Actor takes on responsibility as role model

MANILA, Philippines -- Coco Martin expressed his gratitude to the Kapamilya network for his string of successes in television and films, which have made him one of the most sought after leading men of his generation.

Coco Martin as Juan dela Cruz. File photo

"Nagpapasalamat talaga ako sa ABS-CBN sa break na binibigay sa 'kin at sa suporta na binibigay nila sa akin," the 31-year-old actor told ABS-CBN News at the sidelines of a trade event held Friday night for his TV series "Juan dela Cruz."

Martin first rose to fame in 2005 for his critically acclaimed roles in several independent films including "Masahista," "Tambolista" and "Serbis."

Crossing over to mainstream television, Martin portrayed supporting roles in a number of ABS-CBN series, and went on to become the lead star in the TV musical "1DOL" along with Sarah Geronimo in 2010. This was followed by two other Kapamilya series where Martin played lead -- "Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin (2011)" and "Walang Hanggan (2012)."

"Juan dela Cruz," which sees Martin as the everyman-superhero title character, premiered in February as part of ABS-CBN's "Primetime Bida" block. It is now the No. 1 most watched television program nationwide during weekdays.

At the Friday night showcase for the series' advertisers, a collection of merchandise built on the "Juan dela Cruz" brand was introduced -- among them an apparel line, tumblers, food containers, and replicas of the title character's weapons in the show.

Referring to the immense popularity of his character among the show's young viewers, Martin said, "Nakakatuwa kasi para sa akin kasi lahat naman nangangarap na maging superhero. Pero 'yung maging inspirasyon ka ng mga kabataan, tapos ngayon na nalalagay ka sa tumbler, may espada, excited 'yung mga bata."

"Nagkakaroon ako ng responsibility bilang tao at bilang artista. So lalo ko pagbubutihin ang aking trabaho at maging inspirasyon ako sa mga manonood," he said.

Aside from Juan dela Cruz being an inspiration figure, Martin credits the show's lighthearted tone in bringing joy to viewers. In a recent episode, the multi-awarded actor was seen as Juan serenading Rosario (Erich Gonzales).

"Sabi ko nga, ano eh, naisip ko, kahit minsan nahihiya ako, pero dahil part 'yun ng work ko at para may iba naman akong ipakita, [gagawin ko]. Tapos syempre pambata itong ginagawa ko. At least kahit paano maka-relate sila sa akin, matawa sila kahit paano," he said.

Admittedly a non-singer, Martin gave a hearty laugh to suggestions that he should come up with a full album.

"Hindi, ayoko mag-album," he said, laughing. "Hindi eh, wala talaga eh. Kumbaga, pakantahin niyo ako dahil gusto ko lang magpasaya. Pero karirin? Malabo!"

Directed by Malu Sevilla and Avel Sunpongco, "Juan dela Cruz" airs weeknights after ABS-CBN's flagship newscast "TV Patrol."