For power couple Dennis Trillo and Jennylyn Mercado, their latest series Sanggang Dikit FR marks several exciting firsts: their first teleserye together as a married couple, their first time co-starring in an action-drama, and their first project as fully-fledged partners both in life and on screen.

“This is a very special series for us,” shared Dennis at the show’s grand media launch held last 30 May. “It’s the first time we’re working together on something this intense. The material is different — it’s not just drama, it’s also full of action, suspense and comedy. It’s something new for both of us.”

From love team to law enforcers

In Sanggang Dikit FR, Dennis and Jennylyn portray law enforcers P/Lt. Antonio “Tonyo” Conde and P/Sgt. Roberta “Bobby” Enriquez, respectively. Their characters, though initially at odds, are forced to work together following a high-profile murder that hits close to home.

“The dynamic is interesting because we don’t start as partners,” Dennis explained. “There’s tension, there’s conflict. But as the story progresses, we’re drawn together not just by duty, but by deeper emotions.”

For Jennylyn, who is known for her dramatic and romantic roles, venturing into action for the first time was both thrilling and demanding. “This role is really a challenge. It’s my first action series,” she said. “There are a lot of running scenes, fight scenes — it’s very physical. You need to be fit, strong and ready all the time.”

Their commitment to authenticity was evident: the couple underwent intensive physical training, including target shooting sessions as early as February, to prepare for their roles as members of the police force.

Balancing work and marriage on set

While working together has its perks, Dennis and Jennylyn admitted that it also tested their professionalism.

“Of course, there are times we argue or have personal issues,” Dennis shared candidly. “But once the cameras roll, trabaho talaga. We leave everything behind and focus.”

Jennylyn agreed, noting that the key to surviving both the demands of marriage and the pressures of production is teamwork. “On cam and off cam, we have to be sanggang dikit — partners in everything.”

An ensemble cast and viral talents

Sanggang Dikit FR also boasts an impressive supporting cast, including Roi Vinzon, Jeffrey Santos, Nova Villa, Al Tantay, Allen Dizon, Joross Gamboa and Juancho Triviño, among others. Adding a fresh twist, the series features several digital content creators and social media stars like Abi Marquez (Lumpia Queen), Abdul and Marsy, Shernan, Ayanna Misola and Alona Navarro — bridging traditional storytelling with today’s online trends.

Guided by acclaimed director L.A. Madridejos, Dennis praised the series’ well-crafted narrative. “Our director really takes care of the story. Each character has purpose and depth. That’s one of the reasons we were drawn to this project.”

Sanggang Dikit FR airs on GMA Prime.