Thursday, January 15, 2009 ABS-CBN bares cast of 'Marcelino'
ABS-CBN formally presented the cast of the forthcoming TV series "Marcelino," an adaptation of hit foreign film "Marcelino Pan Y Vino."
First in the list is Zaijan Jaramilla, a seven-year-old kid who will play the role of Marcelino, an orphan who can perform miracles and talk to the Lord.
"Masaya po ako nakuha ako na Marcelino," said Zaijan, who is known as young Tiny Tony (John Pratts) and Vhong Navarro in "Betty La Fea," during the soap's cast pictorial.
Also part of the powerhouse cast is Dina Bonnivie, who will play as the wife of a corrupt mayor to be portrayed by Albert Martinez. Dina said that she is ever thankful to ABS-CBN for giving her projects, which are "tailor-made" for her.
"I almost did not want to do soap because I am busy. But you know I did a lot of great soaps in this TV station (ABS-CBN) and I am happy that they are giving me roles perfect for my character and could always leave mark to viewers," she said.
This soap will also bring back the team-up of Maja Salvador and Rayver Cruz. The two are both excited to work in one project again.
"It's always fun to work with Rayver. 'Makulit pa rin'," said Maja, who will play the role of the mayor's daughter.
Rayver is a destitute thief in the series. "'Makulit din siya e. I am excited and happy to work with her again after a long time," he said of Maja.
Other members of the cast are: Tonton Gutierrez, who will play as Precious Lara Quigaman's husband (they are both law enforcers); Dominic Ochoa, Lito Pimentel, and Jaime Fabregas (three priests who will adopt Marcelino); Desiree del Valle (prostitute); Victor Basa, Ruben Gonzaga, and David Chua (priests); and Ogie Diaz and Arlene Muhlach (rumor mongers).
Coming up for an inspirational TV series like this is like public duty for ABS-CBN. Marcelino's production manager Ethel Espiritu hoped that they would inspire Filipinos not to lose hope especially in times of global recession.
"This adaptation is set on the present time. What is happening in our country and in the world. This is very timely because in this year of uncertainties ABS-CBN would want to give hope to all of us and impart to people to always have faith in Him," Ethel said.
"Marcelino" will conquer Primetime Bida on February 9. (Jill Beltran/Sunnex)
