca-Cola’s award-winning holiday campaign, taking audiences around the world in a heartfelt continuation of last year's celebrated “Balikbayan Magic.” Building on a story that earned a Silver Lion at the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, the new film expands the campaign’s global footprint and celebrates the universal spirit of togetherness during the holiday season.

“Throughout my career, being half Filipino and half French has opened a door to many incredible adventures of filming not only all over Asia and Europe, but also throughout the world. With each humbling experience, one quickly realizes just how small they are in the large world we live in,” shares Director Marc André Debruyne. “I’ve learned that a hurricane, floods, and YES, even a volcano are normal weather days, and this job was no different as we navigated a typhoon. Every single one of my international experiences has changed the way I look through a lens. With the very many remarkable stories I have, this campaign for Coca-Cola has brought an incredible full circle moment to my career, and I’m so grateful for this perfect way to end the year.”

“I’ve worked with Marc André for years, and he’s pretty unflappable,” notes Open Swim Executive Producer Amyliz Pera. “Even with dengue fever or whatever else he’s navigating abroad, the footage is always lovely. When a typhoon nudged this one, I had to laugh. Despite the challenges, Marc André approaches his work with a lot of grace and sensitivity. It’s a vital time for global connection, and this type of work is so important.”