Coco Martin, lead actor, director, and producer of ABS-CBN’s primetime hit ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,’ recently revealed his strict policy on maintaining a drug-free workplace.
In an exclusive interview with Ogie Diaz on his YouTube vlog, Coco shared that he mandated drug testing for all cast and crew members after learning of a potential issue on set.
“Bigla akong nagpa-drug test sa set—lahat ng artista, lahat ng production staff. May nag-positive, ang sabi ko, ‘Hindi ka pupuwedeng magtrabaho,’” Coco stated, underscoring his zero-tolerance policy.
While the full details of the incident are expected in the second part of Diaz’s vlog, reports indicate that the individual who tested positive was a member of the production team and a close acquaintance of Coco.
Despite their relationship, Coco stood firm in his decision to remove the individual from the set temporarily, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to professionalism.
“Ang pinaka-ayaw ko kasi ay nagtatrabaho ka para sa bisyo mo, kahit magtampo ka pa sa ‘kin,” Coco explained, reiterating his dedication to a productive and vice-free work environment.
Coco’s commitment to professionalism extends even to his family. His brothers, Ron and Ryan Martin, who are part of the show, receive no special treatment on set. “Lagi kong sinasabi, ‘Ayaw kong mapapahiya ako.’ Ayaw ko ‘yung baka mag-feeling o magtamad-tamaran,” he shared.
To maintain professionalism, Coco ensures his brothers are treated like any other cast members. They share tents with other co-stars and adhere to the same rules, with Coco emphasizing, “Nasa trabaho kami, hindi sa bahay.”
Off-screen, Coco also fulfills his role as the family’s provider. Having built houses for his siblings in a shared compound, he later moved them to separate homes in a nearby village to foster independence and minimize conflicts. “Isa-isa kong ginapang, pinag-ipunan ko lahat para nasa iisang village sila,” Coco said.
Coco’s own residence, dubbed a “resort” by neighbors, serves as a sanctuary for him and his parents, who live in separate units within the property.
Now on its second year, ‘FPJ’s Batang Quiapo’ remains a primetime favorite. Coco’s hands-on approach as a producer and director has been credited for the show’s success, with fans and critics alike praising its high production values and compelling storytelling.
