John on Janice: We talk more freely now

John Estrada

I remember when I first met John Estrada on the set of “Palibhasa Lalake.” Back then, I already knew he would make it big in the biz. Even as a newbie, John had such a strong presence.

Through the years, we have become good friends. I enjoy our random Viber chats about Michael Jackson, whom we both idolize.

The former Kapamilya actor is now a Kapuso. He is part of the cast of Alden Richards’ “telefantasya,” “Victor Magtanggol,” where he portrays Loki, the god of deception.
It doesn’t matter what network John is in; an actor of his caliber will always stand out.

Here’s my chat with John:

What made you decide to transfer to GMA 7? I’ve had a longstanding offer from GMA 7, and I just felt that now is the best time for it, given the perfect project to make the move.

I also want to be with my daughter, Inah (de Belen), and hopefully work on a project with her soon. I’m not closing any doors to opportunity. If the right project will come along, why not?

What makes your Loki more challenging than the other roles you have portrayed? I’m excited about my role because I miss playing the villain, and Loki is no ordinary villain. He is larger than life, and I get to explore what’s needed to be done in order to deliver what’s expected of me.
I love the costume and the special makeup. Also, this is my first fantasy series.

What did you find out about Alden while working with him? I’ve heard nothing but good words even before I met him. He is humble amid all the adulation. And he’s passionate about his craft.

Do you think that the time will come for you and Janice de Belen to be friends, like she and Aga Muhlach are? My relationship with Janice has improved much through time. We talk more freely now. It’s easier to pick up the phone and talk to her. It’s more comfortable now. Time can do that.

What lessons have you learned from your first marriage that you’re applying to your second one (with former beauty queen Priscilla Meirelles)? Maintaining an open communication with your spouse is the key. You should be able to express your deepest thoughts to each other to avoid misunderstanding.

What’s your unsolicited advice to Jake Vargas, your daughter Inah’s boyfriend? Treat her like fine China and don’t ever hurt her.

Do you like Jake for Inah? My opinion of him is irrelevant, because the relationship is between him and Inah. As a parent, all I can do is guide my daughter through life.

When your daughter Anechka is old enough, what love advice will you give her? I have three older daughters and you’d think it gets easier. But, I will apply the same principle to Anechka as I did my other daughters: No boyfriend until you’re 30 (laughs)!

If your life story would be made into a movie, what would the title be? And who do you want to portray you? “Life & Its Complications,” with Ryan Gosling or Johnny Depp.

SuperwoMom

To commemorate my dear “SuperwoMom” Inday Badiday’s birthday, allow me to share one of her “Mommyisms”: Don’t keep track of what your competitors are doing. If you keep looking their way instead of your own path, you will lose focus. And if that happens, they could overtake you.