Ang Probinsyano (1997) and Batang Quiapo (1986) were among the most iconic works of the late Fernando Poe Jr. in local cinema.
A new TV series based on another Fernando Poe Jr classic, may be around the corner as rumors suggested that Coco Martin also intends to adapt the box-office hit, Batang Quiapo, into a television drama after FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano.
The latter is a seven-year-old top-rating TV series which Martin stars. Rumors have it that the primetime series will have its finale episode, and the clamor for the Teleserye King to do another series based on an FPJ material.
Batang Quiapo follows the story of ex-convict Baldo (Fernando Poe Jr), who crosses paths with the young pickpocket, Maria, played by the Diamond Star, Maricel Soriano. The film was a box office back when it was released. Charo Santos-Concio, who currently appears on FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano TV series, produced the film.
Should a Batang Quiapo remake be pushed, either as a TV series or a movie, it will mark the third time Coco Martin starred a project based on an FPJ film, the first two being are Ang Probinsyano and Ang Panday. Ang Probinsyano is a serialized film that opened in local cinemas in 1997 and 1998, respectively.
Ang Panday, meanwhile, is a hit serialized film in the ’80s based on the story conceived and written by Filipino illustrator, screen writer, and director Carlo J. Caparas. Martin starred and directed the Star Cinema adaptation of the iconic sword-wielding hero in 2017.
What are your thoughts about this possible new TV adaptation? Will it be a hit to Filipino audience like FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano? Do not forget to share what you think in the comment section.