How FPJ, grandpa Paquito Diaz inspired Kiko Estrada in ‘Totoy Bato’

“Lumuhod Ka sa Lupa” star Kiko Estrada is set to make a primetime comeback via TV5’s upcoming series “Totoy Bato.” Kiko will portray the iconic titular role created by comics writer and film producer Carlo J. Caparas and originally played by the late “Da King” Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) in the ‘70s film adaptation.

In the series version, Kiko as Totoy Bato becomes the savior of Pook Paraiso, using only his kamao. He will go head-to-head with powerful families.

“Totoy Bato” is helmed by Albert S. Langitan, with Zyro Radoc and Ambo Gonzales. It is produced by MavenPro and Sari Sari Network Inc., under the production of Studio Viva.

Kiko graces the storycon of ‘Totoy Bato’ with co-stars Bea Binene, Andrew Muhlach and Diego Loyzaga.

Kiko felt honored to take on an onscreen role originated by his idol, FPJ. “How FPJ did his stunts, wow! How amazing. FPJ has this aura. He has this thing,” he said during an interview with The STAR and another media publication at the show’s storycon. “And I just want people to see that I’ve worked hard for this role and the legends are my inspiration,” he said, referring to FPJ, his late grandfather Paquito Diaz, who was also among the cast of the original “Totoy Bato,” and all the other veteran actors who came before him. “I respect them. I will do my best and do my own version of Totoy Bato.”

Kiko welcomed the “pressure” that comes with portraying the notable character and at the same time, he is thrilled because it’s the first project where Paquito was part of it via the ‘70s flick.

“Pressure is a must. Pressure makes diamonds,” asserted Kiko. “And I’m with a good team, the same director, Albert Langitan, and the production team, Viva, TV5, in the same slot. And I’m excited.

Nonie Buencamino, Joko Diaz and Mon Confiado.

“It’s the first project that I’m gonna do that has my lolo Paquito in it. And siya po yung nagpalaki sa akin nung bata ako. He is my inspiration in acting. And now, I have the opportunity to play the titular role in a film that he was part of. And to be honest, I always wanted to play FPJ.”

Kiko recalled that as he grew older and mature, he realized how great his grandpa was. “The amount of commitment that he gave to his character, grabe. So at the end of the day, kontrabida siya sa mga mukha ng ibang tao but he in my life, bida yung lolo Paquito ko.”

Kiko furthered that he started acting because of the late veteran actor and he dedicated “Totoy Bato” to Paquito and his grandmother, Nena Diaz. “This is dedicated to my family, so it’s more personal. And I wanna make everyone proud.”

Jackielou Blanco and Eula Valdez.

Hailing from a showbiz clan, Kiko’s mother is former actress Cheska Diaz, and his father is Gary Estrada. He is also the grandson of George Estregan. Kiko’s uncle, Joko Diaz, is acting alongside him in “Totoy Bato” series.

“Siguro yung gusto rin sa akin ng lolo Paquito ko, is to be the best version of Kiko. Tanggalin mo na yung Diaz, tanggalin mo na yung Estrada, I want to be known as Kiko… Kasi parang may comparison na agad (to the Diaz and Estrada showbiz personalities). But I was a young man, of course, ang hirap nun,” expressed Kiko.

“But now that I’ve been in the industry for some time, a lot has happened. I’m on a good path right now, I’m really happy.”

Cindy Miranda.

Joining the cast of “Totoy Bato” are Bea Binene, Cindy Miranda, and Diego Loyzaga, along with Nonie Buencamino, Mon Confiado, Art Acuña, Mark Anthony Fernandez and Eula Valdez, with the special participation of Katya Santos, Kean Cipriano, and Jackie Lou Blanco.

Andrew Muhlach, Billy Villeta, Ivan Padilla, Lester Llansang, Benz Sangalang, Gold Aceron and CJ Caparas, the son of Carlo J. Caparas, will also appear in the show. “Totoy Bato” will likewise introduce Lawrence dela Cruz, Benedict Lao, Natania Guerrero, Jeremiah Cruz, Dwayne Bialoglovski and Stanley Abuloc.