Actor Robin Padilla is very passionate about his latest film where he plays the titular role. Since the time he announced that he was portraying former Philippine National Police chief Gen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa in a film, the action star has been very active on social media giving his fans updates on the big screen project.
He first announced that he would play the character of Gen. Bato via a sneak peek for the film in December. A few weeks later, he shared the second trailer of the movie showing his shaved head.
“I had to copy how Bato walks kasi iba ang lakad ng mga military. We are different, appearance-wise if you look at us now but we could be of the same size in the part of his life shown in the movie. I can’t exactly copy Gen. Bato because I also have an interpretation of the character as an actor, but we try to be as truthful as possible in showcasing the character,” Robin told the press in a media event held last Thursday.
But copying Bato wasn’t really the biggest challenge he encountered when filming the movie—he had to cry in the film, something he hasn’t done in his previous big screen projects.
“Sa buong buhay ko, hindi pa ako humagulgol sa pelikula. I have never been shown crying in a scene. But I have to be like Gen. Bato na matikas sa mata ng publiko pero umiiyak din. Just like Manny Pacquiao who is not ashamed to cry in public. Tough men cry,” the 49-year-old action star asserted.
Bato The Movie: The General Ronald Dela Rosa Story tackles the colorful life of the former PNP chief. But more than just being a policeman who dedicated his life and loyalty to his country, the movie also shows a different side of the man who’s known for his loyalty to the President.
At first look, people might see Bato as a bulky and a tough-looking police officer but behind the alpha male appearance is a man who is passionate about fighting for the good and compassionate about his family. The film shows that he is a loving husband and a caring father.
The film also mirrors the challenges that a policeman encounters in the field. It emphasizes the daily dangers that a police officer faces brought about by his sworn dedication to protect the oppressed and fight for the good.
Joining Robin Padilla in the movie is an all-star cast including Beauty Gonzales, Alvin Anson, Archie Alemania, Chanel Morales, Efren Reyes, Gardo Versoza, Gina Alajar, Jess Mendoza, Joko Diaz, Jun Hidalgo, Kiko Estrada, Kiko Matos, Manuel Chua, Marx Topacio, Menggie Cobarrubias, Mon Confiado, Polo Ravales, and Ricky Davao.
From AVL and Regal Entertainment, the film unspools in theaters tomorrow, Jan. 30.