Ian Veneracion opens up about the emotional weight of starring in “Drug War: A Conspiracy of Silence,” a powerful new limited series tackling one of the most painful chapters in recent Philippine history.
“It’s the story of our people. It’s part of our history, and our humanity.”
Thus said Ian Veneracion as to why he felt compelled to be part of Shugo Praico’s si-episode limited series “Drug War: A Conspiracy of Silence” despite the challenges surrounding its production.
In the gripping new drama, Ian takes on the role of Fr. Tom, a priest who builds a rehabilitation program for young drug dependents living in an island community.
The actor admitted that stepping into the world of the series was both emotionally challenging and deeply meaningful for him.
“When I read the script, I didn’t know how we were going to do it because of schedule and stuff,” Ian recalled. “But I felt I really had to be part of this because we have to tell the story.”
Following the advance screening of the pilot episode at the Shangri-La Plaza Red Carpet Premiere Theater in Mandaluyong City, Ian shared why watching the series again brought back the emotional burden of portraying Fr. Tom.
“Ngayong napanood ko, bumabalik sa akin lahat ng emotions ni Fr. Tom,” he confessed. “As an actor, my job is to go through that life emotionally, at least. And now it brings back memories. So, parang mabigat pa din.”
Beyond its emotional impact, Ian also praised the series’ creative execution, particularly its cinematography, editing, and storytelling.
“Sobrang natutuwa ako sa cinematography, sa editing, sa storytelling ni Direk Shugo,” he shared. “Sana maraming makanood. Because kuwento natin ito, e. Tayo ito.”
Joining Ian and Harvey Bautista in the ensemble cast are John Arcilla, Lotlot de Leon, Jane Oineza, Romnick Sarmenta, Yayo Aguila, Ryan Eigenmann, Joem Bascon, and Gabby Padilla.
Ian clarified that the series does not aim to provide definitive answers about the country’s controversial drug war, but instead seeks to present different perspectives and encourage meaningful conversations.
“Our intention is to show perspectives,” he said. “There’s a long conversation about it that we have to have as individuals.”
He also expressed hope that international audiences will eventually get to watch the series and gain a deeper understanding of the realities, struggles, and complexities of Filipino society.
“Kasama dito ang kagandahang-asal nating mga Pilipino, at ang mga hindi rin magandang parts natin,” Ian explained. “And it raises a lot of questions also. And sabi nga ni Direk Shugo, ‘yon ang gusto natin, to have a conversation about it.”
Shugo echoed the same sentiment, emphasizing that the series is not meant to lecture viewers, but to inspire reflection and empathy through storytelling.
“What we hope is through the drama, ‘yong mga taong nakaka-relate sa kuwento can find answers within the series itself,” the director said.
“Drug War: A Conspiracy of Silence” is produced by Rein Entertainment coproduced by KC Global Media, which aims to open conversations about one of the most painful and divisive chapters in recent Philippine history.
The series is set to premiere soon on digital platforms, with its official release date yet to be announced.
Our intention is to show perspectives. There’s a long conversation about it that we have to have as individuals… Kasama dito ang kagandahang-asal nating mga Pilipino, at ang mga hindi rin magandang parts natin. And it raises a lot of questions also. And sabi nga ni Direk Shugo, ‘yon ang gusto natin, to have a conversation about it.
Ian Veneracion
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