Actor Richard Gutierrez has long wanted to play a soldier. In Incognito, which ends its run on July 18, he takes on the role of Jose “JB” Bonifacio, a former Navy SEAL who forms a private military team to carry out missions beyond the reach of official forces.
The action-drama premiered on Netflix on Jan. 17 and has remained one of the platform’s most-watched shows in the Philippines since its debut. It later began airing on the Kapamilya Channel.
Produced by Star Creatives and Studio Three Sixty, the series was developed with input from Gutierrez, who pitched the concept with director Lester Pimentel Ong after being drawn to real-life stories about private military contractors.
“This was a dream role for me,” Gutierrez told Manila Standard Entertainment in an email interview. “I’ve always wanted to portray a soldier in a story that feels authentic and professionally done.”
With training in karate, jiu-jitsu, and muay thai, Gutierrez performed most of his own stunts and said he was ready for the physical demands of the role, despite sustaining minor injuries during filming.
Scenes were shot in Japan, Italy, Palawan, Marawi, Tacloban, Baguio, and Benguet. The 41-year-old actor said working in extreme weather was challenging, but collaboration among the team kept the production on track.
“A mission is impossible if you do it alone,” he said.
Over 100 episodes, the cast built a strong bond. Gutierrez said the group had become a “real family” by the time they filmed the show’s final scenes in Marawi.
Incognito was praised for its action sequences and polished production. While some critics noted predictable fight scenes and stylized dialogue, the series gave Gutierrez the chance to explore a role he had long been waiting for.
Now that the series is wrapping up, Gutierrez is preparing for a new project, which details are still under wraps.
“I’m excited to be back on the big screen,” he said.
He will also travel to London on Aug. 2 for a Filipino event, which he said will be a mix of work and rest.
Though action has dominated his recent projects, Gutierrez said he hopes to return to lighter material.
“I actually miss doing romantic comedies,” he said. “Hopefully, I can work on one again soon.”
He’s also interested in a period film set in the 1970s. When asked about his early influences, Gutierrez named Bruce Lee, Sylvester Stallone, and the James Bond series.
As part of his creative growth, the actor also said he’s open to working behind the scenes.
“Producing is part of my long-term plan,” he shared. “It’s a way to support the industry and help develop new stories.”
