Actor Kiko Estrada turned emotional during the finale press conference of the primetime action series Totoy Bato after receiving praise from director Albert Langitan, who affirmed his growth as an actor.
Langitan told Estrada that he is no longer “hamonado” but a capable performer—words that deeply moved the actor, who embraced the director and was seen tearing up during the event.
Estrada earlier admitted that he initially struggled with emotional scenes in his first action series, ‘Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa’, noting that he was raised speaking mostly English. However, he showed noticeable improvement in ‘Totoy Bato’, where he took on a more demanding and emotionally layered role.
“It’s a huge honor, a blessing. I never would have made it this far if not for the help of those who believed in me, and I’m forever grateful for their guidance and tutelage,” Estrada said.
Reflecting on his growth, he added, “Actually, kung dati medyo nangangapa ako sa ‘Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa,’ I think I could say na with this one, mas may confidence, mas may angas na yung atake namin ng team. And I’m proud of that.”
As the series approaches its finale on April 24, viewers can expect intense confrontations and major revelations following the death of Don Silvio Castillo, portrayed by Mon Confiado. Power struggles escalate as Dwayne Perez, played by Diego Loyzaga, tightens his grip on the Castillo family, setting the stage for a climactic showdown with Estrada’s character, Totoy.
Estrada also acknowledged the physical demands of the role, sharing that injuries were part of the process.
“All my co-actors are giving their all for the project, so why shouldn’t I? Nakakahiya naman kung ganun. Even if I go home with bruises, okay lang because we want to give viewers the entertainment they deserve,” he said.
He credited Langitan and the production team for pushing the cast to deliver their best performances.
“It’s a huge blessing that I’m surrounded by a team that is as passionate about this project as I am. Credit goes to our director Albert Langitan and the rest of the production team for guiding us all magnificently,” he added.
Estrada also praised his co-stars, particularly Loyzaga, for elevating the intensity of their scenes.
“Bilib ako sa buong cast, grabe. Hindi mabubuo ang ganitong klaseng proyekto if not for their dedication to their craft. I salute them. Lalo na si Diego who really brought out the best in me pagdating sa fight scenes,” he said.
The series also features a powerhouse cast including Eula Valdes, Claudine Barretto, Cindy Miranda, Mark Anthony Fernandez, Gold Aceron, Billy Villeta, Andrew Muhlach, Christine Bermas, and Angelica Hart.
Meanwhile, Guido R. Zaballero, president of TV5, lauded the show’s success.
“The success of Totoy Bato is a testament to the incredible passion of the production team and the stellar performances of the entire cast. We thank everyone who poured their hearts out to bring this story to life. It was their dedication that turned every episode into a memorable journey that we all shared with the audience,” he said.
‘Totoy Bato’ airs weeknights at 8:00 p.m. on TV5’s TodoMax Primetime Singko, with simulcast on ONE PH, and is also available for streaming via the Cignal Play app.
