Yes, the planets aligned and the forces conspired as film master Erik Matti, maverick producer Dondon Monteverde, and Philippine showbiz’s “bagong hari,” Coco Martin, collaborate in two films, On The Job: Maghirang and May Pag-Asa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio.

Matti said on Maghirang: “It is set in the mid-90s, and the movie is about the backstory of Joel Torre’’s character Mario ‘Tatang’ Maghari. The film is slated for a 2026 showing.

“For 2027, May Pag-Asa will present a whole new spin on the life of Gat Andres Bonifacio.”

Martin said, “It has been a long-time dream of mine with the two industry titans, direk Erik and sir Dondon. I am fully committed to these films. I know I will learn a lot from them. I am excited.”

Monteverde, meanwhile, added, “Yes, these movies are ambitious, but we are doing it because we love Philippine cinema and the Pinoy audiences. We are truly raising the bar with these projects.”

With regard to the casting, nothing has been revealed yet. However, Martin promised, “Powerhouse cast for sure and not the usual casting combinations.” 

Hope springs eternal indeed for Philippine cinema with the trio con brio of Erik Matti, Dondon Monteverde and Coco Martin.