“In love na in love ako!”
This was the delighted reaction of Julia Montes when asked about the new look of her reel-and-real-life partner, Coco Martin, in the latest video released by CCM Film Productions across its social media platforms. The Prime Actress couldn’t hide her excitement over Coco’s transformation for their highly anticipated reunion project, “Coco Martin’s Sigabo.”
Julia related that she actually has long been telling Coco that longer hair suits him well. However, because of his endorsement commitments, growing his hair out had not always been possible. Thus, she’s thrilled that they are able to make it possible in the series.
In the teasers and behind-the-scenes photos and videos previously released online, Coco, “Ang Hari ng Aksyon sa Ating Henerasyon,” can be seen rocking shoulder-length hair—a striking departure from the appearances of his iconic characters in “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” and “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo.”
This behind-the-scenes video also offers an exclusive glimpse into Julia and Coco’s pictorials for the series’ official poster, which was finally unveiled on June 3 as the series is about to make its highly anticipated premiere this coming June 22. The shoot took place in the vibrant streets of Binondo, Manila, with legendary Filipino photographer Jun De Leon—whom Coco affectionately calls “Tatay”—capturing the promotional images.
READ: “Coco Martin’s Sigabo” unveils official poster, theme song
Asked how they feel about finally reuniting onscreen through “Sigabo,” Coco admitted that he is excited to work with Julia once again. Julia shares the same enthusiasm, though she confessed to feeling a bit nervous about working with him both as her co-actor and director.
Beyond working alongside the love of her life, Julia said she is eager for viewers to discover a completely different side of Coco—not only through his new appearance but also through the fresh story that “Sigabo” aims to tell. She is likewise looking forward to building rapport with their yet-to-be-announced castmates and fully immersing herself in her character.
Coco echoed her excitement, emphasizing the effort that went into making the project feel distinct from his previous teleseryes. He related, “Talagang pinagsumikapan namin na ibahin siya from ‘Probinsyano’ to ‘Batang Quiapo.’ Sabi ko nga, kahit ‘yong look ko, inaral namin. Syempre, almost one decade na araw-araw napapanood ako ng mga tao. [Kumbaga], paano namin siya iibahin?”
He added that when they had finished putting the story together, he felt confident that they finally had something genuinely new to offer audiences—one that is not only entertaining but also inspiring. “Sigabo”, according to Coco, is “very Pinoy” because apart from telling relatable stories of Filipinos, it seeks to rekindle values deeply rooted in our culture, such as respect for parents, deep devotion to God, love for family and others, and the determination to pursue one’s dreams despite life’s challenges.
Moreover, the actor-director also revealed that he has been heavily involved in nearly every aspect of the production. Aside from overseeing creative and promotional efforts, he personally composed the series’ official theme song and had Pop Rock Royalty Yeng Constantino sing it. As one of the driving forces behind the project, Coco remains committed to ensuring that every detail contributes to a rewarding viewing experience for Filipino audiences.
“Pinagtutulung-tulungan talaga ng buong ABS-CBN na makapaghandog ng mga magandang programa para sa lahat ng mga Pilipino. Nakaka-excite dahil napakaraming mga magagandang lalabas na mga show ng ABS-CBN. Kaya sana abangan ng lahat ng mga Pilipino,” Coco stated. Julia readily agreed, flashing two thumbs up in support.
After completing the action-themed shots of CocoJul—as what their tandem is called—along one of the streets in Binondo, Coco and Julia moved to their second shooting location at the Jones Bridge Esplanade for the romantic layouts. Julia looked regal in an elegant red one-shoulder maxi dress with a thigh-high slit, paired with matching red flats. Coco, meanwhile, embraced a rugged yet stylish aesthetic, wearing an olive-green jacket layered over a brown shirt, camouflage pants, and black tactical boots.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Pasig River and the iconic Binondo–Intramuros Bridge, the romantic layouts featured three distinct setups.
In the first, Coco presented Julia with a single-stem rose as they sat together by the esplanade. The second captured the pair locked in an intense gaze beneath an archway, both armed with guns, creating a compelling contrast between romance and suspense.
For the third and final scene, both stars changed into outfits that appeared to reflect their characters’ signature looks in the series. This time, the atmosphere turned more intimate as they slowly drew closer and shared a kiss for the camera. When the take ended, both Coco and Julia appeared visibly shy, bursting into laughter as the crew looked on.
Don’t miss the action-packed premiere of “Coco Martin’s Sigabo” this June 22 (Monday) at 8 PM on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, A2Z, Kapamilya Channel, iWant, and Kapamilya Online Live on ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube.
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From ‘masungit’ to meant-to-be: A timeline of how Coco Martin and Julia Montes’ love story started