Ruru Madrid feels 'at home' in Tondo while filming upcoming series 'Hari ng Tondo'

Ruru Madrid has found a second home in Tondo, Manila, as he films his upcoming Kapuso action-drama series, “Hari ng Tondo.”

In Nelson Canlas' report on “24 Oras” on Friday, the actor shared how warmly he and the production team have been welcomed by residents in the area.

"Siyempre, kailangan nating i-entertain lahat ng taong andoon dahil kami po 'yung kumbaga bisita eh," he said.

The actor added that wherever they shoot in Tondo, residents have made them feel welcome. As a way of giving back, Ruru said he supports local vendors whenever he gets the chance.

"Every time na may pinupuntahan kaming lugar sa Tondo, parang welcome na welcome kami. So hanggang sa maliliit na bagay na puwede kaming tumulong sa kanila, like for example si nanay na laging may nilalabas na mga tinda,” the Sparkle star said.

"Ang ginagawa ko, pinapakyaw ko 'yung mga tinda niya tapos pinapamigay ko sa set. Kasi parang in that way, kahit papaano sa mga residente na naiistorbo natin."

Aside from Ruru, the series also stars Rocco Nacino, who plays one of the series' antagonists. According to the Kapuso actor, he has adopted a different approach to prepare for his role.

"Nag-t-try ako ng something different. Since ini-enjoy ko ang pagiging kontrabida, nailalaro ko ang character ko. Sabi ko, i-try ko nga medyo i-distance ko ang sarili ko sa kanila baka mailabas 'yun sa character."

Rocco admitted that he is naturally playful, especially around his friends, which is why he decided to limit interactions while filming.

"Makulit kasi ako lalo na kapag kaibigan ko. Makulit ako. Lalaruin ko 'yung time na mayroon tayo, makikipagkwentuhan tayo."

“Hari ng Tondo” also stars Dennis Trillo, Ryza Cenon, Ysabel Ortega, Elle Villanueva, Arra San Agustin, and Heath Jornales.

Other cast members include Gary Estrada, Victor Neri, and Nonie Buencamino, with the special participation of Isko Moreno. The series is directed by Enzo Williams. —Jade Veronique Yap/CDC, GMA News