Child star now has a love team

FRANCIS Magundayao

Francis Magundayao first appeared on television as a chubby, five-year-old kid in GMA 7’s 2005 series “Darna.”

He has since landed roles in various Kapuso and Kapamilya shows, but it was his recent stint as a young Piolo Pascual in the teleserye “Dahil Sa Pag-ibig” that made people notice.

Now 13, he has just signed a five-year contract with Star Magic, and is teamed up with 16-year-old Ella Cruz in “Aryana.”

“I’m used to doing child roles, so I definitely feel some pressure now that I’m in a love team,” Francis said at a recent press conference.

Before show biz, Francis’ dream was to become a football player. He said he used to cry whenever his mother took him to auditions.

“But I really enjoy it now; it’s very exciting!” said Francis, whose career goal now is to win an Oscar.

He also said he’d like to be reunited with Angel Locsin, whom he worked with in “Darna.” He described the actress as “professional, helpful and fun.”

He said he wanted to show Angel how much he had changed. “I’ve grown up, I’m skinnier, and my voice has become lower.”