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“Biggest blessing in my life” is how Viva artist Kiko Estrada described his latest project: TV5’s newest offering, the TV series adaptation of Pinoy classic film ‘Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa.’ He stars alongside Rhen Escaño, Sid Lucero, and Sarah Lahbati, with Gardo Versoza, among a stellar ensemble.

The 1986 film was originally helmed by the legendary action star, Rudy Fernandez, and now revitalized with a fresh twist.

Taking the reins of the lead role is none other than the talented Kiko Estrada, whose stellar performances in various Vivamax titles have solidified his reputation as a comebacking rising star since his transfer to Viva Artist Agency.

Kiko Estrada’s big break

During the media conference after the press preview of their new show, Kiko reflected on his journey leading to his very first lead role in a TV series.

“Siguro sa buhay ng tao, ibinigay ko yung 11 years ko sa industriya. You, guys, saw me grow up. Nakita n’yo kong lahat lumaki. And akala ko, wala na talaga.”

It was back in 2011 when he made his first TV appearance through GMA Network’s youth-oriented television series ‘Reel Love: Tween Hearts,’ in which he is paired with Barbie Forteza.

He continued, “Si Mommy ang nag-convince sa akin at si Manong Joko [Diaz] na kausapin si Boss ulit. One thing led to another…

“Promise ko sa ‘yo, itong seryeng ‘to, binigay ko lahat. ‘Nilibing ko yung sarili ko sa lupa, binaril ako, sinaksak ako, nag-shoot ako within injury… Para makita lahat, nakakataba ng puso… Biggest blessing in my life meeting them [the cast].

“To have this beautiful cast and for me to head it for the first time, yeah, it means the world to me. And I hope you, guys, appreciate this thing that we made. Nakakataba talaga ng puso. I guess, it’s Kiko 2.0. We can start here.”

Sarah Lahbati’s comeback project

Seven years since her last TV drama project, The Promise of Forever, on ABS-CBN, StarStruck V’s Ultimate Female Survivor Sarah Lahbati is finally back on the small screen.

“Paano ba ‘ko napa-yes? I think, unang-una yung timing,” she answered during the presscon. “The timing of the TV series being presented to me felt ‘very’ right. And then, of course, the content, the material. Noong binasa ko yung material, sabi ko, parang para sa akin ito.

“Then, ‘yon na nga, when I started working on it with the whole team, our directors, the creatives, and my amazing co-actors, it was a confirmation na I made the right decision. And yes, kinabahan ako no’ng first taping day.

“Matagal ko na ngang hindi ginawa ‘to. But it continuously feels right na every time magti-taping ako, it just feels right na I am back with these people.”

Rhen Escaño’s first main TV role

“Karamihan sa mga tao, for sure, hindi nila alam na dito [sa TV5] nanggaling yung first ever teen-oriented show ko, which is ‘Lipgloss.’ And tagal na no’n,” shared Rhen Escaño when asked during the event about her feelings toward landing a main role.

Looking back, she narrated, “Sobrang proud na proud ako na naging part ako no’n. Kasi talent lang ako before, do’n sa mismong show na yon, and then napasok ako as one of the cast [members].

“And then ngayon, cut to, may series kami na ginawa and I’m part of the main cast. Para sa akin, malaking bagay siya. Lalong-lalo na, kita n’yo naman, ang gagaling ng mga kasama ko. Walang tapon — yeah, that’s the term.”

Joint venture of TV5, Studio Viva, Sari-Sari

Rediscover the magic of love with TV5, Studio Viva, and Sari-Sari as they proudly present a contemporary adaptation of the cherished action classic, Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa.

This timeless tale of love and vengeance, originally penned by Carlo J. Caparas and brought to life on the silver screen by Rudy Fernandez, continues its legacy in Filipino culture.

Revived with thrilling action sequences, this modern rendition promises to enthrall a new audience while honoring the essence of the original narrative.

Led by a stellar ensemble cast including Kiko Estrada, Sarah Lahbati, Sid Lucero, Rhen Escaño, and Gardo Versoza, alongside Mark Anthony Fernandez, Andrew Muhlach, Phoebe Walker, Andre Yllana, Ashley Diaz, Annika Co, Rose Van Ginkel, Jeffrey Hidalgo, and Jeric Raval, Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa delves into the pursuit of justice and redemption.

The story revolves around Norman Dela Cruz (portrayed by Kiko Estrada), a diligent student with dreams of becoming a lawyer. Norman’s life takes a dramatic turn when a land dispute between his mother, Tacing (with Ana Abad Santos), and her estranged brother, Benito Balmores (Gardo Versoza), ends in tragedy. Determined to avenge his mother, Norman finds himself conflicted as he falls for Benito’s daughter, Mercy Balmores (Sarah Lahbati), who is now married to Miguel Aguirre (Sid Lucero).

As Norman, now known as the successful lawyer Abra Espiritu, grapples with his desire for revenge and his suppressed feelings for Mercy, the boundaries between justice and love blur. Will Norman achieve his vendetta, or will love conquer all?

Tune in to the premiere of Carlo J. Caparas’ Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa on April 8, airing weekdays at 2:30 PM on TV5’s Hapon Champion block, with same-day catch-ups on Sari-Sari Channel at 8 PM.