Showbiz Periscope

ROBIN PADILLA ON THE YEAR THAT WAS

By Pablo A. Tariman
Manila
November 30, 2015



Way before Bonifacio and Luna, there was Marilou Diaz-Abaya's Jose Rizal.

Robin admits he doesn't expect to match Cesar Montano's achievement in the Abaya film but he is happy more people are supporting films about national heroes. “That is why I am happy that he took over my role inNilalang. It was a perfect choice as far as I am concerned.”

On the other hand, it was also a very trying year.

       He had hoped to be a brand new father once more but it wasn’t meant to be.

       The loss was devastating because it was not just one, not just two but three little angels joining their family. For some reasons, he and his wife Mariel had to cope with another trial in their conjugal union.

       Robin’s face book post -- with picture of his wife in the hospital -- says it all in his own language: “Ang lungkot at ligayang dulot ng pagtatapos ng isang kabanata sa Buhay patungo sa pagbubukas ng panibago.”

       Rued he: "Yes, it is depressing to lose something you looked forward to nurturing,"  said he with a hint of tears in his eyes.

       He related how he tried to make sad moment lighter for his wife but in vain. He noticed how Mariel gained weight when coping with depression.

       At 46, Robin has coped with fame and misfortune and emerged strong and invincible. “You can’t ask what you always deserve and when the blows come, I know I am better off accepting it than blaming yourself or other people. I am one of the few who went through true-to-life rehearsals of misfortune and I am glad I went through everything and survived it. It is the mark of my faith and my character.”

Meanwhile, the international version of the Robin Padilla starrer, Andres Bonifacio is now showing in selected SM theaters as part of the celebration of Bonifacio Day. An  entry to the 2014 Metro Manila Film Festival,  Bonifacio did not fare well  in the box office  but went on to win over 20 awards not only from the MMFF but also from the FAMAS and the PMPC Star Awards for Movies this year, including Best Picture from each of these award-giving bodies.

He said he has learned a good lesson endorsing politicians. “Politics has its good and bad side. That is why when you are in showbiz, you have to be extra careful. I know that my nephew’s choice (Daniel Padilla’s) is bound to be controversial but he is 18 years old and I give him that right to decide on his own. My only regret is that in my time, I endorsed someone who went to jail. That is why Daniel has to be careful who he is endorsing. Politics and showbiz make for a fatal combination if not handled discreetly.”

In parting, the actor said he is thankful for the blessings and thankful that he and his wife are coping very well. “It was a very good year and come year end, we all have reasons to celebrate one way or the other.”