Actor Wilbert Ross has marked a new milestone in his life as he is now a published author upon the release of his first novel.
"Just released my 1st novella which is also my 1st ever story written. 'Pagbilang Kong Tatlo' under @8lettersbooks at the @manilabookfair," he shared on his Instagram page.
Wilbert relayed that the first time he conceptualized the story was in 2018. "Way back 2018, habang kumakain ako may narinig ako na nag uusap sa food hall ng ABS about naglaro daw sila ng patintero at sobrang brutal daw. Natigil ako sa kinakain ko at natulala. Inisipan ko agad ng kwento at tinype sa phone ko," he recounted.
The actor shared that he explored partnering with a scriptwriter and production companies, but it did not materialize.
"Tried looking for a scriptwriter para maging partner ko sana since di ako marunong magsulat. Pero walang nagtiwala. Messaged a lot of production company para ipitch sana yung kwento ko. Pero walang sumagot," he said.
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He began writing the story in 2021, which would soon become his first novel.
"Fast forward nung 2021, kalakasan pa ng pandemya. Naka 1 week quarantine lahat ng artista bago payagan mag shoot. Dun ako na bored at sinimulang isulat ang kwentong to gamit MSword kahit sabog sabog ang format. Hanggang sa natutunan ko magsulat sa maayos na format. Sa tulong ng mga tao nasalin sa Manuscript format yung kwento ko at nadevelop unti unti hanggang sa nabuo tong libro na 'to," he said.
Wilbert expressed his joy and pride to have published his first ever novel.
"Isa palang to sa mga kwentong nasulat ko na. Masaya ako at nabahagi ko sya at sana mabahagi ko pa ang iba ❤️ Maraming salamat sa lahat ng sumuporta dito," he remarked.
Fans online were quick to congratulate Wilbert on this new milestone in his life.
"Congratulations! Can't wait to read your book. Proud of you!" one fan commented.
"Congratulations Bert! Nakaka proud ka. Sobrang deserve mo kung nasan ka man ngayon. Alam ko na madami ka pang ishoshowcase and I can't wait," another fan wrote.