JC de Vera especially lauds the work ethics of the veteran actors on ‘Valiente’

MANILA, Philippines – After playing tough guy Ben Maningding in the TV adaptation of “Ang Utol Kong Hoodlum,” TV5’s prized actor JC de Vera will breathe life anew into another popular character, Gardo Valiente in the looming comeback of “Valiente.”

Recall that the soap opera ran for five years on two major networks in the ‘90s, making it the most successful drama series on Philippine TV.

Despite its built-in following, JC said that the show’s reincarnation is not just a repeat.

“New generation na kaya iba ang magiging treatment sa bawat character,” he said in an interview held at Hacienda Leviste in Lipa, Batangas City where many of the key scenes in the new “Valiente” were shot.

Interestingly, JC’s role on “Valiente” was first portrayed by Michael de Mesa who now plays a different character in the series.

Did that intimidate him?

“Hindi, more of na-starstruck ako sa kanya. First time pa lang namin nagkatrabaho at magaling talaga siyang artista at director.

“Minsan nagbibigay pa siya ng suggestions kung pano gagawin ang isang eksena so nakaktulong sa akin yon. At syempre, nadadala din ako sa kanya pag kami ang magka-eksena kasi sobrang husay talaga niya.”

Aside from Michael, “Valiente” also boasts of casting respected actors Mark Gil, Gina Alajar, and Jaclyn Jose and of being directed by no less than Joel Lamangan. In the company of such greats, JC realized that one of the reasons they achieved what they did and stayed in the business for as long as they have is due to unimpeachable work ethics.  

“Hindi sila mabigat katrabaho at lalong hindi nagpapa-star. Itrinato nila na pantay kaming mga baguhan sa kanila kahit na nga andami na nilang napatunayan. Lahat ng involved dito sa show ay very professional kaya maganda ang kinalabasan ng team effort namin,” JC said.

According to a release, viewers will witness in “Valiente” how the friendship of Theo Braganza (Oyo Sotto) and Gardo Valiente is torn by the vicious schemes of Theo’s ruthless mother, Doña Trining Braganza (Jaclyn Jose). Doña Trining manipulates the Braganza family and their business empire which resulted to labor and land disputes. The rivalry that follows between the two families is further sparked by the relationship of Gardo with Maila Braganza (Nadine Samonte). Theo and Maila’s cunning sister Leona (Niña Jose) will do everything to get in the way of this relationship in her desire to have Gardo for herself.

Alos in the cast are John Regala (Peping), Jim Pebanco (Ariston), Toni Mabesa (Victorino Penitente), Ross Pesigan (young Gardo), Liane Valentino (young Maila), Czarina Suzara (young Leona), and Arvic Tan (young Theo).

Many who grew up watching “Valiente,” will be delighted to know that the theme song of the new version is still performed by Vic Sotto.

“Valiente will premiere on TV5 on Feb. 13.