Ruru Madrid is back to reclaim his throne as “Lolong” in a much-anticipated new season. Following his successful big-screen ventures and recent triumph at the 2024 MMFF as Best Supporting Actor, Ruru is set to deliver another captivating performance as the beloved character, promising even bigger action sequences and deeper emotional arcs.
Ruru shares the most important lesson he learned in portraying the role: “Siguro ang pinakanatutunan ko, hindi lang isang aktor na gumaganap bilang si Lolong kundi bilang isang tao. Ang pinakanatutunan ko, hindi mo kailangang magkaroon ng superpower para maging isa kang bayani. Kumbaga, as long as nakakatulong ka sa iyong kapwa, sa iyong pamilya…nakakapagbigay ka ng inspirasyon sa maraming mga tao, bayani ka. Yun kasi ang dadalhin ko habambuhay sa paggawa ng kabutihan (What I learned as an actor is how to portray Lolong as an actor. You don’t need to have superpowers to be a hero as long as you help others and your family. You serves as an inspiration to many people. That is my life ambition: To do good for others),” Ruru said.
Returning to the fold alongside Ruru are familiar faces: Shaira Diaz, Rochelle Pangilinan, Paul Salas, Mikoy Morales, Alma Concepcion, Maui Taylor and the esteemed Jean Garcia. Adding a fresh layer of intrigue to the already stellar cast are John Arcilla, Rocco Nacino, Martin del Rosario, Klea Pineda, and Tetchie Agbayani.
The first season of Lolong, a GMA Public Affairs production, made waves in 2022 as the most-watched television series. Recognized for its excellence, it was awarded Best Primetime Serye at the 2022 Gawad Pilipino Icon of the Year and achieved international acclaim as the Philippines’ National Winner for Best Visual/Special Effects at the 2022 Asian Academy Creative Awards.
Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan picks up where the first season left off, with Lolong striving for a world where peace and equality reign supreme for all, regardless of their differences. However, just as he begins to savor a life of tranquility with his beloved Elsie (Shaira), tragedy strikes on their wedding day, forcing Lolong to embark on a perilous quest to recover the legendary Ubtao, a gem possessing miraculous powers.
The ensemble cast is further strengthened by the inclusion of Victor Neri, Nonie Buencamino, Rodjun Cruz, Pancho Magno, Michelle Dee, Nikki Valdez, Bernadette Allyson, Boom Labrusca, Jan Marini, Gerard Pizarras, Archi Adamos, Nicco Manalo, Nikko Natividad, John Clifford, Waynona Collings, Rubi Rubi, Inah Evans, Barbiengot Forteza, Joe Vargas, Karenina Haniel, and Leo Martinez. The dynamic is further enriched with the addition of young talents Ryrie Sophia and Drey Lampago.
Lolong, a captivating blend of action, adventure, and drama, revolves around the extraordinary bond between a man and a giant crocodile named Dakila. In this new season, viewers can expect to witness Lolong facing unprecedented challenges and navigating unexpected twists as he strives to protect his people and restore harmony to their world.
Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan is co-directed by King Mark Baco and Rommel Penesa, whose combined expertise brings a cinematic flair to the series. This ambitious project signifies GMA Public Affairs’ commitment to delivering high-quality content as the network celebrates its 75th anniversary.
Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan premieres on 20 January, airing weeknights after 24 Oras on GMA Prime. Global Filipinos can also catch the action-packed drama via GMA Pinoy TV.