The Lapids, a family with deep ties to Philippine showbiz and public service, displayed their enduring ability to engage audiences while discussing their ongoing roles in the popular action series “Batang Quiapo” during a recent holiday catch-up.
As Senator Lito Lapid — famed for his role as the “Supremo” in the Coco Martin-starrer — and his son, Mark Lapid, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) — a member of the series’ huge star-studded supporting cast as Ben Camacho — reflected on the year that’s about to close, they said they cannot be more grateful that they’ve been able to pursue their dual functions as action stars and public servants successfully in 2024.
Tieza Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid
Both still on a high over the Senate’s official recognition of Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines this year — a distinction they have both been pushing for since they were still respective governors of their beloved province — they agreed that having an outlet from their demanding government posts is an asset in performing their duties effectively.
Contrary to what others might believe that dabbling in their original professions can only distract them from their responsibilities, COO Mark explained, “In our work in the government, it’s all meetings — morning, afternoon and evening — presentations and ribbon-cutting. But when I have the opportunity to return to showbiz, it feels like there’s balance. It’s as if it becomes easier to face stress because I have another world to turn to.”
He further explained how the creative world gives him a chance to unwind and recharge amid the pressure of leading Tieza.
“Showbiz gives me a different kind of joy. I’m happy that even with the busyness of public service, I have a way to relieve stress,” COO Mark added.
Segueing into Sen. Lito’s story, the conversation turned to the unique perspective of someone who successfully transitioned from the silver screen to the Senate floor. Known as one of the most enduring action stars in Philippine cinema, the seasoned legislator spoke about how his age has become a badge of honor rather than a limitation.
“I’m already a senior citizen, but look, I can still inspire,” he said with a chuckle. He further noted, “I might be the oldest action star in the Philippines, but I have no plans of stopping. As long as I can, I’ll continue serving.”
Reflecting on his iconic career, Sen. Lito also shared how his humble beginnings as a stuntman shaped his commitment to hard work and perseverance.
“As an actor, you learn to get along with everyone. You can carry that even in the Senate,” he explained.
This relatability, according to the reelectionist senator most especially helps him connect with ordinary Filipinos, a trait he believes contributed to his longevity in both showbiz and politics.
Meanwhile, no conversation with Sen. Lito would be complete these days without touching on his celebrated on-screen pairing with the esteemed actress Lorna Tolentino (LT) on “Batang Quiapo.”
The topic, which The T-Zone relentlessly pursued, elicited laughter and endless teasing from both the media and the senator’s staff during the Q&A.
Happily surprised over the ever growing supporters of “PriManda” — a portmanteau of their characters, Primo and Amanda in the series — Sen. Lito shared this much about his friendship with the premiere actress, “LT and I have a good relationship, even in real life, not just in the movies.”
He further described their dynamic as built on mutual trust and respect: “I am thankful that until now, people still love us as a love team, especially since, as you said, love teams that break up are trending now.”
Amid murmurs that the senator and LT’s relationship has transcended the screen, the action star firmly declared, “Of course, that’s just work. Lorna is single [the actress is the widow of another iconic action star, Rudy Fernandez]. As for me, we all know I’m married.”
Chuckling over his dad’s unexpected popularity as prime time series lover boy, COO Mark shared, “Actually, the management consulted us about their love team. A lot of names were given. So, director Coco looked into who would be suitable for my dad. It was very successful during the time of ‘Ang Probinsyano’ with Angel Aquino. That was the first time they saw that it could work. This time again, I think it [PriManda] worked.”
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