The second coming of Ace Vergel

Long before there was Robin Padilla, there was already Ace Vergel.

Considered the original "Bad Boy of Philippine Cinema," a big chunk of Ace’s colorful life was spent in show business. Being the son of the late thespian turned kapitana-de-barangay Alicia Vergel, acting on the big screen was inevitable.

"It was the only world I was introduced to, " he explains, adding that most of the basic lessons he learned in life, he got from being an actor. "I guess the very first thing one should take to heart is to keep one’s feet always on the ground. Fame, success and wealth, lahat yan nakakapag-palaki ng ulo,that’s why it’s very important to always keep your ego in check."

He is one actor known to be very passionate about his craft, which is why he gave us memorable performances in unforegettable films like Pieta, where he pitted talents with the late Charito Solis and former Body Beautiful Vivian Velez.Critics during Ace’s peak phase as an actor were unanimous in saying he was the best in the action-drama genre, citing depth and consistency as his strongest skills.

Although he scored well in the acting department, it was all the temptations that came with being a celebrity that made Ace stumble. At this time, perhaps we already have heard or read about allegations of him dipping his fingers into the drug scene and countless other charges involving women. Ace admits that it’s been a roller coaster ride ever since.

"It’s tough, but I guess it’s my faith in God that keeps me going," he intones, admitting that there were countless instances when giving up seemed the easiest way out. But his faith never wavered and God always stuck by his side.

No doubt Ace is a certified survivor in the game called life, and despite the continuing trials he faces, he remains firm in his belief that truth, no matter how others try to distort it, will eventually come out and rectify all the wrongs.

Although technically single, Ace is a proud father of two, one of whom is living a quiet life in Philadelphia.He blushes a little when I ask him if his romantic escapades at the moment are as colorful as his past loves. "Like any other man,I guess I experience lonely nights. But what can I do?" he replies.

It took more than 10 weeks to film his latest starrer Masamang Ugat and Ace feels invigorated from the experience. "Ang sarap ng feeling," he says, "pakiramdam ko hindi ako nawala ng tatlong taon."

He says that the most difficult part he had to essay was the steamy love scene with starlet Gwen Garci. "I didn’t even have time to internalize for that particular shooting day.Direk Willy (Milan) just told me the details of the scene and boom, it was actual take after that."

Ace adds, "I felt really bare, and talagang naked pala ang pakiramdam habang nakikipag love scene ako.It’s as if all my emotions just came out all at the same time." He says that if given another chance to re-do that particular scene, he’ll be more prepared. "Kasi parang mas aggressive at relaxed pa yung leading lady ko." he jokes.

On a serious note, Ace feels blessed he was once again entrusted a good role where he plays an assassin. "It’s like a rebirth.Parang second coming of sorts. And I’m thankful I am acting with the likes of Eddie Garcia."

Aside from his renewed acting vigor, Ace is very passionate about his hobby, drag racing. He owns an S-2000 Honda convertible and races in legitimate race arenas in the key cities of the coutnry. "I get an adrenaline rush in that sport. And I learn a lot about focus and the dynamics of strategy."

It’s been almost three years since Ace’s last movie (Karta Alas) was shown. That’s why it’s such a relief to know that Ace is back doing what he does best,and probably,this time, for good.