The brotherhood behind 'Mga Batang Riles': Cast reflects on shared bond

As GMA’s action-drama Mga Batang Riles nears its finale, attention turns to the close bond formed by its young cast members: Miguel Tanfelix, Kokoy de Santos, Raheel Bhyria, Anton Vinzon, and Bruce Roeland. Over the course of the production, the five actors developed a genuine friendship that extended well beyond the set.

Before the intense scenes and action sequences, there were shared meals, long conversations, and plenty of laughs. In an interview on Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, Kokoy de Santos described their off-cam friendship: “Hindi mo kami mapaghiwalay,” he said. “After the action scenes, even when someone was packed up, maghihintay pa rin ‘yan. Ganun kami ka-solid.”

Their chemistry was briefly disrupted — humorously — when Jillian Ward joined the cast. Kokoy joked that Raheel’s attention shifted, teasing, “Dumating si Jillian… etsapuwera kami!” Raheel responded that he was simply making the new cast member feel welcome.

The exchange revealed not just camaraderie but mutual respect, showcasing a group dynamic built on trust, support, and shared experiences.

Miguel Tanfelix sets the tone

Playing Kidlat, the lead character, Miguel Tanfelix also emerged as a natural leader among the cast. Kokoy described him as “disiplinado” and someone who made the team feel united. Raheel highlighted Miguel’s generosity and grounded personality, calling him “sobrang chill” and easy to be around.

Anton Vinzon, the youngest in the group, looks up to Miguel as a role model both on and off screen. “Gusto ko pong maging kagaya ni Kuya Miguel,” he said. Bruce Roeland echoed the sentiment, noting Miguel’s involvement in the creative process and calling him a “creative genius.”

Mga Batang Riles became more than just a show — it was a shared experience that mirrored the themes of loyalty and personal growth central to its story. As the series concludes, the actors part ways not just as co-stars, but as friends who built a lasting connection during a pivotal time in their careers.