Ruru Madrid on the pressure of meeting high expectations for Lolong’s comeback

‘Lolong‘, the most-watched TV series of 2022, is making its highly anticipated return as Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan premieres on January 20, airing on GMA Primetime.

During a press conference held at the Quantum Skyview Upper B Level of Gateway 2 in Quezon City, the full cast was introduced, including both returning stars and fresh faces who will be joining the story.

Fresh from winning the MMFF 2024 Best Supporting Actor award for Green Bones, the series’ lead star, Ruru Madrid, shared his thoughts on playing the titular role of Lolong.

He said, “Ang pinaka-natutunan ko dito, hindi lang sa pagiging isang aktor na gumaganap bilang si Lolong, kundi bilang isang tao, ang pinaka-natutunan ko [ay] hindi mo kailangan magkaroon ng superpowers para maging isa kang bayani.

“Kumbaga, as long as nakakatulong ka sa iyong kapwa, sa inyong pamilya, nakakapagbigay ka ng inspirasyon sa maraming mga tao, bayani ka na. ‘Yon, I guess yung dadalhin ko habambuhay sa paggawa nitong programming ‘to,” he added.

Ruru Madrid also discussed the pressure of meeting the high expectations for such a major show, especially after the success of its first part.

He remarked, “Siguro yung pressure kasi, I guess hindi naman yun mawawala in every project na gagawin natin. For me, yun yung gusto kong laging pakiramdam. Hindi pressure sa kung ano man, sa kompitisyon, o kung sa ano man, kumbaga pressure na makagawa ka ng isang programang tatatak sa puso ng sambayanang Pilipino.

“Siguro yun yung lagi kong gustong pakiramdam dahil ayoko rin ng makakampante ka na parang hindi mo na pag-iigihan yung mga ginagawa mo. So dapat laging kasama yun sa bawat proyektong gagawin natin,” he continued.

Ruru Madrid expressed his deep gratitude and admiration for his longtime girlfriend, Bianca Umali, acknowledging the significant support she has given him and how she has positively impacted his life.

He said, “Sabi ko nga, hindi na ako makakahanap ng gano’ng klaseng tao. Yung suporta na binibigay niya [Bianca Umali] sa akin ngayon – simula noon actually. Sabi ko, si Bianca yung nagpabago sa buhay ko talaga. Kasi feeling ko, kung hindi dumating si Bianca sa buhay ko, hindi ko makakamit ‘tong mga pangarap na ‘to.”

This big comeback promises to bring thrilling action sequences and compelling drama. Fans can look forward to the return of beloved characters, including Shaira Diaz, Rochelle Pangilinan, Paul Salas, Mikoy Morales, Alma Concepcion, Maui Taylor, and Ms. Jean Garcia.

Joining Ruru in this exciting new chapter are new cast members, including John Arcilla, Rocco Nacino, Martin del Rosario, Klea Pineda, and Ms. Tetchie Agbayani.

The show’s powerhouse ensemble includes Victor Neri, Nonie Buencamino, Rodjun Cruz, Pancho Magno, Michelle Dee, Nikki Valdez, Bernadette Allyson, Boom Labrusca, Jan Marini, Gerard Pizarras, Archi Adamos, Nicco Manalo, Nikko Natividad, John Clifford, Waynona Collings, Rubi Rubi, Inah Evans, Barbiengot Forteza, Joe Vargas, Karenina Haniel, Leo Martinez, and child stars Ryrie Sophia and Drei Lampago.

A crocodile-themed action-adventure drama series, Lolong centers on a man’s extraordinary friendship with a giant crocodile named Dakila. In Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan, viewers can look forward to Lolong’s journey as he faces new challenges and unexpected twists after successfully uniting the people of Tumahan with the mysterious Atubaws.

Co-directing Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan are King Mark Baco and Rommel Penesa, whose combined talents bring a more cinematic feel to this season’s offering.

Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan is part of GMA Public Affairs’ ambitious lineup of programming for GMA Network’s 75th anniversary celebration.

Catch Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan weeknights after 24 Oras on GMA Primetime, starting January 20. Global Pinoys can also watch the program via GMA Pinoy TV.