Kevin Durand recalls listening to Francis M growing up, sings ‘Mga Kababayan’

“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” star Kevin Durand looked proud as he sang Francis M’s hit song “Mga Kababayan,” saying he and his best friend—who was from Mindanao—grew up with the late Master Rapper’s music.

The Canadian actor said this during an interview with Filipino radio DJs Gino Quillamor and Chico Garcia, as seen in a clip on Quillamor’s Instagram page last May 6. Durand, who plays Proximus Caesar in the film, was with his co-star Peter Macon who portrays Raka.

“My best friend growing up moved from Mindanao… We grew up together and we would listen to Francis M,” Durand said, then went on to sing, “Mga kababayan ko, ako ay Pilipino.”

Quillamor then informed Durand of his friendship with the late singer’s children and the actor, in turn, asked him to relay a message for him. “Please tell them Proximus sends love.”

Speaking about the warmth of the Filipinos, Durand added: “Whenever I speak to people from the Philippines or people who live here but from the Philippines, it just feels so at home with you, guys. I wanna go to your mom’s house and eat some delicious food.”

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In the comments section, Francis’ wife and daughter, Pia and Saab Magalona, expressed their gratitude to Durand, who responded as well with well wishes.

Francis died in 2009 at the age of 44 due to leukemia. Aside from “Mga Kababayan,” his hit songs include “Kaleidoscope World,” “Mga Praning,” and “3 Stars & A Sun.”

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