My connection with leading man and action superstar Ian Veneracion came to fruition thanks to his former manager, Ricky Gallardo. It was Gallardo who introduced me, and a couple of press colleagues Ricky Calderon (+) and Arnel Ramos (+) to Stephen Ian (actor’s real name) during an intimate dinner at the time he became “the Ian Veneracion.”

The leading man must have been impressed with our manner of interviews and the outcomes of our conversations because we got more exclusive Gallardo invitations and the brunches, late lunches, or early dinners went beyond the usual press briefing and chatter. During the catch-up time, stories were told, opinions shared, off-the-record tales kept sacred and what was always unforgettable was Veneracion’s curiosity about our personal lives and the manner he showed care and concern.

Eight years ago, when my golden natal day came, Ian sent me a video greeting shot in Los Angeles, with him promising “lunch or dinner soon,” a post-birthday celebration that was fulfilled.

Another recollection was his reaction to a feature story I sent: “Wow! I just saw it now! Maraming-maraming salamat! I always appreciate how comfortable I feel during our conversations. Usually, I am very reserved. Maybe because a part of me knows I am in good hands. And when the article comes out, it justifies that feeling. It’s very much appreciated, my friend. To you, my fluffy-haired Diana Ross like-friend, Alwin Ignacio, cheers!”

To be the receiver of this appreciation from an A-lister and stellar star like Ian Veneracion made me kilig and oh so very happy, and yes, I must be doing something good indeed as an entertainment writer.

Change as currency

One of the most important things Ian said: “You know what, Alwin, change is not only a constant thing for me, it is a currency. The state of my being gets its adrenaline kick and my creativity flourishes because of change.”  

Roles-wise, whether as a romantic or dramatic lead, or an action hero, the character must always have something unique to offer for it to pique his curiosity. Characters he deems too perfect immediately get the thumbs down. The flaws and darkness of a character’s intrigues end the path to his redemption and humanity offer him excitement and that special kind of rush.  

Aside from acting, the visual arts, music and even cooking fuel his artistry and creativity. Martial arts, motorcross racing, skydiving and paragliding are Ian’s other passionate pursuits.

Contractor

In the action drama Incognito, consistently in Netflix Philippines’ top 10 most-watched list, Veneracion portrays the Contractor. He said: “As everyone who watches the show, most are aware that I am the one who hires the other characters to go on dangerous missions. It is always thrilling to be in his shoes because he is cloaked in mystery.  He is not ‘what you see is what you get’ kind of man. Because of his mastery in being mysterious, mas lalo akong (I get more) excited and intrigued to discover his past, and what are the truths he holds sacred.”

Incognito is now in its mid-season and majority of its episodes were shot in Itogon, Benguet where the temperature was a scorcher; and in Yamagata, Japan where the cold, wind and snow bothered the cast but they braved it anyway.  

Veneracion’s cast mates include Kaila Estrada, Baron Geisler, Richard Gutierrez, Anthony Jennings, Maris Racal and Daniel Padilla.

And just like that

My last sit-down interview with Ian Veneracion happened during a press conference for an action series released on Prime Video. During the first media conference of Incognito, I was present, but the opportunity to chat with the actor did not materialize. After the question-and-answer segment of the conference, he was whisked out of the venue with the rest of the cast.

I thought there would be no opportunity to talk to him during the mid-season press shindig. A fellow writer and I were already outside the hotel lobby, the glass door behind us as we awaited our transport. Then a commotion from the onlookers occurred. Lo and behold, it was Ian about to step out.

I turned, our eyes met, he acknowledged my presence and walked to where I was standing, raising his arm and we exchanged high-fives. As his palm touched mine, he said: “Long time no see. The last time I saw you, Diana Ross hair ka pa. I like the change. Blonde suits you.”

A big smile plastered on my face, all I was able to say was: “Ian, can we have a picture together?”  He said: “Of course.”

And just like that, we were beside one another, his arms wrapped around my shoulders, and the moment captured for posterity by MB’s lovely miss Julee.

What was most clear: despite not having sat down for quite some time, the actor and I can always start where we left off, two old friends who meet again and share some wonderful chit-chat served swiftly and sincerely. Until next time. Mr. Veneracion, Ian Veneracion.

Incognito currently airs on Netflix Philippines in all Kapamilya online and free TV channels.