Acclaimed Filipino Actor Albert Martinez Takes A Break

His role as Benicio in the hit teledrama Sa Piling Mo starring Piolo Pascual and Judy Ann Santos helped revive his career and introduced him to a whole new generation of TV viewers.

“But doing a drama can be emotionally draining, that's why I was relieved to get this role,” says Albert, who is back on TV, but this time as Juan, father of the title character Pedro, in Pedro Penduko, a multi-episode series that will air as part of Komiks on ABS-CBN this September.

It will be the first time that ABS-CBN is using the multi-episode story format to present the tale of classic komiks hero Pedro Penduko, one of the earliest and most beloved fantasy heroes in komiks history. Pedro was brought to life by Francisco V. Coching, considered the dean of Filipino illustrators and the father of Filipino komiks.

Albert says Pedro Penduko, which will star Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition housemate Matt Evans in the title role, is a good break for him with its adventure-action story.

Sa Piling Mo did a lot for him and was a big hit, but during its run, Albert found himself suffering from acting burnout.“That happens when you've been doing the same thing for a long time. You also develop bad habits in the sense that you tend to bring the intensity of emotions that are part of doing a drama home. It's so hard to let go of,” explains Albert.

This was exactly what made doing the character of Benicio so difficult.“Benicio was one of the most difficult characters I've ever had to play, because he is so passion and emotion-driven,” says Albert.“So this role in Pedro Penduko is like therapy for me.”

Albert has been married to his wife Liezl, daughter of 60s movie queen Amalia Fuentes, for 21 years. The couple has three kids. Their middle child and only son Alfonso is now in the US, pursuing a course in Computer Engineering at Stockton University in California.

What is the secret to their enduring marriage? Aside from regular weekly dates, says Albert,“it's about understanding, about responsibility and about friendship. We're best friends, Liezl and I.”

They will be celebrating their 25th anniversary a few years from now. Do they have any special plans? Like maybe a renewal of vows ceremony, like most couples do? Albert smiles and says that if there is any celebration going to take place, it will involve just the two of them.

MENAFN15072025000049011007ID1109802401