Actor finds comfort reuniting with close friend in new comedy film after stepping back to focus on healing.
Actor-comedians Jerald Napoles and Pepe Herrera are reuniting on the big screen in Viva Films’ “Ang Pinakamasarap na Pares sa Balat ng Lupa,” following the success of their recent hit projects. The comedy highlights not only their onscreen chemistry but also their longtime friendship.
During the film’s media launch, Jerald revealed that Pepe had initially planned to take a break from acting to focus on his mental health. However, learning that they would be working together led him to reconsider.
“Supposedly, hindi daw muna tatanggap ng project si Pepe. Pero nung nalaman daw niya na ako ’yung isa sa mga makakasama niya, kasi according to him, it would be part of his pahinga,” Jerald recalled.
For Pepe, accepting the project did not mean ending his break, but finding comfort in working with people he trusts while continuing his healing journey.
“Kasi I was taking a break during that time for my mental health, and the best way to take a break for me is to stay in Mindoro, on top of the mountain kung saan kami nakatira,” Pepe shared.
He added that while he had already informed people he would be stepping away, ongoing therapy sessions helped him realize he was ready to take on the film.
“Nung time na ’to, I had a change of heart kasi nagpaalam na ako. Thankful ako sa Viva at sa Star Magic sa understanding nila, kasi very vocal naman ako about my mental health. Siguro hindi mahirap sa mga tao na isipin na, ‘Baka nahihirapan na naman si Pepe. Baka kailangan niya magpahinga.’ Pero nagkaroon ako ng change of heart kasi I have sessions with my therapists also.”
Their reunion reflects a friendship built on trust and support. Rather than feeling pressured to return, Pepe said working with a close friend made the project feel like a safe space.
The film also marks another collaboration following the success of Jerald’s “Love, Ngo” and Pepe’s “Home Along Da Riles: Da Reunion,” raising anticipation for their latest comedy.
Directed by Raynier F. Brizuela, “Ang Pinakamasarap na Pares sa Balat ng Lupa” follows Don (Pepe), whose world is turned upside down after learning he has only 24 hours left to live. Determined to make his final day count, he sets out to find the most delicious pares on Earth, a viral dish that reminds him of his late grandmother.
Joining him is his loyal best friend Mola (Jerald), as their search leads to a series of comedic misadventures and a corrupt doctor determined to steal Don’s healthy liver.
“Ang Pinakamasarap na Pares sa Balat ng Lupa” opens in cinemas nationwide on August 26.
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