From gaining recognition as the unforgettable “Kuya Bodjie” in the dearly cherished educational series “Batibot,” Bodjie Pascua ventured into another major acting endeavor, perfectly capturing the brutal characteristics of antagonist General Manuel Carillo in the tough world of “Blood vs Duty.”
Before even explaining how he would prefer to end the show, Bodjie thought deeply about the impact of General Carillo as a formidable villain, considering that the majority of the crimes and tragedies were centered around the character’s ruthlessness and never-ending desire to live up to his version of a better country.
“Lahat ng kasamaan doon sa kuwento sa kanya nagmula dahil sa kaniyang paniniwala na the greater good of the country is instilled by fear… Galit na galit ako doon sa character ko kasi napaka-salbahe,” he commented.
Speaking about the finale, the veteran actor then wanted the viewers to witness General Carillo’s much-awaited downfall, which would be a satisfying form of retribution for the injustices he committed. “‘Yung audience kailangan magkaroon ng catharsis from his evil… To get ‘yung karampatang comeuppance na equivalent doon sa lahat ng ginawa niya,” he added.
Besides that, Bodjie hoped the show’s messages would be remembered, especially the peace that should exist between religions as well as for the whole of society and the pursuit of justice that deserved to find its way into reality.
After looking back on his meaningful time in “Batibot,” the actor revealed that he had no trouble choosing to give a “yes” back when JRB Creative Production offered him the role of General Carillo.
Along with the encouragements that he received for stepping out of his good-hearted “Kuya Bodjie” image, his professional expertise as a stage actor absolutely contributed to his chilling portrayal of the “Blood vs Duty” character. “Sa teatro, nakakapag-explore ako ng iba’t ibang tauhan… I said ‘yes’ immediately kasi matagal ko nang hinahanap ‘yung ganung klasing challenge,” he expressed.
For the biggest challenge he encountered, Bodjie described the transformation itself into a villain as the toughest. “How do I make it believable to myself para I can internalize this character? ‘Yung pinakamalaking challenge [ay] ‘yung malalim na emptiness sa kalooban ni Carillo na kailangan niyang punuan ng power over people [or] over society para maramdaman niya na buo siya,” he emphasized.
As for what was the most memorable reaction that he heard from fans who grew up watching him in “Batibot” and now find themselves absorbing his performance as the merciless General Carillo in “Blood vs Duty,” Bodjie was most pleased that they viewed him as terrifying.
“Hindi lang kasi ito ‘yung unang kontrabida role ko… Ngayon [lang] ‘yung talagang it’s a big TV role, so mas madaming nagsasabi sa akin ngayon na nakakatakot [ako],” Bodjie concluded.
Applaud Bodjie Pascua’s flawless depiction of the ruthless General Carillo in the finale of “Blood vs Duty,” streaming on iWant and airing weeknights at 8:45 pm on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, and Kapamilya Online Live (KOL).
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