Prior to the anticipated appearance of Miguel Tanfelix’s character Galo in “Taskforce Firewall,” the clean-looking and agile soldier-agent figured in an intense, long action sequence in Dingdong Dantes’ “The Master Cutter.”
Ally of scout ranger Atoy (Dingdong), Galo bravely carried the task even if it meant putting his life at risk. That took place 10 years ago (2016) in the “The Master Cutter” timeline.
His story, however, continues in the now-airing “Taskforce Firewall.” It sees Galo in a disheveled look and dealing with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
“Parang ganun (it seems like that and my) first time,” said Miguel of having a character who has crossed over from one show to another or made a special appearance in a recent group chat.
What thrills him, the young actor added, is “the possibility of Kuya Dong (as Atoy) making a cameo in ‘Firewall’ kasi yung character ko buhay sa mundo niya (since Galo has lived in his character’s world)… that’s exciting.”
It could happen in the future since Miguel knows that Dingdong is open to collaborations with fellow stars.
As for the physical look of his every character, like the protective group leader Kidlat in “Mga Batang Riles,” he had this to share: “Ako po kasi binabase ko talaga yung look ko sa magiging character ko (I would base it on the character description itself).”
“Like I’ve said earlier, my character (in ‘Taskforce Firewall’) has PTSD. So, the look is a bit like someone (or he appears as someone) who doesn’t shave and has long hair,” shared he. “Walang masyadong time para alagaan ang sarili (he doesn’t have much time to take care of himself) dahil meron siyang mga ibang bagay pang-iniintindi bukod sa sarili (because there are other things that preoccupy his mind besides himself).”
Miguel described the TV series as “hard action,” but it also has a dramatic element.
“Hindi mawawala yung drama (it won’t be excluded) dahil gusto nating may puso palagi yung materyal na ginagawa (because we want that there’s heart in every material we’re doing),” said he, adding that there’s a reason behind the action-packed scenes.
Trying his hand at this genre, he found it fun, challenging and tiring. Doing new stunts on set also excites him and the ensemble cast. Miguel shared that director Rico Gutierrez is very collaborative, which complements his desire to explore new roles as an actor.
Part of his character preparation was attending Air Force training, learning to handle a pistol and rifle, as well as understanding protocols in entering premises during firewall operations. Miguel also researched the character’s psychological condition. He and his director would discuss it for an accurate portrayal.
“Mahirap po siya kasi hindi nila kontrolado, eh (it’s difficult since they can’t control it),” said he about the plight of those who suffer from it. “(It’s the) same with Galo, who has no control over it, at hindi rin siya ganun kadaling pahupain kumbaga (it doesn’t go away easily). I’ve spoken to some, who said that (the attack or episode) sometimes lasts for half a day.”
Aside from that, “Taskforce Firewall” is about cybercrime, like people getting scammed through social media and new technologies. Its publicity team said that the political action-drama series aims “to raise awareness and promote the prevention of rampant cybercrimes through compelling storytelling.”
Does Miguel consider going into full-time with the action-career path given his previous work and a guest appearance (in “Mga Batang Riles” and “The Master Cutter”) and his present primetime show?
“Hindi ko naman po masasabi na action star ako (I can’t say if I am one),” answered he. “I’m more (of) an actor. So, kung ano yung ibibigay na materyal sa akin, makakaasa sila na ginagawa ko yung best ko (whatever role is given to me, they can expect that I’ll give my best).”
It also goes the same with the genre — be it drama or action — assigned to him.
“And I’m also hoping to experience (and do) different genres on TV or in the movies,” shared he.
“Siguro, first time palang mangyayari sa akin (maybe it’s my first time),” said Miguel about his small-screen visibility given his shows like “Taskforce Firewall,” which airs weeknights at 8:55, “Planet XP” and “All-Out Sundays” (on weekends).
“Ang masasabi ko lang blessing po siya (to me, it’s a blessing) dahil ang daming work (because there’s a lot of work),” said he. “I’m just thankful and grateful.”
Please watch “Taskforce Firewall” on GMA Prime, Kapuso Stream, GMA Play and GMA Pinoy TV.