Young actor Miguel Tanfelix was so excited to talk about his latest project that he said it would give his fans a sneak peek of what he is planning to do in 2025.
In an interview with Manila Standard Entertainment, the 26-year-old star described 2024 as “very eventful,” with a mix of intense work schedules and enriching travel experiences. After completing Running Man, he had the opportunity to travel to Japan and Bali, “which are part of the highlights of my 2024,” he said.
This year, Miguel is ready to shift gears and be even more dedicated to his craft.
“I’ll be laser-focused,” he smiled. “Perhaps I’ll have a more concentrated approach to my future projects.”
This commitment to focus is already clear in his current project, Mga Batang Riles, the latest drama series from GMA Network. For Miguel, Mga Batang Riles is more than just a TV project—it’s another opportunity to demonstrate his growth as an actor.
In Mga Batang Riles, Miguel plays Kidlat Asuncion, a principled young man struggling with poverty in Sitio Liwanag. As the leader of a group of underprivileged boys, Kidlat must fight against a wrongful accusation and clear his name. Along with his companions, including Kokoy De Santos, Raheel Bhyria, Bruce Roeland, and Antonio Vinzon, Kidlat challenges corruption and injustice in their town, hoping to restore honor and truth.
The series also marks the return of action star Ronnie Ricketts as Bayani Salvacion, with Diana Zubiri taking on a special role as Maria ‘Maying’ Asuncion. The drama promises intense action, with themes of resilience, which Tanfelix seems to embrace throughout his career.
Miguel expressed gratitude for the trust GMA has placed in him. “Perhaps they see my drive and passion for every project I do. That’s why they give me projects like this,” he said. “I have no issue with any role or show they assign me because I will give my 101 percent.”
Discussing the physical demands of the series, Miguel compared the level of action in Mga Batang Riles to his previous role in Voltes V. While Voltes V featured more robotic action, Mga Batang Riles centers on human-driven, intense stunts.
“It’s really hardcore action,” Miguel explained. “There can’t be a day without action, there can’t be a day without stunts. It’s physically tiring, but it excites us as actors.”
The series keeps the cast on their toes, as each taping day brings new challenges. “Every taping day involves action, and there’s always something new to look forward to,” he shared.
The show also features a strong cast, including Jay Manalo, Roderick Paulate, Jeric Raval, and Desiree Del Valle, alongside the younger generation of actors such as Zephanie, Faye Lorenzo, and TikTok creators Jomar Yee and Spencer Serafica. The show also features veteran actors like Cris Villanueva, Tina Paner, Chuckie Dreyfuss, and many others.
Mga Batang Riles is directed by Richard Arellano, with a special contribution from dramatic director Laurice Guillen.
“The series is a story of resilience, justice, and the unyielding spirit of youth,” Miguel stated. “Kidlat and his friends fight for their town and their futures, we aim to inspire viewers through our portrayal of perseverance and courage in the face of adversity.”
Mga Batang Riles premieres tonight and airs from Monday to Friday at 8:00 p.m. on GMA Prime, with global audiences able to catch it on GMA Pinoy TV.
