Piolo Pascual steps out of comfort zone

Piolo Pascual is stepping out of his comfort zone as he takes on his most vile role to date in his highly-anticipated TV comeback for "Pamilya Sagrado," the biggest family drama of 2024 that also stars Kyle Echarri and Grae Fernandez.

Known for his romcom charm and dramatic portrayals in various shows and movies, viewers will see a totally different side of Pascual as Rafael Sagrado, a sly, corrupt politician and a father basking in the glory of his family's power and greed.

"Taking on this character, I realize the responsibility of an actor to do something that hasn't been seen before. When this was offered, it wasn't about being a bad guy or creating a negative image. It's all about redemption. It's not all bad throughout. The journey starts here, but over time, you'll see his transformation not just as a politician or a father, but as a person," said Pascual.

"Pamilya Sagrado" is the final project of the late Dreamscape Entertainment, Deo Endrinal. According to Pascual, turning down the role would have been the biggest regret of his life, especially after Endrinal's passing.

"What really attracted me to the role was when they told me I might become the president of the Philippines here. I said, 'Tito Deo, me, president? I'm too young.' He said, 'why not?' So I thought, 'okay, if you believe I can do it.' That's when I realized, 'let's see, it's quite challenging, so why not do it?'" Pascual shared, explaining why he accepted the role.

"Well, of course, he starts out bad. But over time, he faces situations where he has to confront his demons and choose between right and wrong. There are many lessons to be learned from my character. We're halfway through the shoot, and there's still much to explore. I've really taken him to the darkest side so that his redemption is more impactful. I want to make him as human as possible, and I'm sure many will relate to him," he added.

"Pamilya Sagrado" is a gripping tale about the value of brotherhood and loyalty to one's family. The story will navigate the complex world of fraternities and hazing and what it means to go against one's morals to protect one's reputation.

The story introduces Rafael, an influential governor continuing his family's political reign. Viewers will also witness the clash between Moises and Justine (Echarri and Fernandez), two boys from completely different worlds.

Moises is a simple yet determined boy with big dreams, while Justine, the son of Rafael, is an entitled boy feeling immense pressure from his family to succeed. Despite their differences, Moises and Justine eventually form an unbreakable bond.

The Sagrado family's reputation is put in great danger when a student's wrongful death due to hazing is traced to a fraternity group led by Justine. With everything at risk, the Sagrados go to great lengths to protect their sacred image, and throughout the process, dark secrets come to light, threatening to tear their family apart.

"Pamilya Sagrado" premieres today, June 17 at 8:45 p.m. on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, Kapamilya Online Live, and TFC. The series also streams 48 hours before its TV broadcast on iWantTFC.

Directed by Lawrence Fajardo, Andoy Ranay, and Rico Navarro, "Pamilya Sagrado" boasts a powerhouse cast of industry veterans Shaina Magdayao, Mylene Dizon, Rosanna Roces, Aiko Melendez, Tirso Cruz III, John Arcilla, and Joel Torre.

The cast also includes Daniela Stranner, Jeremiah Lisbo, Alyanna Angeles, Micaela Santos, River Joseph, Emilio Daez, Sean Tristan, Austin Cabatana, Luis Vera Perez, Dustine Mayores, Miggs Cuaderno, Valentino Jaafar, Isaiah dela Cruz, Beaver Magtalas, and Renshi de Guzman.