MORE THAN A MEDICAL DRAMA: 'THE GOOD DOCTOR PHL' TO HIGHLIGHT HEALTHCARE AND INCLUSIVITY

THERE'S A CERTAIN WEIGHT THAT COMES WITH ADAPTING A GLOBAL HIT, especially one as beloved as "The Good Doctor.

- MJ MARFORI

The author with Janella (left, photo), Jeffrey and Matet.

But if early signs are anything to go by, the Philippine version, now officially greenlit for TV5, isn't just playing it safe. It's aiming to resonate, to localize and to strike a chord that feels distinctly Filipino.

Production has finally begun on the local adaptation of "The Good Doctor," a series that has already carved out a loyal following worldwide. The project is spearheaded by MQuest Ventures and Creazion Studios, signaling a strong collaboration between major players now in the showbiz scene with the intent of raising the bar for Philippine TV storytelling and with a purpose.

At the center of it all is Iñigo Pascual, who is taking on what he himself calls the "role of a lifetime." He steps into the shoes of a young doctor with savant syndrome, a character that requires not only emotional depth but also a nuanced understanding of the medical field and neurodivergence. It's not an easy role to portray, and Iñigo knows what he needs to do to give the best.

During the recent table reading held in Quezon City, the actor shared how he went beyond the usual preparation. He immersed himself in hospital environments, exposing himself to the realities of the profession as he saw blood and felt the pressure of timely response and unpredictability of life, health and all.

"I actually enjoyed it," he admitted. "I went in there not knowing how I would react... especially with the sight of blood. But of course, I have to be ready and (be) prepared for this."