Coco Martin is all about keeping it tunay na Pinoy.
The FPJ’s Batang Quiapo star made it clear: he’s not interested in doing remakes of Korean dramas or movies. Instead, he wants to focus on telling original Filipino stories—those that reflect our culture, struggles, and heart.
Photo: Coco Martin/Instagram
During a recent press event on October 14, 2025, Coco joined forces with award-winning director Erik Matti and producer Dondon Monteverde of Reality Films to announce two upcoming projects: On The Job: Maghari and May Pag-asa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio. Both films will star Coco and be directed by Erik.
“Kung gagawa ako ng proyekto, gusto ko ‘yung gawang atin, ‘yung original. Napakarami nating kwento at napakaganda ng kultura ng Pilipino,” Coco shared.
He also talked about his journey from indie films to becoming one of the country’s most bankable stars.
“Naranasan kong magutom. ‘Yung nagsisimula pa lang ako, minsan meron kang project, minsan wala. Pero tiniis ko ‘yon. Pinagsumikapan ko para makarating sa kung nasaan ako ngayon,” he said.
Now that he’s in a position to help others, Coco says he uses his platform to give opportunities to new and veteran actors alike, especially those who haven’t been visible on screen lately.
“‘Yung mga bagong artista, binibigyan ko ng chance. Baka sakaling sa mga soap opera o pelikula ko, makuha nila ‘yung break na makapag-dire-diretso sa trabaho,” he added.
For Coco, working with Erik and Dondon is a shared mission to uplift the local film industry and create movies that Filipinos can proudly share with the world.
“Buhay natin ang pelikulang Pilipino,” he said. “Kapag gumawa tayo, siguraduhin natin na maipagmamalaki ito kahit saan tayo pumunta.”
With On The Job: Maghari and May Pag-asa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio in the pipeline, it’s safe to say that Coco Martin is helping redefine what Pinoy cinema can be by championing originality, uplifting fellow artists, and proving that our own culture and narratives can proudly stand out on the world stage.
ALSO READ: Julia Montes Shares How She Confronted a Girl Allegedly Flirting With Coco Martin
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