Maris Racal Joins “Batang Quiapo” — Coco Martin Explains His Surprising Reason
COCO MARTIN – Kapamilya actor-director Coco Martin has opened up about the real reason he chose Maris Racal to join the powerhouse cast of “Batang Quiapo,” and fans can’t stop talking about it.
Coco Martin has finally revealed the reason behind his decision to cast Maris Racal as one of the newest characters in the hit primetime series “Batang Quiapo.”
In an exclusive interview with CCM Productions, the show’s lead star opened up about personally handpicking Maris for the role. According to the actress, she was completely surprised when Coco himself requested a meeting to discuss her character in the series.
Coco, who is known for his meticulous approach in choosing his cast, selected the Sunshine star to portray Ponggay Garcia, a police officer in the long-running action-drama. The actor-director shared that he immediately recognized Maris’s potential and admired how she gives depth and uniqueness to every role she plays.
Maris revealed that everything had happened so suddenly. After finishing her project Incognito and promoting Sunshine, she was immediately offered a spot in Batang Quiapo, leaving her with almost no time to rest.
Coco admitted that he and his team worked hard to secure Maris for the show. “Honestly, hinabol ka talaga namin kasi nga kinakabahan kami na after mo sa ‘Incognito,’ alam namin na may sasalo agad. Hindi naman lahat talaga ng babae nakakapag-action, bibihira lang,” he said.
The multi-awarded actor also expressed excitement about her addition to the cast, believing that she will bring a fresh and vibrant energy to the beloved series. “Ang lakas ni Maris sa tao. Parang ang sarap niya makatrabaho kasi ‘pag pinapanood mo si Maris, nakangiti lang kami,” Coco shared.
He further praised her natural charisma and versatility, saying, “Kasi si Maris, ilagay mo lang sa ganyan, kaya na niyang patakbuhin ’yan, kaya niyang magdala.”
As for Maris, she promised to give her all for the role and make the most of the opportunity. “Hindi ko sasayangin ang opportunity na ’to. Ibibigay ko ’yung buong puso ko,” she said, showing gratitude and determination to prove herself in the acclaimed teleserye.
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