Tom Rodriguez returns at primetime

Tom Rodriguez is back on primetime, and his arrival comes with unfinished business.

The Kapuso actor joins the cast of The Master Cutter: Anak ng Sinulid, taking on the role of Oscar “Oca” Asuncion in the latest chapter of the series led by Dingdong Dantes.

Oca’s story begins with a surprise that changes the course of Atoy’s mission. Believing his former brother-in-arms had died years ago, Atoy discovers that Oscar survived the ship explosion that nearly claimed both their lives. The two men once saved each other, making their reunion an emotional one, but their shared history has left behind wounds that have yet to heal.

Oscar’s return is not exactly a happy homecoming. Carrying years of pain and resentment, he keeps his distance from Atoy and the life he has built in Barangay Tabang-Lupa.

When Atoy introduces him to the community, Oscar sees a side of his former comrade that he never knew existed — and it only adds to the complicated feelings he has carried since their separation.

Whether those emotions will bring the two back together or push them further apart remains to be seen.

Becoming part of the series was an opportunity Rodriguez was happy to take on.

“Dingdong is amazing, sila ni Sienna [Stevens] and Audrey played by Max Collins, grabe ‘yung chemistry nila. ‘Yung chemistry ng buong Barangay Tabang-Lupa. Kaya to be part of that, I feel blessed,” he said.

Herlene Budol, Ahtisa Manalo and real-life father-and-son duo Benjie and Andre Paras also join the growing cast.

Catch the series weeknights at 8 p.m. on GMA Prime. It is also available for streaming on Netflix.