Director Joel Lamangan’s exceptional acting in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ has drawn widespread acclaim, despite his character’s challenging role as Roda, a snobbish and money-minded individual.
Roda is one of the most anticipated characters in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,’ and when he was initially stabbed in a theft scene, many believed his character was dead. This led Director Joel to assume he was no longer part of the TV series starring Coco Martin.
However, during a recent interview with Ogie Diaz on YouTube, the director shared the story of how Coco Martin convinced him to take on the role of Roda.
“Kinuha ako ni Coco inimbita niya ako sa premiere night nito (Batang Quiapo) pagkakita niya sa akin sabi niya, ‘direk kukunin kita ha?’ Sabi ko naman, ‘O sige gusto ko!” Director Joel recalled.
At this point, he assumed his role in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ would be brief because of a scene where his character gets stabbed. “Okay lang kasi mayroon naman akong ginagawang pelikula.”
However, Director Joel received a pleasant surprise. He explained, “Naku, natawag sila (Coco) sa MTRCB kasi ang dami-daming saksak sa akin (tawanan sila ni Ogie). Akala ko patay na ako, pagkatapos ng isang linggo habang nagdi-direk ako bigla akong nagkaroon ng call (BQ staff), ‘ha ‘di ba patay na ako?’ Sagot daw ng staff, “hindi sa ospital ka magigising ka, buhay ka kaya nagtuluy-tuloy na ako.”
The director and Coco had developed a close relationship due to Coco’s brother, Ronwaldo Martin, who plays Santino in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo.’
“Naging artista ko siya sa Bhoy Intsik siya ang lead role at mahusay naman nagka-award pa nagustuhan ako ni Coco at sabi nga kukunin akong artista (BQ),“ Director Joel said.
Ogie complimented Director Joel’s memory and resilience, given his age and three heart surgeries. When asked if he could still remember his lines, Director Joel responded quickly, “Ay oo!”
He further shared, “Apat na beses na akong inatake (sa puso) hindi pa rin ako kinukuha ng Panginoon, nandito pa rin ako sa tabi mo (nagkatawanan sila ni Ogie).”
For Director Joel, the key is to use one’s life wisely, as it is short, and one never knows when they’ll be tested. He emphasized the importance of leaving good memories with loved ones and those you care about before your time is up.
As a director, he doesn’t interfere with ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,’ as he’s an actor in the show. He believes in respecting the director’s authority and expects the same in return when he directs a film or program.
Director Joel is known for his fiery temper and is unafraid to raise his voice. Ogie humorously shared a story about how he was close to leaving during their first meeting because he was scared. However, he has mellowed over time.
He explained, “Nagagalit lang ako sa mga syunga-syungang umarte at lalo na ‘yung mga nali-late na tatlong oras kang maghihintay talagang galit nag alit ako talagang sinusugod ko (tent).”
Ogie expressed surprise upon hearing about actors who took so long even for their eyebrows. He jokingly cautioned Director Joel not to mention any names. The director’s point is that he doesn’t like waiting because every additional hour beyond the schedule means additional expenses for the producer. He explained that shooting or taping is limited to 14 hours, and being late incurs additional costs.
He shared that he enjoys his role in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,’ even though the location is quite hot. He mentioned that he no longer leaves the house, and the children used to greet him with “Direk, good morning!” But now, they call him “Roda” and he is the only antagonist who is loved by everyone. The kids explained that they love him for it.
Roda’s lines are scripted, but some parts are ad-libbed. His cut-off time is limited until midnight, as he is not allowed to be on set late due to his condition. Roda has undergone three heart surgeries.
