The controversy surrounding Rod Navarro Jr.’s viral accusations against Coco Martin has taken another turn after a member of the ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ production team released a detailed timeline disputing the actor’s claims.
On Wednesday, February 18, Eila Garcia, a production staff member of the series, shared on social media a chronological account of events involving Navarro and Martin — from Navarro’s alleged plea for help to the eventual business assistance that went unclaimed.
According to Garcia, Navarro first approached Martin for help on August 28, 2024. Despite not personally knowing him, Martin reportedly gave Navarro a role in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’, where he became one of the aides of the character Olga, portrayed by Irma Adlawan. Navarro’s stint on the show began on October 11, 2024.
His character arc concluded on January 6 of the following year, after which he and Martin crossed paths again for a fight scene appearance.
Garcia further disclosed that on July 17, a meeting was arranged between Martin’s camp, Navarro, and actress Janice Jurado to extend additional assistance. Beginning July 18, Garcia said Martin personally checked on Navarro and offered him alternative opportunities — including work as a marshal on set and a P100,000 capital for a potential business venture, provided he submitted a concrete business plan.
On July 21, Navarro allegedly cited health issues and concerns about prematurely spending the money as reasons for not committing to the marshal position. By July 26, with no business plan submitted, Martin reportedly instructed Garcia to release the financial assistance regardless.
However, months passed without Navarro claiming the money. The production camp allegedly followed up multiple times but received no response.
On January 30, Navarro reportedly messaged again, saying he would now accept the financial help. By then, the money had already been returned to Martin due to what the team interpreted as lack of interest. On February 16 — the same day Navarro published his viral post — he allegedly withdrew his acceptance of the assistance.
Garcia questioned Navarro’s motives, expressing disappointment over what she described as attempts to damage Martin’s reputation despite the opportunities extended to him.
She emphasized that the production operates professionally and does not trample on anyone’s livelihood, adding that conflicts should be handled fairly.
Prior to Garcia’s statement, talent manager Ogie Diaz had already spoken out on social media, presenting screenshots of Navarro’s earlier messages expressing gratitude toward Martin and requesting an interview to publicly thank him.
Navarro initially drew backlash after reposting an old interview of Martin, where the actor-director spoke about someone he stopped helping due to a lack of direction in life. Although no names were mentioned, Navarro claimed the statement referred to him and alleged mistreatment during his time on the series.
Martin has remained silent amid the controversy. Meanwhile, several former and current collaborators have publicly posted their gratitude to the actor, reinforcing his long-standing reputation for generosity within the industry.
As of writing, Navarro has yet to issue a new statement addressing the timeline shared by the production staff.
