Arjo Atayde: Big break 'came too early'

Arjo is playing the son of Christian Vasquez and Sunshine Cruz. "I am happy-go-lucky person, a mama's boy, who really feels closer to his mom than his dad. But he likes sports like motocross and the big bikes," says Arjo about his role. "Another thing I can say about my role is that he's a kind of person who wants freedom from his parents even if he can (have) everything that he wants."

Just 14 months in showbiz, Arjo is feeling the pressure of being entrusted a big role in the series directed by top action director Toto Natividad. While he is thankful to his Kapamilya bosses that he was given a big role, Arjo can't help but be overwhelmed by the big break which he believes came too early in the game. "I'd like to thank my ABS-CBN bosses for giving me this break but I must admit I was shocked. Im am feeling the pressure although I am trying my best not to get bothered by it or else it might affect my work," he said.

"I don't want to lose focus. But I'd rather concentrate and prove to them that I’m worthy of the break that I was given."

What makes him inspired to give his best is the thought that he is working with the best people. That's why even if he is feeling the pressure, he is channeling these thoughts to make him excel in his work. Giving him added confidence is the trust that was given to him by the production team who is handling "Dugong Buhay." Plus he is working with some of the best actors in the industry as his support - Nonie Buencamino, Christian Vasquez, Ronnie Quizon same with Sunshine Cruz who plays his mother.

"I try not to focus on the pressure but more on the challenge that the role is giving me. As an actor, I want to explore with my performance. But there are certain ways that I need to follow to make my characterization believable. I should be able to show that I am sosyal because I am a De Lara. I should be able to show class and confidence. Things like that for me are challenging."

What was your reaction upon learning that you and Ejay are playing the lead roles in “Dugong Buhay?”

“I was shocked and overwhelmed because I feel the break to play the lead came too early but I feel very blessed even if there is some kind of pressure,” he said.

What challenge do you find in your role? “First of all, even if people might think that I am a cono kid, I am no cono kid.  May pagka-jologs ako somehow. Whatever happens, kahit saan ka makarating sa Manila, you will learn to be "jologs" in your ways. The challenge that I see is being able to meet the  need of the character to be a brat and be tough at the same time."

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The experience is really worth your while. We had the chance to try it upon the invitation of the good governor last Monday, Together with fellow writers invited by Gov. Salceda in connection with the Daragang Magayon Festival, a month-long festivity which highlights the beauty of the Bicol region, Gov. Salcedo treated us or we'd rather say dared us to try the Mayon Lava Trail Bicol Adventure. With experienced guides and riders, us and fellow writers rode ATV (all-terrain vehicle) as we made our way to top of Mt. Mayon  traversing through rocks, small ponds, lush vegetation and trees all the way to the top (well almost as we all got a beautiful view of Mt.Mayon). The adventure takes three hours going up,  going down. But we tell you, it was a guaranteed experience of a lifetime.

The Mayon Lava Trail Bicol Adventure just started about a month ago but it had already attracted a lot of people who are curious to give it a try. With the cheaper rate, well, you just reach a certain portion of the thrilling adventure, not at the 2500 above  sea level plateau. But if you have money to spare, we suggest you pay all the way up to the top.

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