Actor-director Coco Martin has shed light on the surprising turn of events in ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ that saw the deaths of key characters, including Lena (played by Mercedes Cabral) and Noy (Lou Veloso).

The sudden losses left fans stunned, particularly as they unfolded during the holiday season.

In an interview with ABS-CBN, Coco explained that the decision to kill off significant characters was dictated by the flow of the story.

“’Yun talaga ‘yung flow ng kwento. Kumbaga, hinog na siya,” he said.

The team decided against slowing down the narrative for the holidays, opting instead to maintain its momentum.

“Gusto ko kahit December o kahit ano ‘yung okasyon, dire-diretso. Ang dami naming interesting characters na dapat bigyan ng kwento,” he added.

Despite the emotional toll on viewers, the series continues to perform well in terms of ratings.

“Natutuwa kami kasi ‘yung ratings kahit December, ang ganda-ganda nang binibigay sa amin na pagmamahal at suporta ng mga tao,” Coco shared, thanking audiences for their unwavering loyalty.

With the show’s second anniversary approaching in February, Coco and the production team are planning even more explosive twists for 2025. They aim to deliver bigger surprises and more gripping storylines.

“Ibig sabihin nu’n, maganda ‘yung naibibigay nating kwento sa pagtutulungan ng lahat,” he said, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the series’ success.

‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ has continued to set the bar for Philippine television with its intense storytelling and compelling characters.

In a recent interview, Coco Martin, the lead actor and creative force behind the hit series “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” opened up about the surprising and emotionally charged character deaths that have left viewers reeling. The show, which has captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of life in the streets of Quiapo, Manila, has not shied away from depicting the harsh realities and consequences of the characters’ actions.

Martin, who plays the role of Tanggol, a former pickpocket trying to turn his life around, explained that the decision to kill off certain characters was not taken lightly. “We wanted to show that in the world of Batang Quiapo, actions have real and sometimes devastating consequences,” he said. “These deaths serve as a reminder that the choices our characters make can have a profound impact on their lives and the lives of those around them.”

One of the most shocking deaths in the series was that of Pacing, played by veteran actress Cherie Gil. Pacing, a mother figure to many of the young characters in the show, was brutally murdered by a rival gang leader in a pivotal episode. Martin revealed that Gil’s character was originally intended to have a longer story arc, but the writers felt that her death would serve as a powerful catalyst for the other characters’ development.

“Cherie Gil’s portrayal of Pacing was so compelling and heartfelt that we knew her death would have a profound effect on the audience,” Martin said. “It was a difficult decision, but we believed it was necessary to show the brutality and the senselessness of gang violence. Pacing’s death becomes a turning point for many of the characters, forcing them to confront the consequences of their actions and the path they have chosen.”

Another significant character death that left viewers stunned was that of Baldo, portrayed by rising star Jhomel Pasqual. Baldo, a loyal friend and ally to Tanggol, was caught in the crossfire of a gang war and tragically lost his life. Martin praised Pasqual’s performance, saying, “Jhomel brought so much heart and authenticity to the role of Baldo. His death scene was incredibly emotional and powerful, and it really showcased his talent as an actor.”

Martin also addressed the criticism that some viewers have expressed regarding the show’s violent content and the frequency of character deaths. “We understand that some people may find the violence in the show disturbing, but we believe it is necessary to portray the reality of life in Quiapo,” he explained. “We don’t glorify violence, but rather use it as a tool to explore the complex issues and challenges that our characters face. The deaths in the show are not gratuitous; they serve a purpose in the larger narrative.”

The actor-turned-director also emphasized the importance of showing the human side of the characters, even those involved in criminal activities. “We want to show that these characters are not just stereotypes or caricatures,” Martin said. “They are real people with hopes, dreams, and fears. They make mistakes and sometimes pay the ultimate price for their actions, but they are also capable of love, loyalty, and redemption.”

Martin revealed that the deaths of Pacing and Baldo will have a lasting impact on the remaining characters, particularly Tanggol, who feels responsible for not being able to protect his loved ones. “Tanggol’s journey is one of redemption and self-discovery,” Martin explained. “The deaths of those close to him serve as a wake-up call, forcing him to confront his own demons and the choices he has made. It’s a powerful and emotional story arc that we believe will resonate with audiences.”

As “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” continues to captivate viewers with its raw and unflinching storytelling, Coco Martin remains committed to delivering a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The shocking character deaths, while emotionally devastating for fans, serve as a testament to the show’s willingness to tackle difficult subjects and explore the complexities of human nature in a world where survival is a daily struggle.

“We hope that through ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,’ we can spark conversations about the real-life issues and challenges faced by marginalized communities,” Martin concluded. “The deaths in the show are a reminder that life is fragile and that every decision we make has consequences. We want to inspire our viewers to reflect on their own lives and the impact they have on others, and to work towards creating a more just and compassionate society.”

As the series continues to unfold, viewers can expect more twists, turns, and emotional moments that will keep them on the edge of their seats. With Coco Martin at the helm, “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” promises to be a groundbreaking and unforgettable television experience that will leave a lasting impact on Philippine entertainment.