Following his success in Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa on TV5, Kiko Estrada is diving into a new challenge, headlining the highly anticipated remake of the classic action film Totoy Bato, also on TV5.
The 32-year-old Kiko shares his excitement for the project, which honors his grandfather’s legacy while allowing him to step into the shoes of a beloved character.
“It’s my next project after Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa, and I’ve started preparations for the character I’ll play, especially on the physical aspect, like hitting the gym to get fit,” he said.
The actor shared that he has a special connection to the project, revealing that Totoy Bato is one of his grandfather, the late Paquito Diaz’s, most notable movies from 1977. It was top-billed by the late Fernando Poe Jr.
Kiko explained that his grandfather means everything to him, as he raised him and was the main reason he entered acting. Thus, he promised to give his best for the role.
Apart from the original film, Totoy Bato was first made into a television series by GMA-7, starring Robin Padilla in the title role in 2009. In this latest 2025 remake, Kiko will be joined by a talented cast, including Mark Anthony Fernandez, Eula Valdes, Diego Loyzaga, Bea Binene, Cindy Miranda, Nonie Buencamino, Art Acuña, Mon Confiado, Andrew Muhlach, Lester Llansang, Benz Sangalang, Billy Villeta, Ivan Padilla, Gold Aceron, and CJ Caparas.
Additionally, Jackielou Blanco, Katya Santos, Kean Cipriano, and his uncle Joko Diaz will have special appearances. The project will be directed by Albert Langitan and produced by MavenPro and Sari-Sari Network, Inc., in collaboration with Studio Viva.
Kiko revealed that he is already practicing boxing and that he had long wanted to star in the remake of Totoy Bato.
“Actually, what we did with Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa was trial and error. But with Totoy Bato, it’s going to be all the good ones. It’s our goal that its quality is like that of a movie.”
It would be interesting if his father, Gary Estrada, were also part of the project.
“Actually, it’s my wish. I thought it would materialize. I wanted him. But I guess he wasn’t given permission. I don’t know about his contractual obligations,” he revealed.
“I’m certain that if he could do it, then he will. But it’s sad. We have contract rules to follow, and I understand being an actor myself. Perhaps it’s not meant to happen at this point. Anyway, there’s still next time, right?” Kiko ended.
* * *
In a recent television interview, David Licauco revealed that a vehicular accident he was involved in back in 2013 changed his perspective on life, family, and friendship.
“Yes, I was with a friend, and we were on our way home from Tagaytay. I wasn’t the one driving the car. Suddenly, we hit a truck on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), and because of the strong impact, our car was divided into two. I was in front, and I had a seatbelt injury. I couldn’t breathe then,” he stated.
Unfortunately, David lost his friend in the accident.
“Yes, it’s painful to remember. He even got my mobile phone so I could call my mom. But he got into a coma and eventually passed away.”
The Pambansang Ginoo survived the accident because he was wearing a seatbelt, as advised by a parking attendant.
“It’s true that when you’re young, you hate to wear a seatbelt when in the car because it’s a hassle, right? But this parking boy reminded me to wear it, and it stuck with me. Thank goodness I listened to him!”
Because of the incident, David’s perspective on life has shifted.
“I learned to value my family and friends even more because you’ll never know, right? I think it’s always nice to let your friends and family know that you love them and you care for them,” he said.