MANILA, Philippines - Albert Martinez (photo) has withdrawn from the cast of Felix Y. Manalo: The Last Messenger, the historical biopic of Felix Y. Manalo, founder of the Iglesia ni Kristo. Representatives from Viva Communications Inc., the producer of the film, have confirmed that Albert’s manager, Shirley Kuan, requested that Albert be allowed to withdraw from the film last March 9 so he could attend to and spend more time with his wife Liezl who, at that time, was confined in the hospital. Viva Communications Inc. immediately accepted the request out of compassion for Albert’s situation.
Changes in the cast following Albert’s withdrawal have yet to be confirmed.