Why Dylan Menor calls himself a ‘rookie on and off the screen.’
Dylan Menor, who is stepping into the shoes of a rookie cop in the 1960s crime-drama “Manila’s Finest,” is also navigating the thrilling world of acting as a real-life rookie.
Sharing the set with heavyweights Piolo Pascual and Enrique Gil, Dylan admits the first days were nerve-wracking. “They’re super kind and professional. They made sure I felt comfortable, and they give tips when we’re in a scene,” he told radar Entertainment during a visit to the Potrero, Malabon set.
Piolo’s advice stuck: “Observe your surroundings.” Dylan explained, “He said, ‘Bro, just look at the people, the uniforms, be present.’ Imagine being really part of the scene—even when you have no lines. That mindset helps a lot.”
Nerves? Totally normal. “Working with seasoned artists is intimidating, but when it’s game time—pag action na—you have to switch on, be present, and react quickly,” Dylan said.
Preparation is key. “Learn your lines, know your character, and observe the people around you. That keeps you confident and in the moment,” he added.
As Patrolman Efren Taguyonon, Dylan faces the challenges of a rookie on the job, guided by Piolo’s Lt. Homer Magtibay. “Efren thought we’d just punch people and play with guns, but there’s corruption, politics, and real conflict. It’s a unique setting—and that’s the challenge I love,” Dylan said.
Beyond “Manila’s Finest,” Dylan is keeping busy with a packed slate of projects. He’s been part of MQuest Ventures’ microdramas titled “Father’s Last Wish,” and “ A Cure Called Love,” and can be seen bringing the energy in “Vibe Up” on Saturdays and Sundays. On top of that, he just dropped his debut single, “Maghapon,” under Universal Records.
“It feels overwhelming. I honestly don’t know how I manage it all,” Dylan admitted. “But when there’s an opportunity, I make sure to make the most of it. For example, if I have a ‘Vibe Up’ performance, I prepare a few days before. That way, when I hit rehearsal or go on the show, I’m ready.”
Preparation, he said, applies across the board—movies, TV series, music. “Study the script, look for references that inspire you, and then apply it to your work. That’s how I approach every project,” he said.
It’s been a whirlwind, and Dylan doesn’t hide it. “To be honest, this is the busiest and most blessed year I’ve ever had. I’m so thankful to everyone who trusted me. Honestly, I couldn’t see their vision for me, but they did,” said Dylan who joined TV5 via MediaQuest Artists Agency in mid-2025.
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“Now it’s my responsibility to give my best, always. I just want to make people happy and inspired. That’s the goal. That’s the purpose,” he declared.
“Manila’s Finest,” directed by Raymond Red, also features Ashtine Olviga, Rica Peralejo, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Rico Blanco, Romnick Sarmenta, Ariel Rivera, and Joey Marquez. This entry to the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival is coproduced by MQuest Ventures and Cignal TV.
Working with seasoned artists is intimidating, but when it’s game time… you have to switch on, be present, and react quickly.
Dylan Menor
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