Composite photos of Manny Jacinto and Dolphy
Philstar.com / Dominique Nicole Flores, Pang-Masa / file

MANILA, Philippines — Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto has many plans in mind for projects that revolve around Filipino culture, and possible even star with local artists.

Manny appeared on the August 8 episode of “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” as part of his Philippine promotions for his latest movie “Freakier Friday” opposite Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis.

After playing the titular “Fast Talk” segment, Boy asked Manny that if he would consider the chance to shoot a movie in the Philippines.

“I think the actual goal is I’m trying to write and create stories that can hopefully actually film in the Philippines, whether it’s to act here or create stories about here,” Manny said.

Boy followed up by asking what kind of movie Manny would make, and “The Good Place” star shared he had a story in mind that revolves around sabong or cockfighting, which Boy found interesting.

“It’s a family story. I can’t say too much about it because it’s still in the works… something along those lines,” Manny added.

The host did point out to Manny that the topic of sabong was controversial at the moment, to which Manny said actual cockfighting wouldn’t be presented, then Boy reiterated tackling the cultural aspect of sabong would be an interesting take given its deeply ingrained in Filipino culture.

Later, Boy asked Manny which Filipino actor he’d like to work with, and the first person Manny mentioned was Tony winner Lea Salonga.

Manny shared it’s possible he and Lea have interacted on social media or have mutual friends, but they haven’t gotten to speak face-to-face yet.

Boy said that Lea is very supportive and engages a lot with Filipino artists, and echoed Manny’s pitch for a collaboration.

Manny also mentioned that he would have loved to work with Dolphy as the late Comedy King was a big part of Manny’s childhood.

Coincidentally, Lea recently reiterated her calls for Dolphy to be named a National Artist before considering herself.

“I want to do it all, I want to be able to represent onscreen Filipino faces and characters that we’ve never seen before,” Manny ended. — Video from GMA Network’s YouTube channel