Versatile actor and heartthrob Piolo Pascual is at the peak of his career, with projects coming at him from all angles. From concerts and tours to television, film, and the stage, Piolo is showing no signs of slowing down.
Just last Friday, the multi-hyphenate treated fans to a sensational concert experience at the Newport World Resorts for “An Ultimate Night with Piolo.”
He also just came from a US tour, where he regaled Pinoys abroad with his musical talent.
At a press conference at Kao Manila last Thursday, Piolo also revealed he will soon be back recording for a “Duets” album. On top of his musical endeavors, he is a constant presence on the small and silver screens. He starred in the hit Filipino adaptation of “Flower of Evil” with Lovi Poe and will soon be seen in a new series for 2024. In December, he plays three characters in the dark and creepy “Mallari,” written by Joaquin Enrico Santos and directed by Derick Cabrido for Mentorque Productions and Cleverminds.
The horror film, set to be one of the most anticipated in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) that starts on Christmas Day 2023, has generated significant buzz as it delves into the life of the country’s first serial killer, Father Severino Mallari. The film’s producer, John Bryan Diamante, spared no expense in ensuring the production design and captivating storytelling that the project deserves.
Diamante has nothing but praise for Piolo, who is taking on three distinct roles in his first horror movie of his decades-long career. According to Bryan, Pascual’s dedication to the craft is remarkable. Piolo was not afraid to roll up his sleeves, even going as far as using a big blue jug of water for a makeshift shower between takes. He also extended his working hours to ensure every scene is perfect, even after his designated cutoff time. Diamante expressed his satisfaction of Piolo’s performance not only before the screen but also behind it.
“Yes, sobra. He’s not just conscious of how he will deliver. But he is also conscious of working with every one on the set. Alam nya yung halaga ng oras. May isa akong kwento dun. Syempre Piolo Pascual ‘yun e magpapalit sya ng character. Ang dumi dumi nya sa isang eksena na pinanggalingan nay. Kumuha siya ng blue na tubig. Naglinis dun sa isang tabi tapos nag topless lang bigly. Alam mo na dun sya worth it. Talagang hindi niya sasayangin oras nyo. Alam mo Piolo Pascual, VIP, pero walang ganun sa kanya,” said Diamante.
The young producer added he would gladly work with Piolo again, not just as actor-producer but maybe co-produce with him in the future.
And it is not far off as Piolo shows no signs of slowing down – whether before or behind the cameras. This has made people very curious where he gets his strength and inspiration. The actor said it is all God’s grace that he continues to be busy, but as to his personal life, the 46-year-old still looks forward to having his own family – but not right now. “I guess in time. Siguro kapag tuli na ako. Now kasi bata pa ako,” he joked, deflecting inquiries about his dating life.
Piolo said he is busy with work and being the dad of Iñigo, 26. He is content waiting for the right girl that God intends for him. He’s grateful for the opportunity to be part of “Mallari” and to make a special appearance in another MMFF entry, “Gomburza,” directed by Pepe Diokno.
When asked about what other role he wishes to play, Pascual revealed a deep interest in portraying the late President Ferdinand Marcos.
“I was born in 1977. But I was already alive during the EDSA revolution, naririnig ko ‘yung mga Tora-Tora. My mom worked for the government for almost 20 years. So I grew up during Marcos time so ‘yun lang. Nagawa ko ‘yung Ninoy Aquino sa MMK but really, I find that person interesting,”
He acknowledged the possibility of such a role. “Siguro in three years, kapag may edad na ako. Thirty pa lang kasi ako ngayon,” he said with a laugh.
