‘Lolong 2’ preparations underway

Preparations have begun for the Philippines’ biggest primetime action-adventure series of 2022, Lolong, with the artists playing major roles sharing their journeys thus far.

Led by Primetime Action Hero Ruru Madrid, the series is poised to significantly impact television as it returns to primetime with Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan.

Rochelle Pangilinan, who portrays Karina Marabe, struggled to hold back her tears as her beautiful long hair was cut short in preparation for her character in Lolong Season 2.

In an exclusive online video from GMA Network, Pangilinan became emotional as she watched her barber cut off her long hair during an on-the-spot haircut during the series’ publicity photoshoot.

As she cried while having her hair shaved, Pangilinan reflected on the significance of the moment for her as part of the show’s promotion.

“Si Karina dito ay nasa ibang level na, ibang dimension. So kailangan ko lang siyang sabayan (Karina is on another level, another dimension here. So, I just need to keep up with her),” Pangilinan said, emphasizing that this is a new experience for her.

In an Instagram post, the Kapuso actress revealed that “Karina 2.0” will return from the first season featuring the sides of her hair shaved, then styled with braids and a bun.

In the first season, Karina Marabe owned a tailoring shop that served as a central hub for various mysteries within the storyline, often revealing secrets and unexpected twists contributing to the show’s plot.

Set four years after the first season, Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan features the titular character Lolong, portrayed by Madrid, as a masked hero dedicated to maintaining peace in their small town.

In an Instagram post, Ruru Madrid shared a sneak peek of the upcoming action-filled season, showing a photo of a group of masked fighters and a video illustrating a physical altercation with Juancho Trivino, who portrays Abdul Casas. Madrid has been training in Filipino martial arts for his role.

New cast members have joined Pangilinan and Madrid in the series, including John Arcilla, who will portray the main antagonist, Julio Figueroa.

More cast members include Shaira Diaz, Paul Salas, Klea Pineda, Rocco Nacino and Mikoy Morales.

Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan will air on GMA on 20 January 2025.

Lolong, a crocodile-themed action-adventure drama, focuses on a man’s extraordinary friendship with a giant crocodile named Dakila. In Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan, viewers can expect Lolong to confront new challenges and unexpected twists after successfully uniting the people of Tumahan with the mysterious Atubaws.

With its inspiring storyline suitable for all ages, Lolong was the most-watched Philippine television series of 2022, receiving the title of “Best Primetime Serye” at the Gawad Pilipino Icon of the Year 2022 and the Philippines’ National Award for Best Visual/Special Effects at the 2022 Asian Academy Creative Awards.