Rocco Nacino on Lovi Poe: “We’ve both moved on and are happy”

The “Lakambini” actor looks back on the past, celebrates the present, and reflects on the film’s empowering message.

Before meeting the press for the promotion of “Lakambini: Gregoria de Jesús,” Rocco Nacino quietly hoped no one would bring up his past relationship with lead actress Lovi Poe. The two had dated briefly years ago, long before filming wrapped on the 12-year project directed by Arjanmar Rebeta and Jeffrey Jeturian.

Much has changed since then. Both actors are now happily married—Rocco to former volleyball player Melissa Gohing, with whom he has a three-year-old son, Ezren “EZ” Raffaello, and Lovi, who has just welcomed her first child with her husband, Monty Blencowe.

“Before the press con, I said I hope no one asks about our relationship,” Rocco admitted with a laugh. “But I’m very happy for her. We’ve moved on. I wouldn’t have known my wife if Lovi and I didn’t have our short story, right? We’re both happy for each other.”

He added that there were no awkward moments when they resumed filming. “We didn’t have scenes anymore. When we resumed, it was already with Elora [Españo]. Lovi and I also worked on her movie with Benjamin Alves before. I was a guest there, so we had already talked and were comfortable working again.”

A film twelve years in the making

“Lakambini: Gregoria de Jesús” tells the story of Ka Oriang, the wife of revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio who was also a key figure in the Katipunan. The film traces her journey from her youth to her years as Bonifacio’s partner and confidante, shedding light on her courage, leadership, and personal sacrifices during the Philippine Revolution.

The film uses a meta-docu-fiction format, combining dramatized sequences with documentary-style commentary and archival material. According to producer Ellen Ongkeko-Marfil of Pelikulove, this hybrid form provides audiences a more intimate understanding of Gregoria, not just as Bonifacio’s wife, but as a revolutionary in her own right.

After more than a decade of research, halted shoots, and restarts, “Lakambini” finally premiered nationwide on November 5, coinciding with the 150th birth anniversary of Gregoria de Jesús.

Stepping into the supremo’s shoes

For Rocco, being cast as Andres Bonifacio was both humbling and affirming. “It’s really a period film,” he said. “It used to be a blow to my self-esteem before na hindi ako mestizo, that’s why I won’t make it in showbiz. But there are projects like this. More than the projects, my experiences are very meaningful.”

Portraying Bonifacio helped him appreciate his Filipino identity and embrace the depth of the role. “The way we know Andres, he’s arrogant, he’s matapobre, and loud,” Rocco said. “Here, you see a different side of him. He’s also Gregoria’s partner. So we’ll understand more about his character—the softer side of Andres.”

The project also shifted Rocco’s own views on love and respect. “Andres loves Gregoria a lot. I think I’m that kind of person, too,” he shared. “I changed my view on women, especially my wife, because of this project. When she gave birth, I saw what women go through. It made me realize that it’s not only men who should move. Even back then, women were already empowered—and they could make waves.”

A timely message

After twelve years in the making, Rocco believes “Lakambini” could not have come at a better time. “Of course, it needs to be heard,” he said. “This is very timely. With everything that’s happening right now, a lot of us are afraid to voice out. This is what Ka Oriang really showed us—‘I’ll tell you what’s wrong.’ I hope we’re like that too.”

Rocco hopes the film will resonate especially with younger audiences. “My wish is for the youth to be touched by this. A lot of our youth feel entitled, weak, and timid. We need something like this to spark that. If only one or two people watch and get inspired—and become a Gregoria de Jesús in their own right—that would already be a big thing.”

As “Lakambini: Gregoria de Jesús” continues its theatrical run, Rocco said he carries with him the lessons of both Bonifacio and Gregoria—two revolutionaries who loved fiercely, fought bravely, and continue to inspire generations to find their own voice.

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