ABS-CBN keeps FPJ legacy alive

CEBU, Philippines - The late Fernando Poe Jr. or FPJ, dubbed as the King of Philippine Cinema for many reasons, had the charm, acting prowess, and the heroic guy appeal to succeed as a movie superstar. But more than that, he espoused positive moral values and honorable characteristics throughout his film career that he broke the conventions of a typical celebrity and endeared himself to the Filipino masses.

Widely regarded as a cultural icon, film legend, and the hero of the masses, FPJ was a well-loved character on- and off-screen who symbolized love for family, concern for others, moral integrity, diligence, and hard work, which he embodied in some of his memorable roles that identify with ordinary Filipinos.

Some of FPJ’s well-loved and memorable roles include the evil-fighting blacksmith Panday, loving father and mechanic Badong in Isusumbong Kita sa Tatay Ko, persevering boxer Totoy Bato, sympathetic taxi driver Nanding in May Isang Tsuper ng Taxi, and respected village leader Berting in Dito sa Pitong Gatang.

ABS-CBN recently acquired the rights to FPJ’s exclusive movie library, one of the biggest and most important libraries in Philippine cinema, a collection of classic movie titles that FPJ starred in, wrote, directed, and produced.

ABS-CBN President and CEO Charo Santos-Concio said: “ABS-CBN is honored to have been entrusted with his body of works that represent FPJ and what he believed in.  By showing his films on our different platforms on air and online, FPJ’s fans will be able to relive their memories of the beloved icon and the new generation of Filipinos will get to know more about the King of Philippine Movies,” she said.

Susan Roces, meanwhile, stressed that FPJ continues to be an enduring figure in Filipino cinema and culture, not only because the subjects in his films symbolized the Filipino masses, but because he had an affinity for underdogs.

“He liked playing a carpenter, a police officer, or a soldier. He did not play high-ranking officials, but rather ordinary police officers or soldiers because he believed their lives are more colorful,” Susan said.

She added, “When making films, FPJ took into account the beauty of the Philippines. Some of FPJ’s films were shot in far-flung, unknown areas but are now famous tourist spots.”

Also known as Da King, FPJ was posthumously declared A National Artist of the Philippines in 2006. He was an award-winning actor who won several accolades at the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) and was known for promoting the movie industry and the welfare of its workers.

Watch out for FPJ movies soon on ABS-CBN, Studio 23, Cinema One, Jeepney TV, and TFC. (FREEMAN)