Jun-Jun Quintana's thankful heart

MANILA, Philippines - When a relatively unknown actor lands a lead role in a movie or TV project, some people might say that it is a stroke of luck. But Jun-Jun Quintana believes that his lead role on CBN Asia’s Good Friday drama special, titled Gapos (Chained), is a big blessing from God. It airs at 5 p.m.

Jun-Jun gives life to the true story of Elmer Anibigno, a policeman in the ’70s who turned into the notorious leader of the Bulate Gang. Sowing fear during his infamous reign, Anibigno’s turnaround after he saw the light during his darkest and loneliest hour is the seed that prompted the heads of CBN Asia and 700 Club to make his life story into a movie for television.

“When I finally read the script and was informed that I will be taking on the lead role, I had goosebumps. The role of Elmer was very difficult and it required a deep understanding of who he was and why he did the things he did in order for any actor to breathe life to his character. So I took it as a challenge, and was assured by my manager (Ricky Gallardo) that I will be in good hands,” Jun-Jun shares.

John Tan, COO of CBN Asia, also happens to be the main man behind the camera for the Holy Week drama special that also stars thespian Bembol Roco. Tan started the drama showcase as part of the reach out and evangelization mission of CBN Asia four years ago, turning it into a much-awaited annual Holy Week presentation. Another person responsible for casting Jun-Jun was Icko Gonzales, himself a host and actor, who also plays an active role in CBN Asia.

“We had another actor in mind but the actor backed out a few days before we started shooting. Jun-Jun was among those presented to us and I guess it was God’s hands working when He gave our team the wisdom to choose Jun-Jun,” volunteers Icko, adding, “After only the first of three shooting days, we knew that God gave us the best person to play the role of Elmer. Jun-Jun is a natural and was perfect for the role. For someone who was not even born during the ’70s, Jun-Jun was able to talk and move and feel like someone from the ’70s. Jun-Jun’s heart and mind were definitely at their right places. ”

Jun-Jun tells us that his experience working with the CBN Asia team is also a life-changing one. “Not only am I thankful to land this big role, but working with the team also allowed me to delve deeper into the core of my being. When you do something and it moves and affects people in a good way, then I guess you also feel renewed and revitalized yourself. That’s why I also look at acting and the projects I take on as venues where I can affect and inspire others.”

From our conversation with Jun-Jun, we learned that the 24-year-old promising actor came from very humble beginnings and his life’s story is also inspiring. “We grew up knowing how it feels to live on a day-to-day basis. I am not ashamed to say that life is a constant uphill-downhill climb. I have to stop school so my other siblings can continue with theirs. The small income I get from being a new actor goes straight to my family, because we have an unwritten rule to share no matter how little.”

Jun-Jun admits that he had his share of frustrations as a newcomer. “I guess every new actor shares the same experiences. When one does not have a name yet, nobody gives you importance. You are made to wait for long hours before your scenes are taken. Some people can push you around if you allow yourself to be. You can also be taken advantaged of by those who abuse their powers and authority. That is why you have to always be steadfast and guarded.”

His showbiz dreams are big, but Jun-Jun reiterates that these are realistic, too. “I want to become a real actor, a good one, a credible and respected actor. That’s why I work very hard every time I am assigned a role. I have made some mistakes in the past, have trusted people too much and have learned some lessons the hard way. But I feel lucky that I am now being guided very well professionally, and I will forever be grateful to my manager, (Sir) Ricky Gallardo for taking me under his wings. He is certainly God-sent.”

The future l      ooks bright indeed for Jun-Jun. He hopes that with the lead role in Gapos, people from the major networks will take a second look at him and see his promise as an actor. “I hope that I will be able to get good, regular roles on TV and the movies. I need these projects to give my family a better, more comfortable life. I need work assignments to constantly assure me that I have chosen the right career. I am quite positive that this wonderful experience and big break will open bigger doors for me. This early, I give thanks to God for all his blessings, for loving me and for sending me people who love me for who I am.”