HOW FPJ, GRANDPA PAQUITO DIAZ INSPIRED KIKO ESTRADA IN 'TOTOY BATO'

"LUMUHOD KA SA LUPA" star Kiko Estrada is set to make a primetime comeback via TV5's upcoming series "Totoy Bato." Kiko will portray the iconic titular role created by comics writer and film producer Carlo J. Caparas and originally played by the late "Da King" Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) in the '70s film adaptation.

- By CHARMIE JOY PAGULONG

In the series version, Kiko as Totoy Bato becomes the savior of Pook Paraiso, using only his kamao. He will go head-to-head with powerful families.

"Totoy Bato" is helmed by Albert S. Langitan, with Zyro Radoc and Ambo Gonzales. It is produced by MavenPro and Sari Sari Network Inc., under the production of Studio Viva.

Kiko felt honored to take on an onscreen role originated by his idol, FPJ. "How FPJ did his stunts, wow! How amazing. FPJ has this aura. He has this thing," he said during an interview with The STAR and another media publication at the show's storycon. "And I just want people to see that I've worked hard for this role and the legends are my inspiration," he said, referring to FPJ, his late grandfather Paquito Diaz, who was also among the cast of the original "Totoy Bato," and all the other veteran actors who came before him.

"I respect them. I will do my best and do my own version of Totoy Bato."