Alden Richards, a Kapuso network actor and talent, was on the receiving end of negative comments after he appeared in Alaala: A Martial Law Special. The actor played the role of student activist and now screenwriter Bonifacio ‘Boni’ Ilagan, who recounted his experience under martial law rule.
According to a PEP.ph report, a netizen took to Facebook to complain about Alden using his popularity to destroy former President Marcos’ name and his achievements during his rule. Despite this, the actor seems unfazed about any negative comments.
Alden Richards: ‘Brush It Off’
Although he did not directly respond to these comments, he took to Instagram hours after the special was aired. His Instagram post was appropriately captioned ‘Brush it off.’
In a Twitter post on Monday, Alden also expressed his gratitude to those who watched the docu-drama and shared their kind thoughts about his performance. A few days before the Sep. 17 airing, the actor earlier said that he was not concerned about the criticisms he may get for taking on the role. According to him, “It’s actually just for the purpose of showcasing what happened during Martial Law. It’s not related to any political issue.”
Among the people who praised Alden for his portrayal is Boni Ilagan’s daughter, Dey Ilagan. She first thanked the actor for taking the part and then goes on to praise him and the team behind the special. In a Twitter post, she said “You know the best part? Hindi yun extra-dramatized for showbiz sake. Those were legit moments of my father’s.”
Remembering The Dark Days Of Martial Law
Other netizens cited how ‘brave’ Alden was for showing everyone “a glimpse of a horrible past.” Some also thanked him for using his popularity and influence to “educate others.” Under martial law, over 75,000 cases of human rights violations were reported and filed, mostly perpetrated by the Philippine Constabulary.
According to an Inquirer report, he also gained new admirers and fans after this project of his. Alden worked with director Adolfo Alix, Jr. as well as Rocco Nacino, who played the young Pete Lacaba, another student activist. Gina Alajar and Bianca Umali also joined the docu-drama cast.
According to GMA News, Alaala will be aired again on Sep. 23 and 24 on GMA 7.