LOOK: Coco Martin teams up with Erik Matti and Dondon Monteverde for ‘On the Job’ prequel and ‘Bonifacio’ movie
Cheers to an exciting development for Filipino cinema! ABS-CBN’s Primetime King Coco Martin, through his CCM Productions, is getting on a bold venture alongside highly-acclaimed director Erik Matti and seasoned producer Dondon Monteverde. The team is set to bring to life two epic films scheduled for release in 2026 and 2027. The projects “On the Job: Maghari” and “Maypagasa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio” will focus on historical and social themes.
@randomrepublika WOW! Three of the country's industry icons are teaming up for huge film projects On The Job: Maghari and May Pagasa: The Battles of Andres Bonifacio. Producer Dondon Monteverde, director Erik Matti, and actor-director-producer Coco Martin officially launched their partnership today at the Marco Polo in Ortigas. #CocoMartin #RealityEntertainment #CCMProductions ♬ original sound – randomrepublika
“On the Job: Maghari” acts as a prequel to the hit “On the Job” series, shedding light on the backstory of Tatang, or Mario Maghari, portrayed by Joel Torre in the original film. This installment aims to deepen the viewer’s understanding of the character’s roots and the social context that shaped him. Meanwhile, “Maypagasa” dives into the life of revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio, exploring his struggles, leadership, and the factors that led to his setbacks in the fight for independence.
The collaboration was officially announced on October 14, a moment Martin described as a dream come true. He shared his long-standing admiration for Matti’s works, particularly “On the Job” and “Buy Bust,” revealing that he had often hoped to collaborate with the acclaimed director. “Nag-aabang ako na sana, mapansin nila ako. Pero hindi nila ako tinatawagan. Dumating na sa pagkakataon na parang tingin ko sa sarili ko, ‘Baka hindi pa ‘ko enough?’ Siguro sa mata ko kaya ko makapag-action, or drama, makaarte ng konti, pero siguro kanya-kanyang panlasa eh, so baka sa panlasa nila Sir Dondon at Direk Erik, baka hindi pa ‘ko enough,” Martin candidly shared.
@randomrepublika 'BAKA HINDI PA AKO ENOUGH.' ABS-CBN's Primetime King #CocoMartin humbly shared how he has long wanted to work with director #ErikMatti and #DondonMonteverde and secretly wished to be tapped by them for a collaboration. At one point, he said that he even told himself, "Baka hindi pa ako enough." Fast forward to today, Coco's self-doubt has been debunked. He and his dream collaborators, two of the country's industry icons, officially launched their partnership for major film projects #OnTheJobMaghari and #MayPagAsaTheBattlesofAndresBonifacio ♬ original sound – randomrepublika
The start of this project traces back to a meeting arranged by Dondon Monteverde, following the first death anniversary of Lily Monteverde, the legendary matriarch of Regal Entertainment. When Dondon met Leah Calmerin at the event, he expressed his interest in working with Martin, who eagerly responded. During subsequent discussions, they exchanged creative ideas, with Martin expressing his passion for the projects, particularly emphasizing his admiration for “OTJ” and “Buy Bust.” The connection was undeniable, signaling the beginning of what promises to be groundbreaking Filipino cinema.
As the scripts have already been completed, the focus now shifts to production, which remains in the pre-filming stage. Martin revealed that their weekly meetings are integral to the development process, where ideas are constantly refined to ensure the films are not only impactful locally but also appealing to a global audience.
Budget considerations remain somewhat under wraps, although Monteverde hinted at elaborate wartime scenes, especially for the Bonifacio project. The casting details have been kept a secret to maintain an element of surprise, but Martin assured fans that they are assembling a fresh ensemble of stars. The intention is to craft a cast that audiences have never seen together before, elevating the films’ appeal and ensuring they stand out in Philippine cinema.
Director Erik Matti, acclaimed for his gritty action and social commentaries, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of storytelling that resonates with Filipino history and identity. Meanwhile, Monteverde highlighted that these projects will showcase not only compelling narratives but also state-of-the-art production values, further elevating the Philippines’ stature in international cinema.
These films aim to honor Philippine history and culture, inspiring national pride while also highlighting the artistry and talent within the industry. With Coco Martin, Erik Matti, and Dondon Monteverde leading the charge, Filipino audiences can look forward to output that is ambitious, authentic, and truly groundbreaking.
